Thought today I would do a book-ish post since I’ve been slacking on it lately. I’m still working my way through Us Against Them by Fredrik Bachman. While it may seem that I’m not enjoying it, I think it’s more of a case that I’m in a bit of a reading slump, which happens from time to time.
One thing this book has given me are some great quotes and caused me to create yet another book list of sorts – quotes that really stand out for me. And I’m writing them down because my brain can’t hold them all 😫.
However, today there are two quotes from a different author that I want to share that have stayed with me ever since I read them low those many years ago (reinforced by the movie) and they come from the same novella – The Body by Stephen King, originally published in Different Seasons and subsequently as a stand-alone novel.
For those of you who aren’t familiar the novella might recognize it by its movie title, Stand By Me starring the late River Phoenix, Wil Wheaton, Corey Feldman and Jerry O’Connell.
The story, while fictional, was inspired by various memories from King’s childhood. And it is a story that is so hauntingly beautiful that I would rank it in one of my top ten favorites of King’s work. I encourage you to read it and watch the movie as it is one of the best adaptations of his work.
Back to the quotes. The first quote that is often referenced is the last line in the movie. Interestingly enough, although it is in the book, it is not last line in the novel.
“I never had any friends later on like the ones I had when I was twelve. Jesus, does anyone?”
The Body by Stephen King
I think it is quoted often as it resonates for so many people for different reasons. For me, it’s about the amazing, yet simple times I had with each of my two best friends – both of whom are still in my life. And while I marvel at the passage of time since those days (40 years -eek 😬), those memories, and the friends attached to them, will stay with me forever.
Which leads me to the second quote that I would say has haunts me from time to time and one that I always forget the part after the comma 🤦♀️.
“Friends come in and out of your life like busboys in a restaurant, did you ever notice that?”
The Body by Stephen King
Having lived a slightly nomadic life (during my life, I have lived in 7 different states – more than most less than others), I have had met many people and made great friends along the way, some who are still in my life, many who are not. While I’ve reconnected with some (thanks technology 😁) I think the rest are more of the friends who come into your life for a season versus a reason. And I have learned to be ok with that.
But every so often, memories of a former friend will pop into my brain and I think of this quote. And realize that sometimes it sucks.
Your turn to share – what quotes (from books) have stayed with you? I would love to hear them.
My Lemons My Lemonade 