Few authors have left a legacy as powerful and enduring as Charles Dickens. Born in 1812, Dickens rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most celebrated storytellers in literary history. His genius gave the world unforgettable characters like Oliver Twist, Ebenezer Scrooge, and Pip—and his novels continue to capture hearts and minds nearly two centuries later.
What makes Dickens truly remarkable isn’t just the volume of his work—15 novels, five novellas, countless short stories, and nonfiction pieces—but his unwavering commitment to social justice. With little formal education, he used his voice to champion the poor, the voiceless, and especially children, pushing for educational reform and human dignity in an era of stark inequality.
Through works like A Christmas Carol, Great Expectations, and Bleak House, Dickens illuminated the struggles and hopes of Victorian England—many of which still echo today. His blend of wit, empathy, and sharp social critique made him not only a literary giant, but also a moral compass for generations.
Here are some of the most famous Charles Dickens quotes and saying that explores his views regarding life, love, and many more.
Fun fact: Dickens’s novels have never gone out of print!
Table of Contents
- Famous Charles Dickens Quotes
- Charles Dickens Quotes on Life and Human Nature
- Charles Dickens Quotes on Kindness and Compassion
- Charles Dickens Quotes on Hope and Optimism
- Charles Dickens Quotes on Poverty and Social Justice
- Charles Dickens Quotes on Love and Family
- Charles Dickens Quotes on Success and Ambition
- The Lasting Power of Dickens
Famous Charles Dickens Quotes
These are Dickens’s most iconic and widely recognized quotes. Each is directly sourced from his major novels and still resonates with readers worldwide.
“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times…”
— A Tale of Two Cities (1859, Opening line)
This legendary opening captures the contradictions of an era—and life itself.
“Please, sir, I want some more.”
— Oliver Twist (1837, Spoken by Oliver in the novel)
Oliver’s simple request became a symbol of innocence, courage, and the desire for a better life.
“God bless us, every one!”
— A Christmas Carol (1843, Spoken by Tiny Tim in the novella)
A heartfelt plea for compassion and goodwill that endures to this day.
“We forge the chains we wear in life.”
— A Christmas Carol (1843, Said by Jacob Marley’s ghost in the novella)
A metaphor for personal responsibility and the consequences of our actions.
“No one is useless in this world who lightens the burden of it for anyone else.”
— Our Mutual Friend (1865, Spoken by John Harmon in the novel)
Dickens’s powerful reminder of the value of even the smallest acts of kindness.
Charles Dickens Quotes on Life and Human Nature
Dickens’s work is filled with keen insights about human nature—its potential for good, its flaws, and the importance of choices.
“There is nothing in the world so irresistibly contagious as laughter and good humor.”
— A Christmas Carol (1843, Narration in the novella)
Dickens believed in the power of positivity and shared joy.
“Reflect upon your present blessings—of which every man has many—not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have some.”
— Sketches by Boz (1836, Essay collection)
A gentle nudge to practice gratitude, no matter your circumstances.
“Take nothing on its looks; take everything on evidence. There’s no better rule.”
— Great Expectations (1861, Advice from Mr. Jaggers in the novel)
A call for clear-eyed judgment and discernment.
Charles Dickens Quotes on Kindness and Compassion
Many of Dickens’s characters are models of empathy and selflessness, and his writing encourages us to live with open hearts.
“A loving heart is the truest wisdom.”
— David Copperfield (1850, Spoken by Mr. Peggotty in the novel)
Dickens emphasizes that love—not intellect or wealth—is true wisdom.
“Have a heart that never hardens, and a temper that never tires, and a touch that never hurts.”
— Our Mutual Friend (1865, Narration in the novel)
A timeless recipe for gentle and compassionate living.
“Charity begins at home, and justice begins next door.”
— Martin Chuzzlewit (1844, Spoken by Tom Pinch in the novel)
A call to care for both our loved ones and our communities.
Charles Dickens Quotes on Hope and Optimism
No matter the hardships faced by his characters, Dickens always left room for hope, redemption, and new beginnings.
“The sun himself is weak when he first rises, and gathers strength and courage as the day gets on.”
— The Old Curiosity Shop (1841, Narration in the novel)
A metaphor for perseverance and the growth of hope.
“Never close your lips to those to whom you have already opened your heart.”
— Nicholas Nickleby (1839, Spoken by Mrs. Nickleby in the novel)
A gentle reminder to nurture important relationships.
“I hope that real love and truth are stronger in the end than any evil or misfortune in the world.”
— David Copperfield (1850, Narration in the novel)
Dickens’s enduring faith in goodness and honesty.
Charles Dickens Quotes on Poverty and Social Justice
A champion for the poor, Dickens used his novels to shine a light on injustice, poverty, and the need for reform.
“The civility which money will purchase, is rarely extended to those who have none.”
— Oliver Twist (1837, Narration in the novel)
A sharp critique of the way society treats the less fortunate.
“A day wasted on others is not wasted on one’s self.”
— A Tale of Two Cities (1859, Spoken by Sydney Carton in the novel)
Service to others, Dickens suggests, gives life meaning.
“No one is useless in this world who lightens the burden of it for anyone else.”
— Our Mutual Friend (1865, Spoken by John Harmon in the novel)
Repeated here as it perfectly expresses Dickens’s social mission.
Charles Dickens Quotes on Love and Family
Dickens’s novels often center on the importance of love, loyalty, and the bonds of family—chosen or by blood.
“There can be no disparity in marriage like unsuitability of mind and purpose.”
— David Copperfield (1850, Narration in the novel)
A reflection on the foundations of lasting relationships.
“Trifles make the sum of life.”
— David Copperfield (1850, Narration in the novel)
Dickens honors the small, daily moments that bind families together.
“Never close your lips to those to whom you have already opened your heart.”
— Nicholas Nickleby (1839, Spoken by Mrs. Nickleby in the novel)
A second mention here for its resonance with family bonds.
Charles Dickens Quotes on Success and Ambition
From humble beginnings, Dickens became one of the most successful writers of his age. His advice on perseverance and ambition rings true.
“Whatever I have tried to do in life, I have tried with all my heart to do it well.”
— David Copperfield (1850, Narration in the novel)
Wholehearted effort, Dickens shows, leads to true accomplishment.
“Procrastination is the thief of time, collar him.”
— David Copperfield (1850, Spoken by Mr. Micawber in the novel)
A memorable warning against putting off what must be done.
The Lasting Power of Dickens
Charles Dickens’s words have inspired, comforted, and awakened generations. Through sharp wit, empathy, and a keen eye for justice, he reminds us that hope and kindness are never out of fashion. Whether you’re seeking motivation, a moral compass, or simply great storytelling, Dickens’s quotes remain a wellspring of wisdom for every age.
