Quote of the day: “Those who don’t believe in magic will never find it.”
Roald Dahl is widely regarded as one of the most influential storytellers of the 20th century. His works, including Matilda, Fantastic Mr Fox, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and The BFG, have sold over 250 million copies worldwide and been translated into over 50 languages.
Born in Llandaff, Wales, Dahl was named after the Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen. He served as a fighter pilot during World War II and later worked in intelligence before becoming a full-time writer.
His writing is characterized by humor, dark undertones and inventive language – coining terms such as “Oompa-Loompas”, “snozzcumbers” and “scrumdiddlyumptious”. In addition to literature, Dahl contributed to the development of the Wade-Dahl-Till valve, a medical device created after his son suffered a severe head injury.
The quote underscores a recurring theme in Dahl’s work — the importance of imagination and faith. Although this idea is couched in “magic,” it goes beyond fantasy. It points to a way of thinking that values curiosity, openness and the ability to see possibilities for granted.
In Dahl’s stories, characters who embrace imagination often find solutions or opportunities, while those who reject it are left behind. The quote suggests that perception plays a key role in shaping experience – what one chooses to believe affects what one is able to see or achieve.
In the current context, the idea of ”magic” can be interpreted as creativity, innovation or optimism. Whether it’s education, storytelling or problem solving, the willingness to think differently remains critical.
Dahl’s own life reflects this principle. A childhood experience tasting chocolate at school later inspired Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, showing how ordinary moments can develop into lasting ideas when viewed through the lens of imagination.
Legacy and recognition
Dahl’s contributions go beyond books. His short story collections, including Tales of the Unexpected, have won awards such as the Edgar Allan Poe Awards. He has also won awards including the Whitbread Children’s Book Award and the World Fantasy Lifetime Achievement Award.
His legacy is remembered around the world – from the naming of asteroid 6223 Dahl to the establishment of the Roald Dahl Museum in Great Missenden. The anniversary of his birth, September 13, is celebrated as Roald Dahl Day in several countries.
Takeaway
A quote by Roald Dahl highlights a simple but enduring idea: belief shapes discovery. Whether it’s creativity, ambition, or everyday life, the willingness to see beyond the ordinary often determines what one ends up finding.
