Al Purdy Quotes | Beyond Motive

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A literary icon in Canadian poetry, Al Purdy captured the spirit of the nation through raw, evocative verse. His poems, often inspired by the rugged landscapes and everyday life, resonated deeply with readers. Despite early struggles, he remained dedicated to his craft, ultimately becoming one of Canada's most celebrated poets. Purdy's legacy proves that persistence and passion can turn an unpolished voice into a national treasure, inspiring writers to embrace authenticity in their storytelling.

"I don't think I do have a soul."

"In my own mind, I was sort of a desperate kid."

"I was desperately unhappy trying to adjust to the world."

Life, Trying, World

"I'm not religious in any formal sense, not in any God sense."

God, Religious, Sense

"I started writing when I was about thirteen."

"For me, the vast marvel is to be alive. For man, or for flowers or beast or bird, the supreme triumph is to be most vividly and perfectly alive."

"At a certain age you're always uncertain how other people will take you."

Age, People, Will

"'A collected poems' is either a gravestone or a testimonial to survival."

Survival, Poems

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