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Quote by Steven Galloway

“Because civilization isn't a thing that you build and then there it is, you have it forever. It needs to be built constantly, recreated daily. It vanishes far more quickly than he ever would have thought possible. And if he wishes to live, he must do what he can to prevent the world he wants to live in from fading away. As long as there's war, life is a preventative measure.”

Quote by Steven Galloway

Work

The Cellist of Sarajevo

This narrative follows the story of a cellist who performs daily in the ruins of Sarajevo, Bosnia, during the war. The novel explores themes of courage, love, and the enduring power of art amidst the chaos of conflict. more

Author

Steven Galloway
Steven Galloway

Steven Galloway is a Canadian novelist born on July 13, 1975. He is best known for his internationally acclaimed novel "The Cellist of Sarajevo" (2008), which has been translated into over twenty languages. His other works include "The Daughter of the Sea," "The Sailor," and "The Ruins." Galloway previously served as director of the Creative Writing Program at the University of British Columbia and has taught at several universities. He currently lives in Vancouver, focusing on literary writing. more

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“This is our one and only chance at mortal life-here and now. The longer we live, the greater is our realization that it is brief. Opportunities come, and then they are gone. I believe that among the greatest lessons we are to learn in this short sojourn upon the earth are lessons that help us distinguish between what is important and what is not. I plead with you not to let those most important things pass you by. As you plan for that illusive, nonexistent future when you will have time to do all that you want to do. Instead, find you in the journey now.”

“What are you thinking?" he asks. I know Gage hates it when I cry - he is completely undone by the sight of tears - so I blink hard against the sting. "I'm thinking how thankful I am for everything," I say, "even the bad stuff. Every sleepless night, every second of being lonely, every time the car broke down, every wad of gum on my shoe, every late bill and losing lottery ticket and bruise and broken dish and piece of burnt toast." His voice is soft. "Why, darlin'?" "Because it all led me here to you.”