8 inspiring quotes by R.K. Narayan for students

Surarika Das Apr 29, 2025

Lessons from the author

One of India's best storytellers, R.K. Narayan had a straightforward but impactful outlook on life. His writings provide ageless guidance on education, development, and maintaining one's sense of self. These quotes will motivate you to grow as a person and as a student. Image Source: Canva

“You become a writer by writing. It is a yoga.”

Writing is a daily discipline and self-discovery exercise, much like yoga. Your voice gets stronger and your concepts get clearer the more you write. It's more important to come up regularly and develop word for word than it is to be flawless. Image Source: Canva

“Do you realise how few ever really understand …. they are in their circumstances?”

This quote reminds us that many people don’t take time to appreciate what they already have — like access to education, safety, or a supportive family. As students, it's easy to focus on what we lack or wish for, but recognizing our privileges helps build gratitude and empathy Image Source: Canva

“If you threw a stone into a gutter, it would only spurt filth in your face.”

This quote teaches an important life lesson: reacting to negativity or engaging with toxic people often brings harm back to you. Just like disturbing a dirty gutter splashes filth, arguing with someone who thrives on negativity only spreads more of it. Image Source: Canva

“It seems to me that we generally do not have a correct measure of our own wisdom.”

According to this saying, the majority of individuals are unaware of their true level of wisdom. It serves as a reminder to students to maintain their humility, and commitment to studying because real knowledge stems from realizing how much more they still need to learn. Image Source: Canva

“Life is about making right things and going on…”

This implies that living is about doing the right thing and going on, even after making mistakes, rather than about being flawless. It serves as a reminder to pupils that what really develops character and success is taking lessons from mistakes and moving on with confidence. Image Source: Canva

“No one ever accepts criticism so cheerfully. Neither the man who utters … it.”

According to this saying, although people frequently claim to be receptive to criticism, it is rarely simple or agreeable to offer or receive it. Even though it may not feel good at first, it serves as a reminder to students to take criticism seriously, and utilize it to improve. Image Source: Canva

“It is stimulating to live in a society that…. is free from monotony.”

According to this remark, when individuals, cultures, and ideas are varied and not all the same or robotic, life becomes more exciting and meaningful. A diverse world encourages education, creativity, and a broader comprehension of the universe. Image Source: Canva

"You must be prepared to face life, but you must never give up."

Exams, failures, and stress are all part of life, and students should be prepared to confront them head-on with confidence, this quote advises them. Being ready requires perseverance, hard work, and self-belief. The most crucial thing is to never give up, no matter how difficult things become. Image Source: Canva

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