November stands as autumn’s grand finale—a month that whispers of transformation, gratitude, and quiet reflection. November has inspired countless cultural voices. It draws inspiration from the rustling of fallen leaves and the commemoration of historical moments. This collection features carefully curated quotes. They capture the essence of this remarkable month. Each quote is presented with the story behind the words.
Autumn & Seasonal Transformation
1. “November comes and November goes, with the last red berries and the first white snows.”
— Clyde Watson
American children’s author Clyde Watson penned this simple yet evocative line that captures November’s transitional nature. Watson, known for her collaboration with illustrator Wenzel Watson, created works that celebrated seasonal rhythms. This quote has become a staple in elementary education, teaching children about seasonal observation and the beauty of natural cycles.
2. “November is the most disagreeable month in the whole year.”
— Louisa May Alcott
This quote from Little Women reflects the protagonist Jo March’s sentiment. It sparked debate among readers about whether Alcott herself held this view. This perspective on November was written during the Civil War era. It reflected the harsh realities of New England winters and the emotional weight of the season. The quote has been both criticized and celebrated for its honest portrayal of seasonal depression.
3. “The morns are meeker than they were, the nuts are getting brown; the berry’s cheek is plumper, the rose is out of town.”
— Emily Dickinson
Dickinson’s keen observation of November’s subtle changes demonstrates her mastery of natural imagery. Written in the 1860s, this quote showcases her ability to find profound meaning in simple seasonal shifts. Literary scholars have praised this work for its innovative approach to describing autumn’s progression, influencing generations of nature poets.
4. “November’s sky is chill and drear, November’s leaf is red and sear.”
— Sir Walter Scott
The Scottish novelist and poet captured November’s dual nature—both beautiful and melancholic. Scott’s romantic period writing style influenced how English-speaking cultures view autumn. This quote from his longer work has been referenced in countless seasonal anthologies. It remains a touchstone for understanding 19th-century romantic literature’s approach to nature.
5. “In November, the earth is growing quiet. It is making its bed, a winter bed for flowers and small creatures.”
— Cynthia Rylant
Contemporary children’s author Rylant brings a gentle, nurturing perspective to November’s preparation for winter. Her quote has been widely used in environmental education programs, helping children understand seasonal cycles with empathy rather than fear. Rylant’s approach has influenced modern nature writing for young audiences.
6. “November is auspicious in so many parts of the country: the rice harvest is already in, the weather starts to cool, and the festive glow which precedes winter begins to brighten the landscape.”
— Elizabeth George
Mystery novelist George offers a global perspective on November, acknowledging agricultural cycles beyond Western experiences. This quote has been praised for its inclusive view of seasonal celebration, though some critics argue it romanticizes agricultural labor. Her perspective has influenced contemporary discussions about seasonal awareness in literature.
7. “The leaves fall, the wind blows, and the farm country slowly changes from the summer cottons into its winter wools.”
— Henry Beston
Naturalist writer Beston’s metaphorical language transforms November’s changes into a clothing metaphor. His work The Outermost House influenced the environmental movement. This particular quote has been cited in discussions about sustainable living and seasonal adaptation. Beston’s poetic approach to natural observation continues to inspire environmental writers.
8. “November always seemed to me the Norway of the year.”
— Emily Dickinson
Another gem from Dickinson, this metaphorical comparison has puzzled and delighted literary scholars for decades. Some interpret it as referring to Norway’s stark beauty and harsh climate. Others see it as a reference to the country’s long nights. The quote has sparked academic papers exploring Dickinson’s geographical metaphors and her understanding of international climates.
9. “November is the month to remind us to be thankful for the many positive things happening in our life.”
— Catherine Pulsifer
Contemporary motivational author Pulsifer connects November directly to gratitude practices. Some critics dismiss this as overly simplistic. However, the quote has been widely adopted in self-help circles. It is also popular in gratitude journaling communities. It represents a modern American approach to finding meaning in seasonal transitions.
10. “The bare branches of November are beautiful in their own right.”
— Terri Guillemets
Quote compiler and writer Guillemets offers a perspective that challenges conventional notions of nature’s beauty. This quote has been embraced by minimalist movements and those advocating for finding beauty in simplicity. It represents a shift toward appreciating nature’s austere phases rather than only its abundant ones.
Historical Events & Commemorations
11. “Remember, remember the fifth of November, gunpowder treason and plot.”
— Traditional English Rhyme
This famous rhyme commemorating Guy Fawkes Night has endured for over 400 years. It is one of the most recognized historical quotes about November. The Gunpowder Plot of 1605 attempted to blow up Parliament, and this rhyme has kept the memory alive through centuries. Modern interpretations range from historical remembrance to symbols of resistance. They were notably popularized by the graphic novel and film V for Vendetta.
12. “Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent a new nation.”
— Abraham Lincoln, Gettysburg Address (November 19, 1863)
Lincoln’s opening words from the Gettysburg Address are among the most significant speeches in American history. They were delivered on a November day that redefined the Civil War’s purpose. The speech’s brevity—just 272 words—contrasted sharply with the two-hour oration that preceded it, yet Lincoln’s words endured. This quote has been memorized by generations of American students and continues to influence political rhetoric worldwide.
13. “The world must be made safe for democracy.”
— Woodrow Wilson (addressing Congress, November 1917)
Wilson’s words, spoken as America deepened its involvement in World War I, became a defining statement of American foreign policy. The quote has been both praised as idealistic and criticized as imperialistic, sparking debates about American interventionism that continue today. Historians note this speech’s influence on the formation of the League of Nations and modern international relations.
14. “Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!”
— Ronald Reagan (though delivered in June, commemorated each November)
Reagan spoke these words in June 1987. They’re often remembered during November commemorations of the Berlin Wall’s fall on November 9, 1989. The quote became symbolic of the Cold War’s end and has been analyzed for its rhetorical power and political impact. Some historians debate whether Reagan’s words directly influenced the wall’s destruction, while others see them as perfectly timed political theater.
15. “I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed.”
— Martin Luther King Jr. (often commemorated in November educational programs)
Though delivered in August 1963, King’s words are frequently studied during November as part of American History Month programs. The quote’s enduring power lies in its combination of criticism and hope, challenging America while affirming its potential. Educational controversies have emerged over teaching the context of this quote. Debates arise over whether to present both King’s radical critiques and his optimistic vision.
16. “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.”
— Franklin D. Roosevelt (often studied during November historical retrospectives)
FDR’s inaugural words from March 1933 are frequently examined during November’s historical reflection periods. The quote’s psychological insight into economic depression resonated beyond its immediate context, becoming a touchstone for facing various national crises. Modern politicians regularly reference this quote, though historians debate whether FDR’s optimism matched the harsh realities facing Americans in 1933.
17. “Thanksgiving is a time of togetherness and gratitude.”
— Nigel Hamilton
Biographer Hamilton’s observation about Thanksgiving captures the holiday’s intended spirit while acknowledging its complex history. This quote has been used in discussions about American holiday traditions. Critics note that it oversimplifies Thanksgiving’s problematic origins regarding Native American relations. The quote represents ongoing tensions between celebrating gratitude and acknowledging historical injustices.
18. “November is Native American Heritage Month, a time to honor the rich cultures and contributions of Native peoples.”
— National Congress of American Indians
This institutional quote represents efforts to reframe November’s historical narrative beyond traditional Thanksgiving stories. The designation of November as Native American Heritage Month has sparked important conversations about historical accuracy and cultural representation. Some critics argue it’s insufficient compensation for centuries of marginalization, while supporters see it as an important step toward recognition.
19. “In November 1620, the Mayflower landed, beginning a story of survival, conflict, and cultural exchange.”
— David McCullough
Historian McCullough’s nuanced framing of the Mayflower landing acknowledges both the Pilgrims’ achievement and the complex consequences for Native Americans. This quote reflects modern historical scholarship’s attempt to present balanced narratives. It has been praised for avoiding both romanticization and excessive condemnation, though some argue it still centers European perspectives.
20. “November 11th reminds us that freedom isn’t free.”
— Veterans Day Proclamation
This common Veterans Day sentiment has become a standard phrase in American political discourse. While widely accepted as honoring military service, some critics argue it oversimplifies complex geopolitical issues. They also believe it can be used to justify questionable military interventions. The quote’s power lies in its emotional appeal, though historians note the importance of examining each conflict’s specific context.
Thanksgiving & Gratitude
21. “Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues but the parent of all others.”
— Cicero
The Roman philosopher’s words, though ancient, perfectly capture Thanksgiving’s spiritual essence. Cicero’s influence on Western thought makes this quote particularly significant during November’s gratitude season. Modern psychologists have validated Cicero’s insight, with research showing gratitude’s positive effects on mental health and relationships. The quote has been adopted by both religious and secular Thanksgiving celebrations.
22. “Thanksgiving is a time of quiet reflection upon the past and an annual reminder that God has, again and again, blessed what we call America.”
— John F. Kennedy
President Kennedy’s 1962 Thanksgiving proclamation reflects mid-20th century American civil religion, blending patriotism with spirituality. The quote has been both celebrated for its unifying message and criticized for its assumption of divine favor for America. Modern discussions about this quote often focus on questions of American exceptionalism and religious language in public discourse.
23. “We must find time to stop and thank the people who make a difference in our lives.”
— John F. Kennedy
Another Kennedy quote that has become synonymous with Thanksgiving gratitude practices. This sentiment has influenced modern gratitude movements and social media campaigns encouraging people to express appreciation. Critics note that Kennedy’s complex personal relationships somewhat contradict this idealistic message, while supporters argue the quote’s value transcends its speaker’s personal failings.
24. “Thanksgiving dinners take eighteen hours to prepare. They are consumed in twelve minutes. Half-times take twelve minutes. This is not coincidence.”
— Erma Bombeck
Humorist Bombeck’s observation about Thanksgiving’s practical realities resonated with millions of American families. Her quote captures the absurdity of elaborate holiday preparations and has become a staple of Thanksgiving humor. The quote’s enduring popularity reflects its honest portrayal of domestic life. Some critics argue it reinforces gender stereotypes about women’s holiday labor.
25. “Thanksgiving is so called because we are all so thankful that it only comes once a year.”
— P.J. O’Rourke
Satirist O’Rourke’s cynical take on Thanksgiving has appealed to those who find the holiday stressful or artificial. The quote reflects American ambivalence about mandatory family gatherings and commercialized holidays. While some appreciate its honesty about family dynamics, others argue it undermines genuine gratitude practices and holiday traditions.
26. “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.”
— John F. Kennedy
This Kennedy quote challenges superficial gratitude expressions, calling for authentic action. It has been widely quoted in sermons, speeches, and self-help literature, emphasizing the connection between gratitude and ethical behavior. The quote’s emphasis on action over words has made it popular in social justice circles. Some question whether Kennedy’s own actions always matched his rhetoric.
27. “Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.”
— Melody Beattie
Recovery counselor Beattie’s quote has become central to addiction recovery programs and mental health practices. Her work connecting gratitude to psychological healing has influenced therapeutic approaches to trauma and depression. The quote’s three-part structure (past, present, future) has made it particularly memorable and useful for meditation practices.
28. “The unthankful heart discovers no mercies; but the thankful heart will find, in every hour, some heavenly blessings.”
— Henry Ward Beecher
The 19th-century preacher’s words reflect Protestant theology’s emphasis on gratitude as a spiritual discipline. Beecher was a controversial figure—an abolitionist who faced personal scandals—making this quote complex in its historical context. Modern spiritual writers continue to reference this quote, though some note the tension between Beecher’s public message and private struggles.
29. “Thanksgiving is a joyous invitation to shower the world with love and gratitude.”
— Amy Leigh Mercree
Contemporary spiritual author Mercree’s quote represents modern New Age approaches to Thanksgiving, emphasizing universal love over traditional religious frameworks. The quote has been popular on social media. It is popular in mindfulness communities. However, critics argue it lacks the historical and cultural specificity that makes Thanksgiving meaningful to many Americans.
30. “We gather on this day to be thankful for what we have, for the family we love, the friends we cherish, and for the blessings that will come.”
— Catherine Pulsifer
Pulsifer’s inclusive language attempts to embrace various family structures and belief systems during Thanksgiving. The quote’s popularity in diverse communities reflects changing American demographics and values. Some traditional voices argue it dilutes Thanksgiving’s historical and religious significance, while others appreciate its welcoming tone.
Literary Reflections
31. “November is the most disagreeable month in the whole year,” said Margaret, standing at the window. “Yes, nearly always,” said her grandmother.”
— Elizabeth Gaskell, North and South
Victorian novelist Gaskell’s dialogue captures the common sentiment about November while showing generational continuity in seasonal perception. The quote reflects 19th-century British attitudes toward weather and mood, influencing later literary treatments of seasonal affective experiences. Modern readers often relate to this sentiment, making it relevant across centuries.
32. “It was November—the month of crimson sunsets, parting birds, deep, sad hymns of the sea, passionate wind-songs in the pines.”
— L.M. Montgomery, Anne of Green Gables
Montgomery’s poetic description of November showcases her mastery of natural imagery and emotional landscape. This quote has influenced countless writers’ approaches to seasonal description, particularly in children’s and young adult literature. The quote’s romantic language has been both praised for its beauty and criticized for potentially unrealistic nature portrayal.
