This was a matter of some small group of guerrillas in some distant caves, a primitive, fanatical, and desperate people who didn't have the resources to intimidate the United States.

— Isabel Allende

Until a few months ago we had a code of honor, and even the worst ruffians behaved with decency. You could leave your gold in a tent with no guard and no one would touch it, but now all that has changed. The law of the jungle rules, the only ideology is greed. Don't let yourself be parted from your weapons, and always travel in pairs or groups, because this is a land of thieves.

— Isabel Allende

We don't even know how strong we are until we are forced to bring that hidden strength forward. In times of tragedy, of war, of necessity, people do amazing things. The human capacity for survival and renewal is awesome.

— Isabel Allende

We only have what we give.

— Isabel Allende

What I fear most is power with impunity. I fear abuse of power, and the power to abuse.

— Isabel Allende

Wishes and fears are illusions, DIL Broader, not realities. You must practice detachment.

— Isabel Allende

Women have always been courageous... They are always fearless when protecting their children and in the last century they have been fearless in the fight for their rights.

— Isabel Allende

Write what should not be forgotten.

— Isabel Allende

Write with honesty and don't worry about the feelings of others, because no matter what you say, they'll hate you anyway.

— Isabel Allende

Writing is a calling, not a choice.

— Isabel Allende