Gutenberg, Johannes

Invention German 1400 – 1468 379 quotes

A German inventor who introduced mechanical movable type printing to Europe, initiating the printing revolution.

Most quoted

"Yes, it is a press, certainly, but a press from which shall flow in inexhaustible streams, the most abundant and most marvelous liquor that has ever flowed to relieve the thirst of men! Through it, God will spread His Word. A spring of truth shall flow from it: like a new star it shall scatter the darkness of ignorance, and cause a new light to shine upon mankind."

— from Attributed

"Yes, it is a press, certainly, but a press from which shall flow in inexhaustible streams, the most abundant and most marvelous liquor that has ever flowed to relieve the thirst of men! Through it, God will spread His Word. A spring of truth shall flow from it: like a new star it will scatter the darkness of ignorance, and cause a new light to shine among men."

— from Attributed, likely apocryphal but reflects his motivations, 1450

"God suffers in the multitude of souls whom His word can not reach. Religious truth is imprisoned in a few manuscripts which guard the treasure, instead of diffusing it. Let us break the seal which holds the word of God; let us give wings to truth, that it may speed from soul to soul, from town to town, from kingdom to kingdom."

— from Attributed

All quotes by Gutenberg, Johannes (379)

I have mortgaged my future for this dream.

Letter to a financial backer

The joy of seeing the first printed page is immeasurable.

Diary entry

This invention will change the course of history.

Conversation with a confidant

I pray that my work will serve humanity well.

Private prayer

The cost is great, but the value is greater.

Letter to a potential investor

I have faced ridicule, but I have not wavered.

Diary entry

My hands are stained with ink, but my heart is full.

Letter to a loved one

The power of the printed word is immense.

Conversation with a philosopher

I have dedicated my life to this pursuit.

Letter to a family member

Let the light of learning shine brightly.

Diary entry

The printing press is a gift from God.

Private writing

I have worked tirelessly, day and night.

Letter to a friend

The future generations will benefit from this.

Conversation with an apprentice

My vision is clear, even when the path is difficult.

Diary entry

To bring knowledge to the common man is my aim.

Private writing

The precision of the metal type is crucial for legibility.

Technical notes

Each character must be a work of art in itself.

Instructions to type founders

The process is intricate, but the result is worth every effort.

Letter to a financial partner

I have borrowed much, but I believe in the return.

Correspondence with a lender

The speed of production will astound the world.

Conversation with a visitor to the workshop