Literary tattoos can include text tattoos of quotes from favorite books, tattoos of illustrations from famous books and even a tattoo artist’s interpretation of a scene from a book. For many tattoo and book lovers, a text tattoo of a favorite literary quote can be an expression of their own beliefs, ideals and dreams.

“Every saint has a past, every sinner has a future”. This quote is from popular 20th century author Oscar Wilde. The elegant font used in the tattoo design makes this tattoo both elegant and meaningful. [source]

The Meaning of Literary Quote Tattoos

The meaning of a literary quote tattoo is clearly expressed through the chosen phrase. The quote will also have a personal meaning to the tattoo owner because the quote might have helped them through a difficult time in life, changed their perspective on life or simply brought them joy over the years.

A mischievous quote tattoo from a Harry Potter book by JK Rowling. The spiral text reads, “I solemnly swear that I am up to no good.” This cute literary quote is a perfect tattoo for Harry Potter fans as well as anyone who simply enjoys a good turn of phrase. [source]

Literary quote tattoos are often short phrases of one or two lines that appeal to the tattoo owner. When tattooed in a beautiful font, the quote tattoo can become an attractive design that aids in expressing the meaning of the tattoo. For example, a quote from children’s book can be displayed in a fun, child-like font to add to the innocence of the phrase. A serious, philosophical quote might be expressed in a serious, adult font that causes the viewer to give the tattooed words deeper consideration.

The fantasy font used in this literary tattoo adds to the whimsical nature of this quote from fantasy novelist JRR Tolkien. The tattoo reads, “Deep roots are not reached by the frost”, a line taken from the poem “All that is gold does not glitter,
Not all those who wander are lost;
The old that is strong does not wither,
Deep roots are not reached by the frost.
From the ashes a fire shall be woken,
A light from the shadows shall spring;
Renewed shall be blade that was broken,
The crownless again shall be king.” [source]

For book lovers, a tattoo of a favorite literary quote is an ideal way to express their passion for reading. Many readers tend to be introverted, so an elegant, powerful or playful quote tattoo allows them to silently express themselves through body art. For bookworms who aren’t loud, charismatic or confident, a tattoo of a meaningful literary quote can speak louder than spoken words by giving the world a visual representation of the joy they find in reading instead of a vocalized, exuberant account of that joy.

This thought provoking quote tattoofrom author EE Cummings reads, “It takes courage to grow up and become who you truly are”. The tattoo artist has combined typography, decorative elements and the powerful quote to create a tattoo that is both meaningful and elegantly decorative. [source]

Past and Present, the Power of Words in Tattoos

Text was frequently used in tattoo designs of the past. Early 20th century tattoos often used the name of a loved one, a motto or a saying that related to the art work within the tattoo. In the late 20th century, literary tattoos became quite popular, with snippets of poetry, powerful quotes or fun puns from books that appealed to the tattoo wearer. The risk of tattooing the name of a relationship partner is that the relationship might fail and yet the tattoo wearer will forever be branded with their ex-partner’s name. A text tattoo of a literary quote isn’t as likely to fall out of favor with the tattoo owner and is therefore a more reliable choice for a permanent body art work.

This literary tattoo reads, “Explanations take such a dreadful time” The quote is from a conversation between Alice, the Gryphon and the Mock Turtle, characters from the famous children’s book Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll. The book was written decades ago but has remained a firm favorite among readers and quotes from Alice in Wonderland often find their way into literary tattoos. [source]

The quotes and phrases used in literary tattoos can be taken from modern literature or even ancient texts. Quotes from famous ancient Greek philosophers can reveal the philosophical nature of the tattoo owner, while a quote from a famous playwright like Shakespeare may reveal a love of poetry or acting. A quote from a favorite children’s book is a way of honoring a person’s own past by celebrating their childhood through tattoo art.

“It’s only after we’ve lost everything that we are free to do anything.” This literary tattoo is from Fight Club, a book written by Chuck Palahniuk that later became a popular movie. Whether from modern, antique or even ancient literature, quotes from favorite books can become thought provoking, powerful tattoo designs. [source]