11 Profound Quotes To Remember 'To Kill A Mockingbird' Author Harper Lee

Nelle Harper Lee, author of the acclaimed classic novel "To Kill a Mockingbird" died Thursday at the age of 89. She died in her hometown of Monroeville, Alabama, a county coroner confirmed.

Harper Lee's incredible influence is nearly unmeasurable. "To Kill A Mockingbird" was published in 196o. In 1961, she won the Pulitzer Prize for it. The film adaption became an instant classic the very next year.

The story of Atticus Finch, the white lawyer defending a black man falsely accused of rape, and his daughter Scout, the strong-willed tomboy, resonated with millions of people around the world. At the time it came out — right on the brink of the Civil Rights Movement — it was an exposé of the racism in the deep South. The undertones still ring true to the racial prejudices of today, half a century later.

After the huge success of "To Kill a Mockingbird," Lee famously never wrote another book — until suddenly she did when "Go Set a Watchman" was published in July of last year.

Harper Lee's health was sadly deteriorating ever since her stroke in 2007. (This caused many to question whether or not she even wanted her second novel published at all or whether she was taken advantage of by her sister and caretaker.)

But for over 50 years, Harper Lee captured the world with her words. For that, we all suffer a great loss today. RIP, Harper Lee. Here are some amazing quotes to remember her by.

1. Harper Lee taught us the truly great books are the ones that don't do all the work for you.

2. She knew words are meaningless if those who hear them are ignorant.

3. She challenged people to look outside their learned perspectives.

4. "To Kill A Mockingbird" was her message to the world to try harder and be better.

5. Her characters would say things so simple and yet so profound, it was impossible to read without pausing just to let the words sink in.

6. She inspired so many with her definition of courage.

7. She knew how to cut around the bullsh*t.

8. She taught us the majority is not always right.

9. And she wanted everyone to see each other as equal.

10. She truly believed in the good in all people.

11. Her legacy and influence will never be forgotten.

RIP, Harper Lee. Thank you for all the beauty and love you wrote into existence.

Citations: To Kill A Mockingbird author Harper Lee dies at 89 (Entertainment Weekly)