
Edwin Lefèvre was an American journalist and author renowned for his insightful writings on Wall Street and the world of finance. Born in 1871, he began his career as a journalist, where he developed a keen understanding of the stock market and the intricacies of financial dealings. Lefèvre's most notable work, 'Reminiscences of a Stock Operator,' published in 1923, is a fictionalized biography of the legendary stock trader Jesse Livermore. This book has since become a classic in financial literature, offering readers a unique perspective on the psychology of trading and the tumultuous nature of the stock market. Lefèvre's contributions to literature extend beyond his famous work on Livermore. He wrote several other books and articles that explored the dynamics of finance and investment, establishing himself as a significant voice in the early 20th-century financial discourse. His ability to blend storytelling with practical financial advice has left a lasting impact on both investors and writers alike, solidifying his legacy as a pioneer in financial literature. Lefèvre's works continue to be referenced and respected for their depth of insight and relevance to the world of investing.
“There is nothing like losing all you have in the world for teaching you what not to do. And when you know what not to do in order not to lose money, you begin to learn what to do in order to win. Did you get that? You begin to learn!”
“It never was my thinking that made the big money for me. It always was my sitting. Got that? My sitting tight! It is no trick at all to be right on the market. You always find lots of early bulls in bull markets and early bears in bear markets. I've known many men who were right at exactly the right time, and began buying or selling stocks when prices were at the very level which should show the greatest profit. And their experience invariably matched mine--that is, they made no real money out of it. Men who can both be right and sit tight are uncommon.”
“That is about all I have learned—to study general conditions, to take a position and stick to it.”