Back to the Future Ambition Quotes

How we cite our quotes: All quotations are from Back to the Future.

Quote #1

Marty: Damn. I'm late for school.

This quote definitely says something about Marty's ambition… and it ain't good. No matter what his musical aspirations are, this is a clear indicator that, when it comes to academics, it couldn't hurt for him to buckle down. We're already beginning to see where his priorities are.

Quote #2

Marty: Yeah, I know if you put your mind to it, you can accomplish anything.

The sentiment is a good one, but Marty's tone when he delivers it is less than convincing. Basically, he's regurgitating a piece of advice he's heard over and over again, but it doesn't mean anything to him (at least not yet). As the movie goes on, however, and Marty does a lot of putting his mind to things he realizes how effective the practice can actually be. He even rubs off on his dad.

Quote #3

Marty: Check out that four by four. That is hot. Someday, Jennifer, someday. Wouldn't it be great to take that truck up to the lake? Throw a couple of sleeping bags in the back. Lie out under the stars.

Not every ambition has to be about something you want to accomplish career-wise. Marty sees in his mind's eye the perfect weekend, with the perfect girl, and envisioning things repeatedly can often help them come true. We've been trying the same trick for years with our lottery tickets.