Leo Rosten

I learned that it is the weak who are cruel, and that gentleness is to be expected only from the strong.

Acting is a form of deception, and actors can mesmerize themselves almost as easily as an audience.

I cannot believe that the purpose of life is (merely) to be happy. I think the purpose of life is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate. I think it is above all to matter, to count, to stand for something. To have it make some difference that you lived at all.

For some not to be martyrs is martyrdom indeed.

If at first you don't succeed, before you try again, stop to figure out what you did wrong.

Money can't buy happiness, but neither can poverty.

I never cease being dumbfounded by the unbelievable things people believe.

I never cease being dumbfounded by the unbelievable things people believe

Extremists think "communication" means agreeing with them.

If you are going to do something wrong at least enjoy it.

If you're going to do something wrong, at least enjoy it.

Most men do not mature, they simply grow taller.

The only reason for being a professional writer is that you can't help it.