Leo Rosten (1908-1997)

Quotes

• 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.