Friday 5 June 2009

Clown Quotations

Today I'm making a (slow) start on compiling a list of clown quotations. Slow, because I'm feeling a bit lazy and can't be bothered to go searching all my notes and books for bits of wisdom. But never mind, I will add to the list as I go along. All suggestions greatly received!

What makes a good clown quotation? Firstly, it's better if a clown said it. And if not a clown then someone professionally close to the clown's world. Secondly, it's better if it surprises us and illuminates us, just as the performance of a clown is intended to do. It's no good keeping on repeating the same old material, it gets tired very quickly. So, no platitudes!

"When you stand there doing nothing and it's funny, that's repose" (Johnny Carson)

"Clowns are pegs, used to hang circuses on." (Phineas T. Barnum)

“I was born a clown. I’ve never felt comfortable as a woman.” (Annie Fratellini)

“To that eternal naïve question reporters are for ever shouting at me: ‘Why did you become a clown?’ I have only one reply. ‘Because I wanted to.’” (Grock)

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