Garson Kanin > Quotes

“The use of talent is far more important than the possession of talent.”
― Garson Kanin

“I want everybody to be smart. As smart as they can be. A world of ignorant people is too dangerous to live in.”
― Garson Kanin, Born Yesterday: Comedy in 3 Acts

“Professor Einstein took his wife’s hand in his and replied, “Well, when we were first married fifty years ago—Gott im Himmel!—fifty years—we made a pact. It was this. That in our life together, I would make all the big decisions and she would make all the little decisions. And we have kept to it for fifty years. That, I think, is the reason for the success of our marriage.” Then, he looked up and added, “The strange thing is that in fifty years, there hasn’t yet been one big decision.”
― Garson Karin, Hollywood

“She looked Spencer over, tip to toe, as though she were considering buying him. Then she smiled her friendliest smile and said, "You're rather short, aren't you?" "Don't worry honey," said Mankiewicz, trying desperately to extinguish Spencer's glare. "He'll cut you down to size.”
― Garson Kanin, Tracy and Hepburn

“You know how we say in Wisconsin: 'Do right and fear no man; don't write and fear no woman!”
― Garson Kanin, Tracy and Hepburn

“Katharine Hepburn is tall—not as tall as she thinks she is, but tall.”
― Garson Kanin, Tracy and Hepburn

“When art critics get together they talk about Content, Style, Trend and Meaning, but when painters get together they talk about where can you get the best turpentine.”
― Garson Kanin, Remembering Mr. Maugham

“So as far as chests go, whatever you’re going to have there, you’ll have there. In time. Sub-nubbins, nubbins, boopers, or super-droopers.” I made her repeat the categories until I had committed them to memory.”
― Garson Kanin, Smash

“I have three superlative assets. (Four, really. But there is one I prefer not to go into at this time.) First, my legs. Looking at them objectively—as I often do—I consider them as good as any. They are outstanding right from the pelvic region to the toes. Thighs, knees (back and front), calves, ankles, feet, toes—all have been the subjects of spoken as well as unspoken praise.”
― Garson Kanin, Smash

“To all the dumb chumps and all the crazy broads, past, present and future--who thirst for knowledge--and search for truth--who fight for justice--and civilize each other--and make it so tough for sons of bitches like you--and you--and me.”
― Garson Kanin, Born Yesterday: Comedy in 3 Acts