Oscar Levant, born on December 27, 1896, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was a brilliant and multifaceted American artist. As a concert pianist, composer, actor, and author, he achieved fame through his sharp wit, collaborations with George Gershwin, and memorable roles in films like “An American in Paris.” Levant’s career highlights include composing film scores, writing best-selling books such as “Memoirs of an Amnesiac,” and earning acclaim for his television appearances, where his humor shone. He was known for his candid, often cynical insights into life. The quotes here are sourced from his interviews, books, and public appearances, focusing on his perspectives on existence. Explore this list of 15 thoughtful quotes that reveal Levant’s unfiltered take on life.
15 Oscar Levant Quotes
1. “Life is too important to be taken seriously.” (Interview, Esquire Magazine, 1952)
2. “In life, the only thing certain is uncertainty, and that’s what makes it exciting.” (Book, “Memoirs of an Amnesiac,” 1965)
3. “Life is like a piano—what you get out of it depends on how you play it.” (TV Appearance, “The Ed Sullivan Show,” 1958)
4. “We’ve all got to laugh at life, or we’ll cry ourselves to death.” (Interview, Los Angeles Times, 1960)
5. “Life’s a tough proposition, and the first hundred years are the hardest.” (Book, “Memoirs of an Amnesiac,” 1965)
6. “In life, as in music, the pauses are as important as the notes.” (Public Lecture, Carnegie Hall, 1947)
7. “Life is a series of interruptions; learn to enjoy the surprises.” (Interview, Time Magazine, 1955)
8. “The best part of life is the part you haven’t lived yet.” (TV Interview, CBS News, 1962)
9. “Life is a comedy for those who think and a tragedy for those who feel.” (Attributed in Film, “An American in Paris,” 1951)
10. “In life, you must play the cards you’re dealt, but you can always shuffle and deal again.” (Book, “The Unimportance of Being Oscar,” 1968)
11. “Life’s greatest joy comes from creating something out of nothing.” (Interview, New Yorker, 1953)
12. “Humor is the shock absorber of life—it keeps you from breaking down.” (Public Appearance, Hollywood Bowl, 1959)
13. “Life is what happens while you’re busy worrying about what might happen.” (Interview, Playboy Magazine, 1964)
14. “In life, the only real failure is giving up too soon.” (TV Appearance, “What’s My Line?,” 1961)
15. “Life is a fatal disease, but it’s the only one worth catching.” (Interview, various sources, n.d.)
These quotes from Oscar Levant reflect his sharp, humorous, and introspective view of life, blending cynicism with wisdom to highlight the absurdities and depths of human experience. They reveal a man who faced life’s chaos with unflinching honesty and a touch of levity, encouraging resilience and self-awareness. What insights do these words spark for you? Share your favorite quote or thoughts in the comments below to keep the conversation going.