William Claude Dukenfield, better known as W. C. Fields, was born on January 29, 1880, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He was a pioneering American comedian, actor, juggler, and writer who gained fame in vaudeville and Hollywood during the early 20th century. Fields starred in iconic films like “The Bank Dick” (1940) and “My Little Chickadee” (1940), where his sharp wit and misanthropic humor made him a legend. He is remembered for his cynical takes on life, often delivered through memorable one-liners that blended comedy with social commentary. The quotes featured here are sourced from his films, interviews, books, and attributed collections, capturing his unique perspective. Now, dive into this list of 15 insightful quotes by W. C. Fields about life, each highlighting his humorous and reflective outlook.
Quote List
1. “Start every day off with a smile and get it over with.” (Film, “Never Give a Sucker an Even Break,” 1941)
2. “If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again. Then quit. No use being a damn fool about it.” (Film, “The Old-Fashioned Way,” 1934)
3. “A man who overindulges lives in a dream, and one who never touches lives in a drawing-room.” (Interview, The New Yorker, 1934)
4. “I spent half my money on gambling, alcohol, and wild women. The other half I wasted.” (Book, “W. C. Fields: A Life on Film,” 1984)
5. “Life is uncertain. Eat dessert first.” (Attributed, often cited in biographies, n.d.)
6. “The world is getting to be such a dangerous place, a man is lucky to get out of it alive.” (Film, “The Bank Dick,” 1940)
7. “A woman’s place is in the home—and she should stay there.” (Interview, Variety Magazine, 1936)
8. “I never met a kid I liked.” (Film, “It’s a Gift,” 1934)
9. “Ah, the patter of little feet around the house. There’s nothing like it—especially when it’s going out the door.” (Book, “Fields for President,” 1940)
10. “A man’s got to believe in something. I believe I’ll have another drink.” (Film, “You Can’t Cheat an Honest Man,” 1939)
11. “I was married by a judge. I should have asked for a jury.” (Attributed, Interview, Los Angeles Times, 1941)
12. “Horse sense is the thing a horse has which keeps it from betting on people.” (Book, “The Wit and Wisdom of W. C. Fields,” 1976)
13. “There comes a time in the affairs of man when he must take the bull by the tail and face the situation.” (Film, “The Man on the Flying Trapeze,” 1935)
14. “I like to keep a bottle of stimulant handy in case I see a snake—which I also keep handy.” (Interview, Collier’s Magazine, 1939)
15. “The best way to supplement your income is to stop spending it.” (Attributed, Book, “W. C. Fields in His Own Words,” 1988)
These quotes from W. C. Fields paint a picture of a man who approached life with biting humor and unflinching honesty, often mocking its absurdities while revealing deeper truths about human nature. His words reflect a cynical charm that endures, reminding us to laugh at life’s challenges and imperfections. What do you think of Fields’ perspective? Share your favorite quote or how it resonates with you in the comments below.