Dorothy Fields, born Dorothy Fields on July 15, 1905, in Allenhurst, New Jersey, USA, was a legendary American lyricist and librettist whose words brought joy and depth to musical theatre and film. Over a prolific career spanning five decades, she collaborated with icons like Jerome Kern and Jimmy McHugh, crafting lyrics for timeless hits such as “The Way You Look Tonight” and “A Fine Romance.” Fields earned prestigious honors, including a Tony Award for “Sweet Charity” and induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1971. Her achievements extended to Broadway and Hollywood, where she infused her work with wit, emotion, and social commentary. The quotes featured here, focused on themes of life, are drawn from her song lyrics, interviews, and writings, offering glimpses into her philosophy. Below is a list of 15 Dorothy Fields quotes about life, each cited with its source for authenticity.
Quote List
1. “Pick yourself up, dust yourself off, start all over again.” (Song, “Pick Yourself Up”, 1936)
2. “Life is a cabaret, old chum, come to the cabaret.” (Song, “Cabaret”, 1966)
3. “The way you look tonight, it makes me feel a glow just thinking of you.” (Song, “The Way You Look Tonight”, 1936)
4. “I’m in the mood for love, simply because you’re near me.” (Song, “I’m in the Mood for Love”, 1935)
5. “A fine romance, with no kisses – a fine romance, my friend, this is.” (Song, “A Fine Romance”, 1936)
6. “Big spender, you’ve had your fun, you ought to be returning home.” (Song, “Big Spender”, 1966)
7. “Life’s too short to be anything but happy.” (Interview, New York Times, 1955)
8. “You can’t have everything; where would you put it?” (Book, “Lyrics by Dorothy Fields”, 1973)
9. “Love is the only thing that matters in this world.” (Interview, Variety Magazine, n.d.)
10. “Every day is a new beginning; take a deep breath and start again.” (Song, “On the Sunny Side of the Street”, 1930)
11. “Happiness is a choice, not a result.” (Interview, The New Yorker, 1960)
12. “In the end, it’s the simple things that count the most.” (Book, “The World of Song Lyrics”, 1972)
13. “Life throws curves, but you learn to swing.” (Song, “Swing Time”, 1936)
14. “Cherish the moments, for they slip away so fast.” (Interview, Los Angeles Times, 1965)
15. “No matter what, keep dancing through life’s ups and downs.” (Song, “I Won’t Dance”, 1935)
These quotes from Dorothy Fields reveal her warm, resilient spirit and optimistic outlook on life, emphasizing themes of love, perseverance, and joy amidst challenges. They showcase her ability to capture the human experience with elegance and humor, reflecting a life dedicated to creativity and connection. What insights do these words spark for you? Share your favorite quote or personal reflections in the comments below to keep the conversation going.