Ira Gershwin, born on December 6, 1896, in New York City, was a celebrated American lyricist and the older brother of composer George Gershwin. Throughout his illustrious career, he crafted unforgettable lyrics for Broadway musicals and Hollywood films, collaborating on hits like “I Got Rhythm,” “Summertime,” and “They Can’t Take That Away from Me.” His achievements include winning a Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1932 for “Of Thee I Sing” and an Academy Award in 1959 for Best Original Song. Gershwin’s work has left a lasting legacy in music and culture. Quotes from him are often drawn from his song lyrics, interviews, and his book “Lyrics on Several Occasions,” offering witty and profound reflections on life. Below is a curated list of 15 quotes by Ira Gershwin that explore themes of life, sourced from various points in his career.
15 Ira Gershwin Quotes
1. “Who could ask for anything more?” (Song lyric, “I Got Rhythm”, 1930)
2. “The song is ended, but the melody lingers on.” (Song lyric, “The Song is Ended”, 1927)
3. “Summertime, and the livin’ is easy.” (Song lyric, “Summertime”, Porgy and Bess, 1935)
4. “They can’t take that away from me.” (Song lyric, “They Can’t Take That Away from Me”, 1937)
5. “Nice work if you can get it, and if you get it, won’t you tell me how?” (Song lyric, “Nice Work If You Can Get It”, 1937)
6. “Someone to watch over me.” (Song lyric, “Someone to Watch Over Me”, 1926)
7. “But not for me.” (Song lyric, “But Not for Me”, 1930)
8. “Love is here to stay.” (Song lyric, “Love Is Here to Stay”, 1938)
9. “Embrace me, my sweet embraceable you.” (Song lyric, “Embraceable You”, 1930)
10. “I’ve got a crush on you; sweetie, I’m in love.” (Song lyric, “I’ve Got a Crush on You”, 1928)
11. “Let’s call the whole thing off.” (Song lyric, “Let’s Call the Whole Thing Off”, 1937)
12. “I can’t get started with you.” (Song lyric, “I Can’t Get Started”, 1936)
13. “Life is a series of moments, each one a verse in the grand song.” (Book, “Lyrics on Several Occasions”, 1959)
14. “In life, timing is everything—just like in a good lyric.” (Interview, The New York Times, 1975)
15. “The best things in life often come with a bit of rhythm and rhyme.” (Interview, Variety, n.d.)
Ira Gershwin’s quotes paint a picture of a life-affirming spirit, highlighting themes of joy, resilience, and the beauty in human experiences. Through his lyrical wisdom, he reminds us to savor simple pleasures, embrace emotions, and find rhythm in life’s ups and downs. What insights do these words spark for you? Share your thoughts or a favorite quote in the comments below and let’s discuss.