178 Quotes by Elaine Stritch

I always say, ‘If you can’t give a reason for the banana peel being in the alley, then don’t have the comic slide over it.’ Do you understand what I mean? First explain how the banana peel got there quickly. And then there’s a reason for all the comedy.

Everybody’s got a sack of rocks.

There’s nothing attractive about doing a documentary. Nothing. It’s hard, hard work, and I find having all the attention of the day on me a very unattractive proposition.

It’s a pain in the ass, show business. And the only time that I really enjoy it is when I’m in front of an audience and they’re reacting to me.

When you’re dealing with your life, my God, you gotta tell the truth.

People will always be around to tell you you’re no good or you’re wrong or unwise to keep doing what you want to do. They’re wrong. They’re always wrong. Keep going.

This age thing is all up to you. It’s like happiness is up to you. You just have to understand what it is before you get it.

I can’t explain chemistry. I really can’t. I haven’t got a clue what it’s all about. It just happens. It’s like falling in love. You can’t explain why you fall in love or explain why it’s this particular person.

Certain type of actresses get younger instead of older. I always say, ‘Only ingenues age.’