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Cole Porter Quotes

Powerful Cole Porter for Daily Growth

About Cole Porter

Cole Porter (1891-1964) was an American composer, songwriter, and pianist, renowned as one of the greatest figures in the history of American musical theater. Born in Peru, Indiana, Porter showed an early affinity for music and poetry; he began composing songs at the age of seven. After studying at Yale University, Porter moved to New York City to pursue a career in songwriting. His breakthrough came with the hit song "What Is This Thing Called Love?" (1928), which catapulted him into fame. Over the next three decades, he wrote over 800 songs and scored Broadway hits such as "Paris" (1928), "Fifty Million Frenchmen" (1931), "Anything Goes" (1934), "Kiss Me, Kate" (1948), and "Can-Can" (1953). Porter's music was characterized by wit, sophistication, and a mastery of complex harmonies. His lyrics often tackled taboo subjects for the time, such as premarital sex and homosexuality, revealing his progressive attitudes. Influenced by the French Impressionist composers and jazz musicians, Porter's music bridged the gap between classical and popular music genres. Despite personal struggles, including a riding accident that left him disabled for much of his life, Porter continued to compose and perform. He was open about his homosexuality at a time when it was largely hidden in Hollywood, making him a trailblazer in the entertainment industry. Porter's influence extends beyond Broadway; his songs have been covered by countless artists spanning multiple genres, from Ella Fitzgerald to Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole to Bing Crosby. Cole Porter's legacy endures as one of the most important figures in American musical history. His timeless melodies and clever lyrics continue to captivate audiences today.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"It's de-lovely"

The quote "It's de-lovely" by Cole Porter conveys a sense of immense delight, charm, and allure. It suggests an extraordinary appreciation for something or someone that is captivating and delightful. In essence, the wordplay between 'de-lightful' and 'de-lovely' emphasizes the enchanting nature of the object or situation being admired.

"I get no kick from champagne. Mere alcohol doesn't thrill me at all."

This quote suggests that the speaker, Cole Porter, finds little pleasure or excitement in drinking champagne or any type of alcohol merely for its intoxicating effects. Instead, he derives more fulfillment from other sources, possibly artistic pursuits, as evidenced by his illustrious career as a songwriter and composer.

"You're the top! You're the Colosseum, you're the Louvre Museum, you're a bumblebee."

This quote by Cole Porter is an expression of profound admiration. The speaker sees their subject as the epitome of grandeur, symbolized by iconic structures like the Colosseum and Louvre Museum, which are recognized for their immense historical and artistic significance. Additionally, being compared to a bumblebee signifies beauty and hard work, as these creatures are known for their vibrant appearance and tireless effort in pollinating flowers. Overall, this quote suggests that the subject of the speaker's affection is incredibly impressive and valuable, capturing their heart with their multifaceted excellence.

"Don't be afraid of love. Although of course, be afraid of a fracture."

This quote by Cole Porter encourages embracing love while also acknowledging potential risks or pain that may come with it. Essentially, it suggests to take the chance in love, but at the same time, be cautious and prepared for the possibility of heartbreak. In other words, enjoy the beauty and benefits of love, but always keep a guard up to protect oneself from hurt.

"Anything Goes" (Title of one of his most famous musicals)

The title "Anything Goes," from Cole Porter's popular musical, is a reflection of the idea that in some aspects of life, particularly in matters of love and personal expression, there are no hard-and-fast rules. It suggests an attitude of acceptance and understanding towards unconventionality and individuality, as if to say that as long as one remains true to oneself, anything is possible or permissible. This theme resonates with the spirit of liberation and self-expression that defines much of modern art and society.

In olden days a glimpse of stocking was looked on as something shocking but now, God knows, anything goes.

- Cole Porter

Goes, Glimpse, Looked, Stocking

Good authors, too, who once knew better words now only use four-letter words writing prose... anything goes.

- Cole Porter

Prose, Use, Four-Letter, Authors

Most gentlemen don't like love, they just like to kick it around.

- Cole Porter

Love, Kick, Most, Gentlemen

It's delightful, it's delicious, it's de-lovely.

- Cole Porter

Delicious, Delightful

He may have hair upon his chest but, sister, so has Lassie.

- Cole Porter

Hair, Chest, His, Sister

All the world loves a clown.

- Cole Porter

World, Loves, All The World, Clown

I love Paris in the summer, when it sizzles.

- Cole Porter

Love, Summer, I Love, Paris

My sole inspiration is a telephone call from a director.

- Cole Porter

Director, Call, Sole, Telephone

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