George Colman Quotes

Powerful George Colman for Daily Growth

About George Colman

George Colman (Senior), born on April 17, 1762, was an influential British playwright who made significant contributions to the world of drama during the late 18th century. His full name was George Colman the Elder, a title that distinguishes him from his son, George Colman the Younger. Born into a family with theatrical roots in London, Colman's passion for theatre was ignited at an early age. After receiving a traditional education, he started working as a manager and playwright at the Theatre Royal in Drury Lane, one of the most famous theatres in London during that time. Colman is best known for his comedies, which often showcased wit, satire, and social commentary, reflecting his keen understanding of contemporary society. Some of his major works include "The Heir at Law" (1786), a farce, and "In Fine Feather" (1794), a comedy that poked fun at the aristocracy. His influence extends beyond his plays as he also played a crucial role in modernizing theatre management. Colman introduced innovations such as box-office ticket sales and regular performances on weekdays, making theatre more accessible to the general public. Colman's work had a profound impact on British comedy, setting a precedent for future playwrights who sought to combine humor with social critique. Despite his significant contributions, he is often overlooked in favour of more famous contemporaries such as Oliver Goldsmith and Richard Brinsley Sheridan. However, his legacy continues to live on through the continued performances of his works and the influence they have had on subsequent playwrights. George Colman passed away on January 25, 1810, leaving behind a rich literary heritage that continues to inspire and entertain audiences to this day.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Laughter is the most beautiful gift that we have."

The quote by George Colman suggests that laughter, a natural human response characterized by humor or amusement, has an inherent beauty in its ability to connect people, elevate moods, and foster a sense of shared joy. Laughter is more than just a sound; it's a universal language, a bonding agent, and a reminder of our common humanity. In essence, Colman emphasizes the transformative power laughter has on both individuals and society as a whole.


"The best play is the one that makes the audience forget they are in a theatre."

This quote by George Colman emphasizes the ideal of immersive storytelling, where the performance is so captivating that the audience momentarily suspends disbelief and forgets they are in a theater. In essence, it highlights the power of good theatre to transport viewers into another world, transcending the physical boundaries of the stage, making them fully engrossed in the narrative or drama unfolding before them.


"A good play should be like a fine lady: it need not be young, but it must be attractive."

This quote by George Colman suggests that just as an attractive woman maintains her allure regardless of age, a good play or piece of literature should have timeless appeal. The focus is less on the novelty or newness of the work, and more on its ability to captivate and engage audiences across different eras. This attraction can stem from various factors such as compelling characters, engaging plot, thought-provoking themes, or beautiful language.


"There's no pleasing the public; they always want something new and yet they like the old things the best."

This quote by George Colman reflects a paradoxical perspective on audience preferences, suggesting that people tend to desire novelty while simultaneously appreciating familiarity. In other words, the public often seeks out fresh experiences, but at the same time, they find comfort and satisfaction in nostalgia for what is already known or loved from the past. This observation can be applied to various aspects of culture, including art, entertainment, fashion, and technology.


"We all have our faults - his lie in the opposite direction to mine."

This quote emphasizes that everyone has their unique flaws or shortcomings, but those flaws may not necessarily be identical for each individual. In simpler terms, we all have our personal vices, and these vices might not align with those of others because they stem from our distinct characters, upbringing, experiences, and perspectives. The quote encourages understanding and tolerance as we recognize and navigate the differences among us.


Praise the bridge that carried you over.

- George Colman

Praise, Over, Carried, Bridge

Like two single gentlemen rolled into one.

- George Colman

Single, Two, Like, Gentlemen

Says he, 'I am a handsome man, but I'm a gay deceiver'.

- George Colman

Man, I Am, Handsome, Deceiver

On their own merits modest men are dumb.

- George Colman

Men, Dumb, Own, Merits

Mum's the word.

- George Colman

Word, Mum

If you're searching for quotes on a different topic, feel free to browse our Topics page or explore a diverse collection of quotes from various Authors to find inspiration.