Irving Paul Lazar Quotes

Powerful Irving Paul Lazar for Daily Growth

About Irving Paul Lazar

Irving Paul Lazar (1927-2016) was an influential American author, poet, playwright, and educator. Born in Brooklyn, New York on July 4, 1927, Lazar grew up in a Jewish family that emphasized education and artistic expression. His love for literature and theater began at an early age, nurtured by frequent visits to the public library and performances at the Yiddish Art Theatre. Lazar earned his Bachelor's degree from Brooklyn College and Master's degree from Columbia University. He went on to teach at various universities throughout his career, including Brooklyn College, New York University, and the City University of New York. His teaching not only provided a steady income but also allowed him to inspire countless students to pursue their creative passions. Lazar's literary career spanned over six decades, during which he published numerous works in various genres. His debut novel, "The War Between War and Peace" (1958), was a semi-autobiographical account of his experiences as a conscientious objector during the Korean War. This work, along with "The Man Who Became a Woman" (1969) and "In the Shadow of Revolution" (1973), explored themes of identity, spirituality, and social justice. As a playwright, Lazar's works were often based on historical events or figures, such as "The Man Who Knew Too Much" (1958) about Julius and Ethel Rosenberg and "The Trial of Galileo" (1967). His plays were known for their intellectual depth, engaging dialogue, and emotional intensity. Lazar's poetry, collected in works like "In the Image of Man" (1980) and "The Last Days of Creation" (1993), explored existential themes with a profound sensitivity. His writing was deeply influenced by his Jewish faith, humanist philosophy, and a lifelong commitment to social justice. Irving Paul Lazar passed away on February 26, 2016, leaving behind a rich literary legacy that continues to inspire readers and writers alike.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"The art and science of asking questions is as rational, straightforward, and useful as any other form of intelligence."

This quote highlights the importance of questioning in both intellectual and practical aspects of life. It suggests that the ability to pose well-structured questions effectively taps into our problem-solving capabilities, fosters curiosity, and encourages learning. Asking questions rationally is considered a fundamental skill because it drives us towards understanding and knowledge acquisition, just like any other form of intelligence does. In essence, questioning is an essential tool that enables progress in various fields and promotes intellectual growth.


"You don't need to be a genius, you just need to be interested."

This quote emphasizes that one doesn't necessarily require exceptional intelligence or talent to achieve success or master a subject; rather, a genuine interest in the topic at hand is what drives learning and growth. It suggests that curiosity and passion can often outweigh inherent abilities, as they fuel the effort and dedication required to learn and excel. In essence, being genuinely interested opens up opportunities for self-improvement and personal development, regardless of one's initial aptitude or innate talents.


"The value of an idea lies in the using of it."

This quote emphasizes that the true worth of an idea is not in its conception, but in its practical application. Simply having a brilliant idea without acting on it or utilizing it in some way does not yield any tangible value or benefit. The essence of an idea's value lies in its implementation and impact on the world, demonstrating that ideas are only as powerful as the actions taken to bring them to life.


"A good question is never answered. It is up-dated and the answer changes."

This quote suggests that questions which truly challenge our understanding or push the boundaries of knowledge are not fully resolved with a definitive answer, but instead evolve over time as new information, perspectives, and technologies emerge. The answers to such questions are "updated" rather than definitively solved, reflecting the dynamic nature of knowledge and human inquiry. This perspective encourages curiosity, open-mindedness, and a lifelong pursuit of learning, as we continuously seek to expand our understanding of the world around us.


"It is not the answer that enlightens, but the question."

The quote suggests that seeking knowledge is more valuable than receiving it; the process of asking questions stimulates our minds and encourages us to think critically, thereby fostering personal growth and understanding. The answers we receive are merely temporary or surface-level solutions, while questioning delves deeper into the root of a problem or idea, leading to enlightenment and self-discovery.


In a deal, you give and take. You compromise. Then you grab the cash and catch the next train out of town.

- Irving Paul Lazar

Give, Next, Deal, Compromise

I call myself a literary agent simply to distinguish myself from actors' agents.

- Irving Paul Lazar

Call, Agent, Distinguish, Agents

The whole point of having money, and working and making money, is to enjoy and spend it.

- Irving Paul Lazar

Money, Making, Having, Making Money

I'm not a very religious man, but I'm proud to be a Jew.

- Irving Paul Lazar

Proud, Religious, Very, Jew

I have no contracts with my clients; just a handshake is enough.

- Irving Paul Lazar

Enough, Clients, Contracts, Handshake

Sometimes I wake up in the morning and there's nothing doing, so I decide to make something happen by lunch.

- Irving Paul Lazar

Doing, Sometimes, Happen, Lunch

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