Joe E. Lewis Quotes

Powerful Joe E. Lewis for Daily Growth

About Joe E. Lewis

Joe E. Lewis (Joseph Erwin Lewis), born on July 19, 1891, in Baltimore, Maryland, was a prolific American humorist, singer, and actor who left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Known as "The Ol' Philosopher" or simply "Joe E. Brown," Lewis was a master of slapstick comedy, wit, and one-liners that continue to captivate audiences even today. Lewis began his career in vaudeville at the age of 16, honing his comedic skills alongside notable figures like Al Jolson. His breakthrough came when he was spotted by a Broadway producer during a performance in Atlantic City and cast in the musical "George White's Scandals." The success of this production led to a film contract with Fox Studios, where Lewis would star in numerous films throughout the 1920s and 30s. One of his most iconic roles was as Oliver Hardy's sidekick, Stan Laurel, in the comedy duo's early films. However, Lewis is perhaps best remembered for his portrayal of himself in the film "The Big Broadcast" (1932), where he delivered the famous line, "I'm a little slow sometimes, but I ain't stupid." Despite his success, Lewis remained humble and gracious. He was known for his generosity, often sending checks to fans who wrote to him asking for help during the Great Depression. Lewis passed away on January 26, 1973, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, warmth, and a reminder that humor can bridge even the widest divides. Lewis' work continues to influence modern comedy, with his quick wit and down-to-earth humor inspiring a new generation of performers. His quotes, such as "I never forget a face, but in your case I'll make an exception," are still quoted today, serving as a testament to the timeless appeal of his humor.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"I don't care who you are, if I don't like you, I'm going to tell you. And if you ask me two or three times, I may even give you a reason."

This quote by Joe E. Lewis emphasizes the importance of honesty and directness in relationships. He suggests that there should be no pretense or sugarcoating when it comes to expressing one's feelings towards someone else, even if those feelings are negative. The repeated request for an explanation may indicate a desire for understanding or clarification, which Lewis is willing to provide, albeit bluntly. Overall, this quote highlights the value of authenticity and transparency in communication with others.


"Age and experience is what allows us to recognize a young man when we see one."

This quote by Joe E. Lewis highlights the wisdom that comes with age and experience, suggesting that someone can identify a "young man" not just based on physical appearance, but also their demeanor or behavior. It implies that maturity, discernment, and understanding of people and the world around us are qualities often developed over time, rather than something inherent in youth.


"I'd rather be hated for who I am, than loved for who I am not."

This quote suggests that it is more valuable to be genuinely accepted and respected for one's authentic self, as opposed to being admired for a false or inauthentic version of oneself. It emphasizes the importance of self-expression and individuality over conforming to societal expectations, even if doing so may lead to disapproval from others. Essentially, it highlights the power and integrity of staying true to one's identity and character.


"Never argue with an idiot. They will only bring you down to their level and beat you with experience."

This quote by Joe E. Lewis suggests that engaging in arguments with people who lack knowledge or intelligence is generally unproductive, as they may lower the discourse to a less intellectual level through their ignorance or stubbornness, and their "experience" of such arguments - often repeated patterns of irrationality - can give them an unfair advantage. Instead, it might be wiser to avoid engaging in such arguments, or at least approach them with caution and patience.


"If you can't say something nice about somebody, don't say nothing at all."

Joe E. Lewis encourages thoughtfulness and positivity in communication through this quote. It suggests that if one cannot find anything kind or complimentary to share about someone, they should refrain from speaking negatively about them. This is a call for constructive criticism and emphasizes the importance of maintaining respect and kindness in all interactions.


Adlai Stevenson has a genius for saying the right thing, at the right time, to the wrong people.

- Joe E. Lewis

Saying, Genius, Right Thing, Stevenson

Show me a friend in need and I'll show you a pest.

- Joe E. Lewis

Me, Need, Show, Pest

They had me on the operating table all day. They looked into my stomach, my gall bladder, they examined everything inside of me. Know what they decided? I need glasses.

- Joe E. Lewis

Need, Had, Looked, Table

Whenever someone asks me if I want water with my Scotch, I say I'm thirsty, not dirty.

- Joe E. Lewis

Dirty, Want, Say, Scotch

I always wake up at the crack of ice.

- Joe E. Lewis

Wake Up, Always, Wake, Crack

It pays to get drunk with the best people.

- Joe E. Lewis

Best, Drunk, Get, Pays

A man is never drunk if he can lay on the floor without holding on.

- Joe E. Lewis

Never, Holding On, Holding, Floor

Show me a man with very little money and I will show you a bum.

- Joe E. Lewis

Money, Will, Very, Bum

I would take a bomb, but I can't stand the noise.

- Joe E. Lewis

Bomb, Take, Would, Noise

I told my doctor I get very tired when I go on a diet, so he gave me pep pills. Know what happened? I ate faster.

- Joe E. Lewis

Diet, Very, Pills, Ate

I'm still chasing girls. I don't remember what for, but I'm still chasing them.

- Joe E. Lewis

Remember, Still, Them, Chasing

I've been on such a losing streak that if I had been around I would have taken General Custer and given points.

- Joe E. Lewis

Been, Had, Given, Points

I don't like money actually, but it quiets the nerves.

- Joe E. Lewis

Money, Like, Actually, Nerves

There's only one thing money won't buy, and that is poverty.

- Joe E. Lewis

Money, Buy, One Thing, Poverty

I distrust camels, and anyone else who can go a week without a drink.

- Joe E. Lewis

Funny, Week, Camels, Distrust

If you want to make a dangerous man your friend, let him do you a favor.

- Joe E. Lewis

Friend, Want, Dangerous, Favor

Show me a man with both feet on the ground and I'll show you a man who can't get his pants on.

- Joe E. Lewis

Feet, Show, Pants, Ground

I don't drink any more than the man next to me, and the man next to me is Dean Martin.

- Joe E. Lewis

More, Next, Dean, None

I drink to forget I drink.

- Joe E. Lewis

Forget, Drink

It doesn't matter whether you are rich or poor - as long as you've got money.

- Joe E. Lewis

Money, Poor, Whether, Rich

The way taxes are, you might as well marry for love.

- Joe E. Lewis

Love, Funny, Might, Marry

We can afford almost any mistake once.

- Joe E. Lewis

Mistake, Afford, Almost, Once

I play in the low 80s. If it's any hotter than that, I won't play.

- Joe E. Lewis

Sports, Play, Than, Low

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