Larry Gelbart Quotes

Powerful Larry Gelbart for Daily Growth

About Larry Gelbart

Larry Gelbart (February 25, 1928 – August 11, 2009) was a renowned American playwright, screenwriter, producer, and comedian, whose impact on the world of humor and entertainment remains substantial to this day. Born in New York City, Gelbart grew up in the Bronx, where he developed an early interest in show business. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, which greatly influenced his later work, particularly his collaboration on the hit musical "M*A*S*H." Gelbart's career took off in the 1960s when he began writing for television shows such as "Your Show of Shows," "The Phil Silvers Show," and "Hogan's Heroes." His work during this period is noted for its sharp wit, social commentary, and innovative narrative structures. In 1970, Gelbart co-wrote the book for the musical "M*A*S*H," which was based on the novel by Richard Hooker. The show became a cultural phenomenon, winning multiple Tony Awards and spawning the highly successful television series. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Gelbart continued to make significant contributions to both stage and screen. He co-wrote the book for the musical "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum" and the film script for "Tootsie." His work on the film adaptation of "The Odd Couple" earned him an Academy Award nomination. Gelbart's final major project was co-creating the animated television series "City of Heroes," which aired from 1996 to 2003. Throughout his life, Gelbart was known for his quick wit, intellectual curiosity, and deep empathy for human nature. His work continues to be celebrated for its ability to blend humor with insightful social commentary, making him a true master of comedic storytelling.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Laughter is nothing more than carbon dioxide leaving the body at high speed."

This quote by Larry Gelbart humorously suggests that laughter, a human emotional response characterized by smiles, jokes, or tickling, is essentially an expulsion of carbon dioxide (a gas produced during breathing) with greater force than usual. In simpler terms, he's saying laughter is like a burst of air escaping quickly from our bodies - a common physical manifestation when we find something amusing or funny.


"Always end the name of your child with a vowel so he can be found in the phone book under both first and last names."

This quote suggests that naming a child with an ending vowel, such as 'a' or 'o', could potentially make it easier for people to find them in a telephone directory by allowing their name to be searched under both the first and last name due to the presence of a vowel at the end.


"I'm not a very religious man, but I believe in something called 'Karma.' What goes around comes around."

This quote emphasizes the concept of Karma, which is deeply rooted in many Eastern philosophies, particularly Hinduism and Buddhism. Larry Gelbart suggests that although he's not a religious man in the traditional sense, he subscribes to the idea of "what goes around comes around." In simpler terms, actions have consequences, positive or negative, and they will eventually return to the individual who performed them. This perspective encourages people to act kindly and ethically, as good deeds are likely to be rewarded while harmful acts may bring negative outcomes.


"There's nothing funny about a funeral - unless you're late."

This quote by Larry Gelbart humorously implies that finding humor in a solemn occasion like a funeral, specifically if one is running late, serves to alleviate or lighten the gravity of the situation, even if only momentarily. It suggests a human tendency to find levity in unexpected places and to use humor as a coping mechanism during difficult times.


"The secret of life is to know that every minute spent on Earth is 60 seconds of happiness squandered if not enjoyed."

This quote suggests that one should strive to find enjoyment and happiness in each moment of their life, as every second is fleeting. It's a reminder to make the most of our time on Earth, rather than wasting it on trivial matters or dwelling on negativity. In essence, it encourages us to live passionately, mindfully, and joyously.


Most jokes state a bitter truth.

- Larry Gelbart

Truth, Most, Bitter Truth, Jokes

If vaudeville had died, television was the box they put it in.

- Larry Gelbart

Television, Box, Had, Vaudeville

One doesn't have a sense of humor. It has you.

- Larry Gelbart

Humor, You, Sense, Sense Of Humor

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