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Marty Feldman Quotes

Powerful Marty Feldman for Daily Growth

About Marty Feldman

**Marty Feldman** (July 4, 1934 – December 2, 1982) was a prolific British comedy actor, writer, and director, best known for his distinctive, bug-eyed appearance and comedic roles in various films and television shows. Born **Martin Alan Feldman** in Hampshire, England, he grew up in a Jewish family with strong roots in the entertainment industry. His father, Sam Feldman, was a successful songwriter and bandleader, and his aunt was the famous Vera-Ellen, a dancer and actress who appeared in several MGM musicals. Feldman's career began in radio and television, where he worked as a writer and occasional performer. His breakout role came in 1963 when he played Conehead Igor on the British satirical TV show "That Was The Week That Was." This led to more significant roles in various British sitcoms and films. In the late 1960s, Feldman moved to Hollywood, where he found great success in film, particularly with Mel Brooks, who cast him as Igor in "Young Frankenstein" (1974) and as the hapless Arthur Pewtee in "Silent Movie" (1976). His distinctive features and peculiar acting style made him an instantly recognizable figure and a favorite among comedy fans. Throughout his career, Feldman also wrote and directed several films, including "The Last Remake of Beau Geste" (1967), which he co-wrote with Brooks, and "In God We Tru$t" (1980). Despite his success, Feldman struggled with health issues, including a severe form of psoriasis that affected his eyesight and caused him considerable pain. Marty Feldman died on December 2, 1982, at the age of 48, from a pulmonary embolism. His impact on comedy continues to be felt today, with many modern comedians citing him as an influence. Known for his unique brand of humor and unforgettable performances, Marty Feldman remains a beloved figure in the world of comedy.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"I'm eighty percent water, like a bottled mineral. But I can't be opened and shaken for refreshment."

This quote by Marty Feldman humorously compares himself to a bottled mineral water, acknowledging the high percentage of water in the human body (about 60%). However, unlike a bottle of water that can be opened for refreshment, he points out the obvious fact that people cannot. The humor lies in drawing a parallel between an inanimate object and a living being, emphasizing the peculiarity of being human.

"I was born a coward; it's the only autobiography that can be written in crayon."

Marty Feldman humorously expresses his innate fearfulness or timidity in this quote, suggesting that even an autobiography - a personal account of one's life - could be easily depicted using childlike crayons, symbolizing simplicity and lack of complexity due to his basic emotional makeup. This quote serves as a self-deprecating reminder that individuals may have inherent traits shaping their experiences and actions, in this case, a natural cowardice or apprehension, which can influence the course of their lives.

"I never thought I would die, but I was afraid that I might."

This quote highlights a common human fear - mortality. Despite not expecting or wishing to die, it is natural to be apprehensive about the possibility of death due to the uncertainty and finality it represents. The fear of death can manifest in various ways, such as anxiety, worry, or even avoidance of certain situations. This quote, therefore, underscores the human struggle with understanding and accepting mortality.

"You know, they say that life is a joke, and laughter is the best medicine. Well, that's all very well, but no one told Monkey."

This quote suggests a contrast between the perceived universal truth of laughter providing solace and healing (a "joke" being a source of amusement) and the personal, unique struggles and pain an individual may experience (represented here by "Monkey"). It underscores that while humor can be beneficial to many, it may not be enough for those going through challenging times. In essence, the quote highlights the need for empathy and understanding when dealing with others' difficulties, as their experiences may not always align with the uplifting and therapeutic effects of laughter.

"In this world there are only two tragedies. One is not getting what one wants, and the other is getting it."

This quote by Marty Feldman suggests that the essence of human struggle lies in our desires. The first tragedy is experiencing the disappointment of not achieving desired goals or outcomes; the second tragedy is obtaining what was desired but finding it falls short of expectations or brings unintended negative consequences. Essentially, it highlights the tension between wanting and having, emphasizing the complexities and potential disillusionment inherent in human striving and attainment.

The pen is mightier than the sword, and is considerably easier to write with.

- Marty Feldman

Pen, Than, Considerably, Sword

The pen is mightier than the sword, and considerably easier to write with.

- Marty Feldman

Pen, Than, Considerably, Sword

I don't know any jokes, which is embarrassing. I wish I did.

- Marty Feldman

Wish, I Wish, Which, Jokes

I won't eat anything that has intelligent life, but I'd gladly eat a network executive or a politician.

- Marty Feldman

Politician, Executive, Gladly

Money can't buy poverty.

- Marty Feldman

Money, Buy, Poverty

I am too old to die young, and too young to grow up.

- Marty Feldman

I Am, Die, Grow, Grow Up

I don't want to be a director. I want to direct. There's a difference.

- Marty Feldman

Want, Director, Direct, Difference

Comedy, like sodomy, is an unnatural act.

- Marty Feldman

Comedy, Act, Like, Unnatural

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