Totie Fields Quotes

Powerful Totie Fields for Daily Growth

About Totie Fields

Totie Fields (born Tottie Feiwel on August 19, 1923 – died December 7, 1974) was an American comedian, actress, and singer who made a significant impact in the male-dominated world of stand-up comedy during the mid-20th century. Born in New York City to Jewish immigrant parents from Romania, Fields grew up in a poor neighborhood in Brooklyn. She dropped out of school at age 13 to support her family by working as a cigarette girl and factory worker. It was during this period that she developed her quick wit and sharp humor, honing her comedic skills through improvisation and humorously dealing with life's challenges. Fields began her career in the early 1950s, first on radio before moving to television with appearances on shows like The Ed Sullivan Show and The Steve Allen Show. She is perhaps best known for her numerous guest appearances on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, where she became a frequent and beloved guest. Fields' comedy was characterized by her rapid-fire delivery, self-deprecating humor, and keen observations about life, relationships, and the human condition. Her material often dealt with topics like dating, marriage, and motherhood, which resonated with audiences. She was known for her ability to turn seemingly mundane situations into hilarious anecdotes. Despite her success, Fields struggled with substance abuse throughout her career, which contributed to her early death from a heart attack at the age of 51. Her life and work continue to inspire comedians today, and she is remembered as a trailblazer for women in comedy. Some of her most famous quotes include: "You can't be a real country until you have a beer and an airline," "Divorce isn't such a tragedy. I've had two myself," and "I'm so fat, when I go to the beach, they send me a picture postcard."

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Life is short. Smile while you still have teeth."

This quote by Totie Fields emphasizes that life is fleeting, and we should take joy in our experiences while we can. The phrase "Smile while you still have teeth" is a humorous way of saying appreciate the present moment, as it implies one's ability to smile, which requires healthy teeth, may not last forever. In essence, the quote encourages us to find happiness and enjoy life fully, knowing that time may pass quickly and opportunities may be limited.


"You can't be a maid and keep any secrets."

This quote by Totie Fields implies that working as a maid or domestic worker, which traditionally involves intimate access to people's private lives, makes it difficult to maintain secrets due to the nature of their profession. Confidentiality may be compromised because they are privy to sensitive information and interactions on a daily basis, thus making it challenging for them to keep secrets.


"I'm at the age where food has tattoos."

This quote by Totie Fields humorously conveys the notion of advanced age, where the visible signs of food consumption on one's body (e.g., wrinkles or stains) become more pronounced, resembling tattoos. It underscores the inevitable physical changes that come with growing older, while maintaining a lighthearted and amusing tone.


"If we're not supposed to eat animals, then why are they made out of meat?"

This quote by Totie Fields humorously questions the purpose of animals in our diet if they are not intended for consumption. It satirically suggests that, if animals are indeed "made out of meat," it would seem logical to conclude that they exist solely for us to eat, as their physical makeup seemingly aligns with their intended purpose. However, this quote also subtly raises philosophical questions about the ethics and morality of eating animals and our relationship with them in a broader cultural and societal context.


"Ain't no man worth having if he can only holler at his mama."

This quote by Totie Fields emphasizes the value of a partner who respects and values others, particularly women, beyond their familial ties. The statement suggests that a man who can only express affection or interest towards someone (in this case, a mother figure) lacks the ability to develop emotional connections with partners. In other words, the quote implies that a real, valuable relationship requires empathy, maturity, and an understanding of one's partner as an individual rather than just an extension of their family.


I've been on a diet for two weeks and all I've lost is two weeks.

- Totie Fields

Diet, Been, Weeks, Two Weeks

Shirley Temple had charisma as a child. But it cleared up as an adult.

- Totie Fields

Had, Up, Shirley, Temple

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