In some situations I was difficult, in odd moments impossible, in rare moments loathsome, but at my best unapproachably great.
I envy people who drink. At least they have something to blame everything on.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote expresses a sense of envy towards those who can attribute their problems to alcohol, highlighting the burden of personal accountability.
Oscar Levant's quote reflects a humorous yet poignant observation about the nature of blame and personal responsibility. It suggests that those who indulge in drinking can escape their troubles by attributing their misfortunes to alcohol, while individuals who do not drink must confront their challenges head-on. This sentiment reveals an underlying irony about the human condition, where the inability to blame something external can sometimes feel like a heavier burden.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
During a toast at a friend's birthday party, when discussing the challenges of life and coping mechanisms.
More from Oscar Levant
All quotes βWhen I appeared before the draft board examiner during World War II, he asked me if I thought I could kill. "I don't know about strangers," I replied, "but friends, certainly."
I have no trouble with y enemies. But my god damn friends... they are the ones that keep me walking the floors at night.
I'm a study of a man in chaos in search of frenzy.
Roses are red, violets are blue, I'm schizophrenic, and so am I.
The only difference between the Democrats and the Republicans is that the Democrats allow the poor to be corrupt, too.
Similar quotes
I know what you're thinking. Did he fire six shots or only five? Well, to tell you the truth, in all this excitement, I've kinda lost track myself. But being as this is a .44 magnum, the most powerful handgun in the world, and would blow your head clean off, you've got to ask yourself one question: "Do I feel lucky?" Well, do ya, punk?
I never worry about diets. The only carrots that interest me are the number of carats in a diamond.
EMOTION, n. A prostrating disease caused by a determination of the heart to the head. It is sometimes accompanied by a copious discharge of hydrated chloride of sodium from the eyes.
My character is self-important, poorly informed, well-intentioned but an idiot. So we said, `Let's give him a promotion.'
All higher humor begins with ceasing to take oneself seriously.
I wish my name was Brian because maybe sometimes people would misspell my name and call me Brain. That's like a free compliment and you don't even gotta be smart to notice it.