Laurence Olivier quotes - page 2

Laurence Olivier was an acclaimed English actor and director, considered one of the greatest stage and film performers of the 20th century. His powerful presence and innovative interpretations brought new life to classic roles, especially in Shakespearean drama. He was known for his immense versatility and won numerous prestigious awards throughout his distinguished career. Here are 39 of his quotes:

I'd like people to remember me for a diligent expert workman. I think a poet is a workman. I think Shakespeare was a workman. And God's a workman. I don't think there's anything better than a workman.

Laurence Olivier

Life is enthusiasm, zest.

Laurence Olivier

Acting, is not a profession for adults.

Laurence Olivier

We ape, we mimic, we mock. We act.

Laurence Olivier

The office of drama is to exercise, possibly to exhaust, human emotions. The purpose of comedy is to tickle those emotions into an expression of light relief; of tragedy, to wound them and bring the relief of tears. Disgust and terror are the other points of the compass.

Laurence Olivier

If he was lost for a moment, he would dive straight back into its honey.

Laurence Olivier

The actor should be able to create the universe in the palm of his hand.

Laurence Olivier

My stage successes have provided me with the greatest moments outside myself, my film successes the best moments, professionally, within myself.

Laurence Olivier

Nine books have been written about me, and there's not a word of truth in any of them.

Laurence Olivier

Without acting, I cannot breathe.

Laurence Olivier

I often think that could we creep behind the actor's eyes, we would find an attic of forgotten toys and a copy of the Domesday Book.

Laurence Olivier

Art is a little bit larger than life - it's an exhalation of life and I think you probably need a little touch of madness.

Laurence Olivier