Quotessence
Home / Quotes / Quote by Quentin Crisp

Quote by Quentin Crisp

“If sophistication is a matter of being in control of our primary reactions, we may now be sophisticated. At least we shall be fairly confident of ourselves and may, with any luck, be confident of others. Our object will be to enjoy our selves. But to make sure that our names are permanently on the cast list, it will be advisable to be of interest to others. This aim must never be confused with the desire to be popular.”

Quote by Quentin Crisp

Author

Quentin Crisp
Quentin Crisp

Quentin Crisp (December 25, 1908 – November 21, 1999) was an English writer, actor, and social commentator, best known for his flamboyant style and open homosexuality during a time of widespread prejudice. Born Denis Charles Pratt in Sutton, London, he later adopted the name Quentin Crisp. His 1968 autobiography, 'The Naked Civil Servant,' chronicled his life as an openly gay man in conservative Britain, and was adapted into a critically acclaimed TV film starring John Hurt. Crisp also wrote 'How to Have a Style' and 'Manners from Heaven,' and appeared in films like 'Orlando' and 'The Bride.' He moved to New York in the 1980s, becoming a cultural icon known for his wit and advocacy of individuality. He died in Manchester at age 90. more

You May Also Like

“Balance and control come from healthy anger. This is just as aggressive as the unhealthy kind. But it is based on a belief and hope for change in social roles and institutions. Healthy anger demands change and creates the confrontations needed for change to occur. It also gives the other an opportunity to help make that change. “Our task, of course, is to transmute the anger that is affliction into the anger that is determination to bring about change. I think, in fact, that one could give that as a definition of revolution.”