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Meaning
The quote says entertainment can rise to the level of art, but only as a result, not as a goal. It suggests that trying too hard to make something “art” can get in the way of making it effective or enjoyable. The blunt final phrase gives the statement a dismissive, irreverent tone.
When It Was Said
Not documented yet.
Who It Was Said To
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Historical Context
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Source
Not documented yet.
Original Language & Translation
Originally said in English.
Did They Really Say It?
No source found on Wikiquote; the quote is listed as attributed.
Did You Know?
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About Steve Martin
American comedian, actor, writer, producer, and musician
Steve Martin is an American comedian, actor, writer, producer, and musician. He is known for his work in comedy films, television, and recording, and he has been a major figure in American comedy across several decades. His honors include five Grammy Awards, a Primetime Emmy Award, and a Screen Actors Guild Award. He was also nominated for eight Golden Globe Awards and two Tony Awards, and received the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor in 2005, the Kennedy Center Honors in 2007, an Honorary Academy Award in 2013, and an AFI Life Achievement Award in 2015. In 2004, Comedy Central ranked him sixth on its list of the 100 greatest stand-up comics.
More from Steve Martin (110 quotes) →Keep reading Steve Martin
- “It's a mystery to me the way that contemporary art galleries function.”Steve Martin
- “Comedy is the art of making people laugh without making them puke.”Steve Martin
- “I believe that sex is one of the most beautiful, natural, wholesome things that money can buy.”Steve Martin
- “I was not naturally talented. I didn't sing, dance or act, though working around that minor detail made me in…”Steve Martin
Explore Art
- “I think - for a period of time, I did think art was there to serve me, but it took me a minute to reset.”Mike Posner
- “Time and memory are true artists; they remould reality nearer to the heart's desire.”John Dewey
- “If someone wants to think what I do is somewhat artistic, that's fine, but I'm not looking to be necessarily…”Ken Wahl
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Books by Steve Martin
Born standing up
2007
Shopgirl
2000