As a journalist, Robin Williams is the sort of person I would have loved to interview, not just because Mrs. Doubtfire was one of my favourite films growing up. From his thought provoking stand up comedy to his thoughtful roles in movies like Good Will Hunting, Williams genuinely strikes you as someone with powerful thoughts who was able to communicate those thoughts with ease and eloquence.
Even when you consider how he took his own life, you can see that Robin Williams thought about things in an incredibly deep way that ultimately led him to decide that was the route to take. A decision many of us still grieve to this day.
I hope the following collection of quotes will make you laugh to the point of crying, ponder to the point of questioning yourself and inspire you to the point where you get out there and do something fantastic.
1. "No matter what people tell you, words and ideas can change the world."
Robin Williams famously stated this in one of his most renowned movies, Dead Poets Society. The movie, which was released in 1989, tells the story of a teacher (Robin Williams), who aspires to inspire his students with poetry.2. “Comedy is acting out optimism."
At first glance, it's hard to figure out exactly what Williams was saying here. But that's the cool thing about the quote – it makes you think and come to a conclusion likely different from anyone else's. My interpretation is that Williams is saying comics have a sense of optimism they hope their often critical and satirical work will help deliver.3. “Cocaine is God's way of telling you you are making too much money."
Robin Williams was addicted to cocaine through the '70s and '80s. And let's face it, if you have the financial ability to maintain a coke habit, you're certainly not one of those starving artist types.4. “Never pick a fight with an ugly person, they've got nothing to lose."
Brilliant life advice from a rather dapper looking man.