Being a star has made it possible for me to get insulted in places where the average Negro could never hope to go and get insulted.

Fame will go by and, so long, I’ve had you, fame. If it goes by, I’ve always known it was fickle. So at least it’s something I experienced, but that’s not where I live.

Happy is the man who hath never known what it is to taste of fame—to have it is a purgatory, to want it is a hell!

What a heavy burden is a name that has become too famous.

I’m afraid of losing my obscurity. Genuineness only thrives in the dark. Like celery.

Possessions, outward success, publicity, luxury—to me these have always been contemptible. I believe that a simple and unassuming manner of life is best for everyone, best both for the body and the mind.