A Society Clown: Reminiscences
1888
A Society Clown: Reminiscences is a collection of autobiographical sketches by George Grossmith, first published in 1888. The book chronicles Grossmith's journey from amateur entertainer to professional clown, offering insights into the late 19th-century entertainment culture. With a lighthearted tone and self-deprecating humor, Grossmith shares personal anecdotes, early memories, and reflections on the nature of autobiographies, making it a notable work for those interested in theatrical history and biography.
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“I never was so immensely tickled by anything I had ever said before. I actually woke up twice during the night, and laughed till the bed shook.””
— George Grossmith
“What's the good of a home, if you are never in it?””
— George Grossmith
“Some people seem quite destitute a sense of humour.””
— George Grossmith
“. . . doesn't it seem odd that Gowing's always coming and Cummings' always going?””
— George Grossmith
“Charlie dear, it is I who have to be proud of you. And I am very, very proud of you. You have called me pretty; and as long as I am pretty in your eyes, I am happy. You, dear old Charlie, are not handsome, but you are good, which is far more noble.””
— George Grossmith
“He said he wouldn’t stay, as he didn’t care much for the smell of the paint, and fell over the scraper as he went out. Must get the scraper removed, or else I shall get into a scrape. I don’t often make jokes.””
— George Grossmith
“I believe I am happy because I am not ambitious.””
— George Grossmith
“He may wear what he likes in the future, for I shall never drive with him again. His conduct was shocking. When we passed Highgate Archway, he tried to pass everything and everybody. He shouted to respectable people who were walking quietly in the road to get out of the way; he flicked at the horse of an old man who was riding, causing it to rear; and, as I had to ride backwards, I was compelled to face a gang of roughs in a donkey-cart, whom Lupin had chaffed, and who turned and followed us for nearly a mile, bellowing, indulging in coarse jokes and laughter, to say nothing of occasionally pelting us with orange-peel.””
— George Grossmith
“It’s concerning you both; for doesn’t it seem odd that Gowing’s always coming and Cummings’ always going?” ””
— George Grossmith
