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About this quote

What does it mean?
The speaker humorously suggests that praising Fred Astaire's tap dancing skills is so impactful it could start a war.
In plain terms
Praising Fred Astaire is so strong it might cause a fight.
What can you take from it?
Sometimes praise can be hyperbolic for effect.

Where it applies

  • entertainment commentary
  • casual conversation
  • tribute

Putting it to work

  • writing reviews
  • speechwriting
  • humor

Questions to consider

  • How much praise is too much?
  • What makes art worth fighting for?

Another view

The statement is clearly hyperbolic and not meant literally.

More from Fred Astaire

  1. It was on tiny wheels with a mount for the camera that put the lens about two feet above the ground. On it rode the camera operator and the assistant who chang…

    Permalink to quote #41
  2. Mr. Astaire is the nearest approach we are ever likely to have to a human Mickey Mouse; he might have been drawn by Mr. Walt Disney, with his quick physical wi…

    Permalink to quote #43
  3. He is a truly complex fellow, not unlike the Michelangelos and da Vincis of the Renaissance period. He's a supreme artist but he is constantly filled with doub…

    Permalink to quote #40

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