On his death bed, he supposedly asked his banker, 'Do I have enough money to buy all the children of Philadelphia a bike each?' The banker looked at his notes and said yes. Fields stayed quiet for a moment in deep thought and replied 'Well fuck 'em!'
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Despite apparent generosity, the speaker reveals a cynical self-interest when faced with a charitable suggestion.
- In plain terms
- He thought about giving money but decided not to at the last second.
- What can you take from it?
- Generosity can be shallow when tested.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Would you give away your fortune?
- Is legacy more important than giving?
Another view
It relies on an unverified anecdote about his death.
More from W. C. Fields
A lot of people have bad luck. They should just be like Fields and not give a fuck.
Permalink to quote #75 I'm looking for loopholes. [Said when caught reading the Bible.]
Permalink to quote #77 I note the derogatory rumors concerning my use of alcoholic stimulants and lavish living. It is the penalty of greatness.
Permalink to quote #74
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