Colley Cibber was a renowned English actor-manager and poet laureate. He was a pioneer in the genre of sentimental comedy. He had a humble start to life like many of his contemporaries and was expected to join the church as an adult. His interest in stage compelled him to go against his father’s wishes to pursue a career in drama. He joined the Theatre Royal as an unsalaried apprentice at the age of 12. Initially, he got small roles there which could not bring him much appreciation. He also got married during the same time and had to struggle a lot as the compensation was very low to survive. This motivated him to pen-down a play titled ‘Love’s Last Shift’ where he wrote a role for himself. Although his character was not the lead, he used it to portray his prolific comic skills. This is believed to have established his successful career and he went on to write various dramas which helped him gain fame and popularity among the masses. The writings, work, plays, thoughts and books are remembered for their poetical and pillory style. Go through the quotes and thoughts by Colley Cibber which will teach you some important lessons of life in a hilarious manner.
Tea! thou soft, sober, sage and venerable liquid;- thou female tongue-running, smile-smoothing, heart-opening, wink-tippling cordial, to whose glorious insipidity I owe the happiest moment of my life, let me fall prostrate.
The wretch that fears to drown, will break through flames;
Or, in his dread of flames, will plunge in waves.
When eagles are in view, the screaming doves
Will cower beneath the feet of man for safety.
Who fears t' offend takes the first step to please.
Colley Cibber
The aspiring youth that fired the Ephesian domeOutlives in fame the pious fool that rais'd it.
Colley Cibber
Wit is the most rascally, contemptible, beggarly thing on the face of the earth.
Colley Cibber
Words are but empty thanks.
Colley Cibber
Stolen sweets are best.
Colley Cibber
Losers must have leave to speak.
Colley Cibber
I've lately had two spiders Crawling upon my startled hopes-- Now though thy friendly hand has brushed 'em from me, Yet still they crawl offensive to mine eyes: I would have some kind friend to tread upon 'em.
When we are conscious of the least comparative merit in ourselves, we should take as much care to conceal the value we set upon it, as if it were a real defect; to be elated or vain upon it is showing your money before people in want.
