P. T. Barnum Quotes

The noblest art is that of making others happy.

– P. T. Barnum

P. T. Barnum: I brought hardship on you and our family. You warned me… and I wouldn’t listen. I just… I wanted to be more than I was.

Charity Barnum: I never wanted anything but the man I fell in love with.

P. T. Barnum:

I drank champagne with kings and queens

The politicians praised my name

But those are someone else’s dreams

The pitfalls of the man I became

For years and years

I chased their cheers

The crazy speed of always needing more

But when I stop

And see you here

I remember who all this was for

P. T. Barnum:

A man learns who is there for him

When the glitter fades and the walls won’t hold

‘Cause from then, rubble

What remains

Can only be what’s true

Jenny Lind: When you’re careless with other people, Mr. Barnum… you bring ruin upon yourself.

P. T. Barnum: I have risked everything.

Jenny Lind: Well, so did I. And it seems we both lost.

P. T. Barnum: You don’t understand. How could you? My father was treated like dirt. I was treated like dirt, and my children will not be.

Charity Barnum: You don’t need everyone to love you, Phin. Just a few good people.

Jenny Lind: May I ask you something, Mr. Barnum?

P. T. Barnum: Anything.

Jenny Lind: Why me?

P. T. Barnum: People come to my show for the pleasure of being hoodwinked. Just once, I’d love to give them something real.

P. T. Barnum (to Phillip):

I can cut you free

Out of the drudgery and walls you keep in

So trade that typical for something colorful

And if it’s crazy, live a little crazy