All my life, to this day, the memory of my childhood remains grim and incoherent. If I close my eyes and think back, I see little except violence and fear. In those early years, I somehow came to understand I would have to draw from within myself whatever emotional resources I needed to go wherever I was headed. As a result, for years, I became a boy who lived almost totally within himself.

Kids ... Can't live with 'em ... Can't shoot 'em!

Wine, it's in my veins and I can't get it out.

I was born a character actor. I was never really a leading man type.

I'll just take amusement at being a paradox.

Like the seasons of the year, life changes frequently and drastically. You enjoy it or endure it as it comes and goes, as it ebbs and flows.

Franchot Tone is nuttier than a fruitcake, so don't let the genteel frosting fool you.