I never felt I belonged. I was always an outsider.

I don't care to dress up except when it is necessary or good for my business.

I'm not afraid to die. I'm looking forward to it. I know the Lord has His arms wrapped around this big sparrow.

I had a probing mind and an elephant memory.

The white audiences thought I was white, my features being what they are, and at every performance I'd have to take off my gloves to prove I was a spade.

In her whole life Mom never earned more than five or six dollars a week. Being without a husband, it was hard for her to find any place at all for us to live.

I want affection and tenderness desperately, but there's something in me that prevents me from handing it out.