The audience. They see the name Mel Brooks, they want something really funny. They don't want to be moved; they don't want to be taught any lessons. [...] I get more letters for Twelve Chairs and Life Stinks than I get from any other movies, because people actually agree with the philosophy, or were moved, or they love the movie.

Every human being has hundreds of separate people living under his skin. The talent of a writer is his ability to give them their separate names, identities, personalities and have them relate to other characters living with him.

Good taste is the enemy of comedy.

I always thought it was great to be able to make people feel better. It was a little like being God.

The egg cream is psychologically the opposite of circumcision--it pleasurably reaffirms your Jewishness.

I don't have a mission. I don't have a torch to burn.

If you're alive, make a lot of noise, because life is the very opposite of death.