"Fame is being asked to sign your autograph on the back of a cigarette packet"
- Billy Connolly
About this Quote
In this quote, comic Billy Connolly is highlighting the shallow nature of popularity. He compares the act of signing an autograph to something as mundane as a cigarette packet, suggesting that popularity is typically lowered to a simple signature on a disposable item. This recommends that popularity is not about real talent or accomplishment, but rather about being acknowledged and demanded by others. Connolly's usage of the word "asked" also suggests that fame is not earned, however rather bestowed upon somebody by others. In general, this quote sheds light on the shallow and fleeting nature of fame in our society.
"They're talking about banning cigarette smoking now in any place that's used by ten or more people in a week, which, I guess, means that Madonna can't even smoke in bed"
"The gunner's mate came up and started breaking the locks on the ammunition. Everything was locked up for fear that someone might go in there with a cigarette or something"