Brooklyn Quotes: Discovering Hip Wisdom with a Dash of Wit

Get a taste of Brooklyn’s unique flavor with a collection of quotes capturing its gritty charm, diverse culture, and vibrant energy.

Iconic Quotes From Brooklynites

iconic quotes from brooklynites

“Brooklyn’s got a rhythm.” Jay-Z immortalized this in his song “Brooklyn’s Finest.” It’s not just about the beats; it’s the essence of the borough. Another classic comes from comedian Mel Brooks: “Tragedy is when I cut my finger. Comedy is when you fall into an open sewer and die.” Only Brooklyn-born could make you laugh and wince simultaneously.

Actress and icon Barbra Streisand summed up Brooklyn pride with, “I’m just a simple girl from Brooklyn.” Understated yet confident, just like the neighborhood. Then there’s late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who remembered it fondly, saying, “I grew up in Brooklyn, attended public school, and I have never forgotten those roots.”

Famed writer Truman Capote also had a soft spot for Brooklyn, “I live in Brooklyn. By choice.” Short, sweet, and to the point. Perfectly encapsulates how those who live there feel a unique connection.

Famous Movie Quotes About Brooklyn

“Brooklyn: It’s not a neighborhood, it’s a primal scream,” says Frances McDormand’s character in the movie *City by the Sea*. This line packs a punch, capturing Brooklyn’s raw energy and grit.

Remember *Saturday Night Fever*? John Travolta’s character declares, “You know, the one thing I could never figure is why some people are so rich and some people are so poor.” A dance and a deep thought from Brooklyn!

From the indie film *Brooklyn*, Saoirse Ronan’s character gives us this gem: “Brooklyn is home because that’s where I feel most comfortable.” Home is where the pizza is?

*Do The Right Thing* offers wisdom too. When Mookie yells, “Always do the right thing,” it’s like Brooklyn’s unofficial motto. And yes, pizza again!

Brooklyn isn’t just a location; it’s a character. It steals the show, one quote at a time.

Song Lyrics Celebrating Brooklyn

Ah, Brooklyn – the muse of musicians and the beat in numerous tracks. Jay-Z gave us “Empire State of Mind,” where Brooklyn is more than a borough; it’s a state of mind, ringing louder than his Yankees cap. Meanwhile, Notorious B.I.G. had us vibing with “Juicy,” painting his rise from street corners to mansions, a testament to Brooklyn hustle.

Let’s not forget Vampire Weekend’s “Step,” where Brooklyn is serenaded like a long-lost lover, making indie hearts flutter. It’s a place where creativity flows as smooth as their guitar riffs. And who can resist Ella Fitzgerald’s jazz classic “A-Tisket, A-Tasket,” which isn’t about Brooklyn per se, but feels as homey and timeless as a vintage Brooklyn brownstone.

Brooklyn’s heartbeat pulses through these lyrics, turning everyday moments into legendary tales. Each song captures Brooklyn’s spirit, its unending ability to inspire both grit and dreams.

Brooklyn-Inspired Literature Quotes

“I remember Brooklyn not as a place to live, but as a place to die.” – Gabriel García Márquez. Literary giants aren’t shy about spotlighting Brooklyn’s gritty charm. You can almost feel the raw emotion in Márquez’s words, like a gritty novel come to life.

Then there’s Betty Smith, who nailed it with, “There’s a tree that grows in Brooklyn. Some people call it the Tree of Heaven. No matter where its seed falls, it makes a tree which struggles to reach the sky.” What a perfect metaphor for resilience! Brooklynites are like that tree, always reaching for the sky, no matter what.

Walt Whitman paints an evocative picture: “Crossing Brooklyn Ferry, what is that you express in your eyes? It is the same to me; I meet you on the threshold.” Whitman captures Brooklyn’s timeless, magnetic allure, making you feel like you’re on that ferry with him, gazing at the skyline.

Simple, yet profound, these quotes reveal Brooklyn as more than just a borough. It’s a muse, a character in its own right, stirring the souls of those who live there—and those who write about it.

Comedy Quotes From Brooklyn Comics

Brooklyn has given us some of the most iconic comedians, and their quotes are pure gold. Take Mel Brooks, for example. He once quipped, “As long as the world is turning and spinning, we’re gonna be dizzy and we’re gonna make mistakes.” Classic Brooklyn humor, right? It’s all about embracing the chaos!

Who could forget Joan Rivers? She had that no-holds-barred attitude with lines like, “I hate housework! You make the beds, you do the dishes – and six months later you have to start all over again.” It’s the kind of humor that’s delightfully blunt and utterly relatable.

Even modern comics like Chris Rock keep that Brooklyn edge sharp. Remember when he said, “Wealth is not about having a lot of money; it’s about having a lot of options.” Simple, profound, and just a little cheeky.

These quotes capture the essence of Brooklyn humor: straightforward, unapologetic, and irresistibly funny. Perfect for injecting a bit of New York attitude into your day!

Reflective Quotes From Brooklyn Writers

“Brooklyn is not the easiest place to live, but it’s a very interesting place to live. There are a lot of stories here.” – Paul Auster

Paul Auster’s words remind us that Brooklyn’s charm lies in its rich tapestry of narratives. Each street corner whispers tales of triumph, struggle, and transformation.

“I live in Brooklyn. I’m distinct from everyone else because everyone is different in Brooklyn.” – Don DeLillo

DeLillo captures Brooklyn’s eclectic vibe perfectly. In a borough where diversity reigns supreme, every resident adds a unique flavor to the mix.

“Brooklyn is a place where the future is born.” – Betty Smith

Author Betty Smith sees Brooklyn as a cradle of aspirations and dreams. Ain’t that poetic? This borough is fertile ground for ambition to take root and bloom.

So, the next time you stroll through the brownstone-lined streets or grab a slice from that tiny pizzeria, remember: Brooklyn’s got layers, and writers are here to peel them back one word at a time. Can you dig it?

Quotes From Brooklyn Political Figures

“Politics is not a game,” said Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman elected to Congress. She hailed from Brooklyn and her tenacity matched her words. “Service is the rent we pay for the privilege of living on this earth.”

Now, let’s chat about Bernie Sanders, born in Brooklyn. He once quipped, “You’ve got to put political pressure on these people.” Bernie’s roots reflect his feisty and relentless drive.

And who could forget Ruth Bader Ginsburg? While better known for her tenure on the Supreme Court, this Brooklynite once said, “Fight for the things that you care about, but do it in a way that will lead others to join you.” Pragmatic with a sprinkle of inspiration.

Brooklyn political figures distribute wisdom like pizza joints hand out slices; generously and with just enough edge to keep it interesting!

Memorable Sports Quotes From Brooklyn Athletes

“Brooklyn’s not just a place—it’s a state of mind,” laughed Michael Jordan, the basketball legend. And oh, how the Nets have made that state of mind a thrilling ride! Remember when Kevin Durant said, “I don’t mind taking the big shot”? Ice-cold confidence!

Then there’s Jackie Robinson, the trailblazing Dodger: “A life is not important except in the impact it has on other lives.” Wise words, Jackie. This guy didn’t just break barriers; he shattered them.

Even in boxing, Brooklyn born Mike Tyson’s quote is unforgettable: “Everyone has a plan ’till they get punched in the mouth.” Ain’t that the truth, Mike?

Don’t forget Larry Brown, esteemed coach: “All I want to do is change the world, one jump shot at a time.” Brooklyn dreams big, shoots big.

Brooklyn athletes don’t just play; they share wisdom—often with a side of swagger—adding to the borough’s vibrant legacy. Who’s next up for a quote-worthy moment?

Brooklyn in TV Shows: Quips & Quotes

Brooklyn isn’t just a place; it’s practically a character in many TV shows.

From “Brooklyn Nine-Nine,” we get gems like Jake Peralta’s unending enthusiasm: “Cool, cool, cool, cool, cool, no doubt, no doubt, no doubt.” It’s like coffee for the soul.

“Girls” brings out the artsy side with quotes like, “I’m just trying to make my rent,” perfectly summing up the hipster hustle.

Then there’s “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” where Midge Maisel quips, “Brooklyn isn’t exactly the Paris of New York.” Touché.

Get ready for some serious Brooklyn love (and sarcasm).