Everything that can be invented has been invented. -- Charles H. Duell, Commissioner, U.S. Office of Patents, 1899.

Who the hell wants to hear actors talk? -- H.M. Warner, Warner Brothers, 1927.

Ah, well, then I suppose I shall have to die beyond my means.

I have offended God and mankind because my work didn't reach the quality it should have.

Dear World, I am leaving you because I am bored. I feel I have lived long enough. I am leaving you with your worries in this sweet cesspool - good luck.

The concept is interesting and well-formed, but in order to earn better than a 'C,' the idea must be feasible. -- A Yale University management professor in response to Fred Smith's paper proposing reliable overnight delivery service. (Smith went on to found Federal Express Corp.).