Actor
Whitman College, 2013
Eric Idle, the celebrated comedian and one of the members of the legendary British comedy group Monty Python, delivered a commencement address at Whitman College in 2013. Known for his wit and comedic genius, Idle shared valuable life lessons with his unique blend of humor and wisdom.
10 top life lessons by Eric Idle
- Graduation day is a memorable occasion that stays with you, even if the specifics fade.
- Today’s speech adheres to a strict code: No bad language, no violence, and definitely no nudity.
- Humorous self-deprecation adds charm; Idle jokes about being chosen over the Kardashians.
- Being asked not to be rude is akin to inviting a boxer and forbidding them to throw punches.
- Post-college life is a mix of debts, taxes, jobs, marriages, divorces, and general chaos.
- Playing beer pong five years from now might signify a misguided path.
- Post-college is a departure from paradise, entering a world of debts, taxes, and inevitable challenges.
- Idle tactfully treads on sensitive topics, poking fun at American sensitivity and British emotional reserve.
- English irony: standing in the rain to cheer for royalty; the Queen’s reign is literal due to the weather.
- The post-ironic age is declared after George Bush gets a library; irony is dead, according to Idle.
Best quotes of Eric Idle‘s speech
"Life has a very simple plot: first you're here and then you're not.""Learn to trust yourself. That's very vital… Just stand with yourself."
Video of Eric Idle‘s Commencement speech at Whitman College
Commencement speech transcript
Commencement Speech: “There’s No Time Like the Pleasant”
“Learn to trust yourself. That’s very vital… Just stand with yourself. Remember, in his lifetime, Van Gogh sold only two paintings. I personally sold even fewer.”
Life has a very simple plot: first you’re here and then you’re not.
The rendition of his classic hit: “Always Look on the Bright Side of Love”
More one-liners from Eric Idle’s speech here:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/gillian-frew/17-funniest-lines-from-monty-python-star_b_3315378.html