From the Vault: Quentin Crisp

“You see, I speak only of happiness because it’s the only thing I understand. And I do want people to understand that happiness is not out there, it’s in here. And it doesn’t matter what other people think of you. What matters is what you think of yourself. And if I can get people to do that I’ve . . . it’s a triumph. Because that is the whole point.” - Quentin Crisp

This week on From the Vault we listen to the voice of one of the most unique figures of the 20th century: Quentin Crisp. Mr. Crisp died in November 1999, and New York City, his adopted home for the last 18 years of his life, held a memorial for him soon after.

A remarkable collection of people came to give their remembrances and Pacifica was there to record the event. We bring you that amazing event, along with selections from interviews and performances Mr. Crisp gave throughout his life.

We’ll also hear Jessica Schuman speaking with Mr. Crisp in 1978 in an interview she did for Los Angeles’ KPFK.