Meaning: Emmett Kelly, a renowned American circus performer and creator of the beloved character "Weary Willie," spoke these words, shedding light on the essence of a clown's performance and the deep connection between the character and the performer. The quote encapsulates the profound truth that a clown's makeup and character are the core elements through which they convey their art, emotions, and stories. It reflects the dedication and emotional investment that a clown puts into their portrayal, emphasizing the significance of their character as the central vehicle for their expression.

In the world of entertainment, clowns have long been celebrated for their ability to evoke laughter, touch hearts, and convey poignant messages through their performances. Emmett Kelly's words underscore the idea that a clown's makeup and character are not mere adornments or superficial personas, but rather the very essence of their craft. The makeup and character serve as the gateway through which the clown connects with their audience, transcending language barriers and cultural differences to elicit genuine and often profound emotional responses.

The notion that a clown "loves and believes in that character" speaks to the deep sense of commitment and authenticity that underpins a clown's portrayal. The character becomes an extension of the performer, embodying their creativity, vulnerability, and passion. Through the art of clowning, performers breathe life into their characters, infusing them with unique traits, quirks, and vulnerabilities that resonate with audiences on a deeply human level.

Emmett Kelly's own creation, Weary Willie, epitomized this profound connection between the performer and the character. Weary Willie, a downtrodden and world-weary hobo clown, became an iconic symbol of resilience and empathy. Kelly's portrayal of Weary Willie was characterized by a remarkable blend of humor, pathos, and social commentary, showcasing the depth of emotion and storytelling that can be achieved through the art of clowning.

Furthermore, the quote highlights the vulnerability inherent in the art of clowning. By emphasizing that a clown's makeup and character are "all he has to sell," Kelly draws attention to the raw and unguarded nature of a clown's performance. Unlike other forms of entertainment that may rely on elaborate sets or technological wizardry, a clown's essence lies in their ability to connect with their audience through the sheer power of their character and performance.

In a broader context, the quote serves as a poignant reminder of the universal nature of storytelling and the human experience. Regardless of the medium, be it literature, theater, or visual arts, the characters we create and embody are often the vessels through which we explore and express the complexities of our own emotions and experiences. The clown, with their exaggerated features and unbridled expressions, distills these emotions into a form that is at once whimsical and deeply resonant.

In conclusion, Emmett Kelly's quote encapsulates the profound relationship between a clown, their makeup, and their character, shedding light on the depth of emotion, authenticity, and storytelling that underpin the art of clowning. It serves as a powerful testament to the enduring impact of clowns as storytellers, healers, and ambassadors of human emotion, transcending boundaries and eliciting genuine connections with audiences around the world.