Meaning: This quote by Richard O'Brien, a well-known actor, playwright, and theater performer, reflects on the motivations that drive people to do things in the world. O'Brien, best known for creating the cult classic "The Rocky Horror Picture Show," presents a succinct and somewhat cynical view of human motivations, boiling them down to three key factors: love, prestige, and money. In his view, these are the primary drivers for human action, and the ideal scenario is to have all three working together.

Love, as the first reason for doing things, represents the emotional and personal connections that drive people to take action. This could include acts of kindness, sacrifice, or dedication to a cause or relationship. O'Brien's inclusion of love as a motivator suggests that he believes in the power of genuine, heartfelt emotions to inspire and propel individuals to act in meaningful ways.

Prestige, the second reason mentioned, relates to the desire for recognition, respect, and status. People often seek prestige as a validation of their abilities, accomplishments, or social standing. This can manifest in the pursuit of success in one's career, the attainment of honors or awards, or the desire to be admired and respected by others. O'Brien's inclusion of prestige as a motivation reflects a recognition of the importance of social status and recognition in driving human behavior.

Finally, O'Brien identifies money as the third reason for doing things. This is a pragmatic and often universally recognized motivator, as financial security and material wealth are essential for meeting basic needs and achieving a comfortable lifestyle. The pursuit of money can drive individuals to work hard, take risks, and make sacrifices in order to achieve financial success. O'Brien's acknowledgment of money as a primary motivator reflects the reality of the modern world, where economic concerns often play a significant role in shaping human actions and decisions.

O'Brien's assertion that having all three motivations together is "fine" suggests that he sees the convergence of love, prestige, and money as an ideal scenario, where individuals are driven by both personal, emotional connections, societal recognition, and financial security. This view acknowledges the complexity of human motivation and the ways in which multiple factors can intersect to influence behavior.

In interpreting O'Brien's quote, it's important to consider the context of his own experiences and observations as an actor and creative professional. O'Brien's career in the performing arts likely exposed him to the diverse motivations that drive individuals in pursuit of artistic expression, recognition, and financial success. His perspective may also reflect a degree of skepticism or realism about the factors that influence human behavior, particularly in competitive or high-stakes environments.

Ultimately, O'Brien's quote offers a thought-provoking perspective on the motivations that drive people to act in the world. By identifying love, prestige, and money as the primary reasons for doing things, he encapsulates the emotional, social, and material forces that shape human behavior. Whether one agrees or disagrees with his assessment, O'Brien's quote invites reflection on the complex interplay of motivations that propel individuals through their lives.