Meaning: This quote is attributed to the American comedian W.C. Fields, known for his witty and often irreverent humor. The quote, "Now don't say you can't swear off drinking; it's easy. I've done it a thousand times," is a clever play on the idea of trying and failing to give up a habit or addiction. Fields' humor often revolved around his love of alcohol, and this quote captures his sarcastic and self-deprecating approach to the subject.

In the quote, Fields is making light of the common struggle many people face when trying to break a habit or addiction. By claiming to have sworn off drinking countless times, he humorously suggests that the act of making the commitment is not difficult, but rather the ability to stick to it is the true challenge. This self-aware and humorous perspective on the difficulty of giving up drinking is characteristic of Fields' comedic style.

W.C. Fields, whose real name was William Claude Dukenfield, was a prominent figure in American entertainment during the early to mid-20th century. He was known for his vaudeville performances, as well as his work in film and radio. Fields often portrayed a lovable but flawed character, and his humor was often rooted in his love of alcohol and his disdain for authority. This quote reflects his persona as a charming rogue who was unapologetic about his vices.

The quote also touches on the universal experience of making resolutions or commitments to change, only to find oneself falling back into old habits. Fields' playful exaggeration of having sworn off drinking "a thousand times" resonates with anyone who has struggled to break a habit, emphasizing the relatable nature of his humor.

Beyond the comedic aspect, the quote also hints at the complexities of addiction and the challenges of overcoming it. While Fields presents the act of swearing off drinking as easy, the underlying message is that the actual process of abstaining is far more difficult. This duality of humor and underlying truth is a hallmark of Fields' comedy, where he often used humor to address deeper, more serious themes.

In conclusion, W.C. Fields' quote, "Now don't say you can't swear off drinking; it's easy. I've done it a thousand times," encapsulates his irreverent and self-aware approach to the topic of addiction. Through humor and exaggeration, Fields addresses the universal struggle of breaking habits while also touching on the underlying complexities of addiction. His clever wordplay and relatable subject matter have ensured that this quote remains a memorable and enduring part of his comedic legacy.