Leonard Nimoy, Spock Quotes: ‘Star Trek’ Actor And His Character On Kindness, Human Behavior And Potential

Actor Leonard Nimoy, best known for his beloved role as Mr. Spock in the “Star Trek” science-fiction series of films and television shows, was not one to mince words. Like his character, Nimoy appeared to view life in the entertainment business through a lens of objectivity. Nimoy died at age 83 at home in Los Angeles Friday, according to the New York Times.

The actor’s two autobiographies -- “I Am Not Spock” and “I Am Spock” -- seemed to capture first his rejection and then his acceptance of the fact some people had a hard time being able to fully separate the character and the performer. Here are some of the best quotes by either Nimoy or Spock:

“Spock is definitely one of my best friends. When I put on those ears, it’s not like just another day. When I become Spock, that day becomes something special.” -- Nimoy on playing Spock

“The miracle is this -- the more we share, the more we have.” -- Nimoy on kindness

“You know, for a long time, I have been of the opinion that artists don’t necessarily know what they’re doing. You don’t necessarily know what kind of universal concept you’re tapping into.” -- Nimoy on acting

“My folks came to the U.S, as immigrants, aliens, and became citizens. I was born in Boston, a citizen, went to Hollywood and became an alien.” -- Nimoy on his immigrant parents

“Without followers, evil cannot spread.” -- Spock on evil

“It is curious how often you humans manage to obtain that which you do not want.” -- Spock on human behavior

“A stallion must first be broken before it can reach its potential.” -- Spock on potential

“I think about myself as like an ocean liner that’s been going full speed for a long distance, and the captain pulls the throttle back all the way to ‘Stop,’ but the ship doesn’t stop immediately, does it? It has its own momentum, and it keeps on going, and I’m very flattered that people are still finding me useful.” -- Nimoy on his career