This is Paris. And I'm an American who lives here. My name Jerry Mulligan. And I'm an ex-GI. In 1945, when the Army told me to find my own job, I stayed on and I'll tell you why. I'm a painter. All my life, that's all I've ever wanted to do. And for a painter, the Mecca of the world for study, for inspiration, and for living is here on this star called Paris. Just look at it. No wonder so many artists have come here and called it home. Brother, if you can't paint in Paris, you'd better give up and marry the boss's daughter. Back home everyone said I didn't have any talent. They might be saying the same thing over here, but it sounds better in French.

She's one of those third year girls who gripe my liver...You know, American college kids. They come over here to take their third year and lap up a little culture...They're officious and dull. They're always making profound observations they've overheard.

[to Lise, after she finally agrees to a date] Mademoiselle, there is no happier man in Paris than Monsieur Mulligan at this moment.

[to Jerry] Last night you were a small annoyance but today you are growing into a large nuisance. Now leave me alone and don't call me again ever.

[to Jerry] It's a pity you don't have as much charm as you have persistence.

[to Jerry, after they break up] If it means anything to you, I love you.

[to Jerry, explaining her name] As in Venus de.

[to Jerry] I can tell you, I didn't like your exhibition tonight. I thought you were very rude...If you insist on picking up stray women, that's your own affair but from now on, don't do it when you're with me. Is that clear?

[to Jerry, after he has flattered and kissed her] I feel like a woman for a change.

Adam Cook is my name. I'm a concert pianist. That's a pretentious way of saying I'm unemployed at the moment.

It's not a pretty face, I grant you, but underneath its flabby exterior is an enormous lack of character. I like Paris. It's a place where you don't run into old friends, although that's never been one of my problems.

[Narrating, guiding the viewer to find himself in a Paris street] No, that's not me. He's too happy.

[teasing Jerry about Milo] Tell me, when you get married, will you keep your maiden name?

Henri Baurel: Let's just say I'm old enough to know what to do with my young feelings.

Adam: [looking at a photo of Henri's 19-year-old girlfriend] Shocking degenerate.
Henri: She was a little girl then. We only became in love after she left.
Adam: She's a little young for you, isn't she kid?
Henri: She has great vitality, joi de vivre, she loves to go out and have fun and dance. She would dance all night...She's an enchanting girl, Adam. Not really beautiful. And yet, she has great beauty.