Yes, I live in a castle, Tony! Alone. And rich white people pay me to play piano for them because it makes them feel cultured. But as soon as I step off that stage, I go right back to being just another negro to them. Because that is their true culture. And I suffer that side alone, because I'm not accepted by my own people 'cause I'm not like them, either. So if I'm not black enough and if I'm not white enough and if I'm not man enough then tell me, Tony, what am I!?
More from Green Book
Don Shirley You never win with violence, Tony. You only win when you maintain your dignity.
Don Shirley I am not a medical doctor. I'm a musician. I'm about to embark on a concert tour in the Deep South. What other experience do you have?
Tony Lip Public relations.
Don Shirley Could you put out the cigarette, please?
Tony Lip Why?
Don Shirley I can't breathe back here.
Tony Lip What are you talkin' about? Smoke's going down my lungs. I'm doin' all the work here.
Green Book
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