the first night is the worst possible time to make a hard and fast criticism: the baby never looks its best on the day it is born.

- Margot Fonteyn

The world of dance is a charmed place. Some people like to inhabit it, others to behold it; either way it is rewarding.

- Margot Fonteyn

Genius is another word for magic, and the whole point of magic is that it is inexplicable.

- Margot Fonteyn

Minor things can become moments of great revelation when encountered for the first time.

- Margot Fonteyn

Ballet is more than a profession - it is a way of life.

- Margot Fonteyn

generally speaking, we are all happier when we are still striving for achievement than when the prize is in our hands.

- Margot Fonteyn

I explained it when I danced it.

- Margot Fonteyn

Genius is another word for magic.

- Margot Fonteyn

Take your work seriously, but never yourself.

- Margot Fonteyn