Tonight - by taking this solemn oath - I am no longer a private citizen but the Mayor of the City of Chicago.

Be assured that I did not become the Mayor of Chicago to preside over its decline.

If we are to succeed, we must recognize that the community redevelopment is not solely the rehabilitation of housing, or putting a mall in the business strips.

The Chicago Symphony is considered the greatest orchestra in the world.

Our universities and museums are respected around the country.

Politics never takes a holiday in Chicago.

I accept that responsibility and ask only that I be judged by my performance as its chief executive.

But I am committed to keeping this city a strong and viable center for commerce and industry, for continuing to make it a place of opportunity for its citizens.

The nation can no longer afford to continue policies that hasten the flight of persons to the distant suburbs.

City employees will be hired and promoted because of their abilities - without outside interference.

In the days and months I spent walking through the various communities of this city, I found that Chicago did not work for everyone, however.

Sir, no amount of money, no matter how vast, could induce me to stroll, perambulate, promenade, or engage in any form of locomotion with you whatsoever. Good evening.

At times it's like sadness has planted itself on her face, refusing to leave, an overwhelming sadness, and sometimes I see despair there, too.

I've never been lonely. I like myself. I'm the best form of entertainment I have. Let's drink more wine!

science is the most revolutionary force in the world.

This is still a dangerous world. It's a world of madmen and uncertainty and potential mental losses.

I have been studying how I may compare this prison where I live unto the world; Shut up in the prison of their own consciences.

I like dramas. I've always liked dramas. And I'm a pretty light person. I don't consider myself a very dramatic person. But I do like doing that onscreen.

Let us dream of evanescence, and linger in the beautiful foolishness of things.

The words you say to yourself create your self image.

The means that heaven yields must be embraced, and not neglected; else, if heaven would, and we will not heaven's offer, we refuse the proffered means of succor and redress.