Did Mark Twain Really Say That?

“The reports of my death are greatly exaggerated” is a quote often attributed to Mark Twain (1835–1910), the celebrated American author and humorist. Twain was alleged to have said it after rumors that he was in poor health began circulating in 1897.

But Twain never actually said that. Instead, he wrote, “The report of my death was an exaggeration.” Close, but not quite as witty as the paraphrased version.

Being misquoted became an occupational hazard for Twain. See if you can identify his actual quotes from those that were misattributed or invented in the quiz below.

False attributions weren’t the only mischaracterization Twain suffered. While he did wear white suits, it wasn’t nearly as often as you might imagine. In fact, he may not have publicly donned his first one until 1906, when the 71-year-old appeared before a Congressional committee convened to discuss copyright laws. It made such an impression that future Twain impersonators and actors made sure to incorporate it into their performances.

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