Richard Rodgers was often asked how collaboration with (the very short) Larry Hart differed from that with (the very tall) Oscar Hammerstein. Though both were first-rate writers, Rodgers explained, there was one significant difference:

"When I worked with Larry and people recognized us walking together, they'd say, 'The little fellow is okay but watch out for the big son-of-a-bitch.' Now, when I'm with Oscar and am recognized, people say, 'The big guy is okay, but watch our for the little son-of-a-bitch.' And that's the difference between working with Larry and working with Oscar."