" I was what they call a pool hustler. That’s absolutely true. For long periods of time I got by, barely skimmed by, just playing pool. "
- George Miller

In simple terms, the speaker describes himself as someone who earned a living by playing pool professionally, often barely making ends meet. This statement highlights his role as a skilled but perhaps underappreciated player in the competitive world of professional billiards.

Beyond its surface meaning, this quote encapsulates themes of struggle and survival within a challenging career path. The speaker suggests that he navigated the ups and downs of being a pool hustler through sheer skill and determination, often teetering on the edge of financial stability. His words reflect not just his experiences in billiards but also broader insights into perseverance and the sometimes precarious nature of living from one game to another. It is a testament to both the allure and the harsh realities of pursuing a livelihood through competitive sports.

George Miller, the author of this quote, was known for his prowess as a professional pool player during a time when such skills could be leveraged for income. Born in 1935, he became one of the most renowned players in the United States, frequently participating in and winning high-stakes matches. His career spanned decades, earning him a place in the annals of billiards history as both a skilled player and a resilient survivor in an unpredictable profession.