Skip to content

On the stage . . . masks are assumed with some regard to…

“On the stage . . . masks are assumed with some regard to procedure; in everyday life, the participants act their parts without consideration either for suitability of scene or for the words spoken by the rest of the cast: the result is a general tendency for things to be brought to the level of…” quote by Anthony Powell
Download Open image
“On the stage . . . masks are assumed with some regard to procedure; in everyday life, the participants act their parts without consideration either for suitability of scene or for the words spoken by the rest of the cast: the result is a general tendency for things to be brought to the level of farce even when the theme is serious enough.”

Anthony Powell

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

People often follow social scripts blindly, turning serious matters into farcical performances.

In simple terms: Blindly following roles makes serious topics seem comic.

Key Takeaway

Question the roles you play.

Themes

social performance authenticity farce seriousness

Mood

irritated reflective

Type

observational critical

When to use this quote

  • political debates
  • work meetings
  • family gatherings
  • online discussions

Key Concepts

role theory social scripts dramaturgy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What roles are you playing without thought?
  • How can you bring authenticity to serious conversations?
A Different Perspective

May overlook genuine concerns in pursuit of conformity.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Anthony Powell

Explore all 156 Anthony Powell quotes

More Actor quotes

Browse all 21,590 Actor quotes