Even when in the deepest distress, the actor ultimately…
““Even when in the deepest distress, the actor ultimately cannot cease to think of the impression he and the whole scenic effect is making, even for example at the burial of his own child; he will weep over his own distress and the ways in which it expresses itself, as his own audience. The hypocrite who always plays one and the same role finally ceases to be a hypocrite; for example priests, who as young men are usually conscious or unconscious hypocrites, finally become natural and then really are priests without any affectation; or if the father fails to get that far then perhaps the son does so, employing his father's start and inheriting his habits. If someone obstinately and for a long time wants to appear something it is int he end hard for him to be anything else. The profession of almost every man, even that of the artist, begins with hypocrisy, with an imitation from without, with a copying of what is most effective. He who is always wearing a mask of a friendly countenance must finally acquire a power over benevolent moods without which the impression of friendliness cannot be obtained - and finally these acquire power over him, he is benevolent.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Artists and professionals begin by imitating others, but through authentic self‑expression they transcend hypocrisy and develop genuine benevolence.
In simple terms: We start by copying, then grow into true selves.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate authentic expression beyond imitation.
Themes
authenticity
self‑development
artistry
hypocrisy
Mood
introspective
philosophical
Type
essay
theoretical
When to use this quote
- career start
- artistic training
- personal growth
- leadership development
Key Concepts
philosophy
psychology
creative process
Questions to Reflect On
- How does imitation shape your early work?
- What practices foster genuine benevolence?
A Different Perspective
True authenticity may be elusive without supportive environments.