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Belief Quote by Derek Walcott

“I always have difficulty with the Greek tragic plays. I think the difficulty one has - which is a serious problem - is the question of belief. Do you believe in the myth that the play expresses? Do you believe in it as myth or as reality? With any play, you have to believe in it as reality. You…” quote by Derek Walcott
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“I always have difficulty with the Greek tragic plays. I think the difficulty one has - which is a serious problem - is the question of belief. Do you believe in the myth that the play expresses? Do you believe in it as myth or as reality? With any play, you have to believe in it as reality. You can't act a myth.”

Derek Walcott

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Greek Tragedy, 1990

Understanding Greek tragedy requires believing in its mythic reality, not treating it as mere story; true belief transforms performance.

In simple terms: Believe in the myth as reality to act authentically.

Key Takeaway

Embrace the mythic truth in artistic work.

Themes

theatre myth belief performance

Mood

thoughtful philosophical

Type

reflective inspirational

When to use this quote

  • acting
  • directing
  • studying classics
  • teaching
  • writing

Key Concepts

existential authenticity dramatic truth interpretation

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does it mean to treat myth as reality?
  • How does belief affect your artistic expression?
A Different Perspective

Belief may clash with personal skepticism, limiting connection.

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