Able Quote by Edward Norton
“In a very philosophic sense I think doing the work is itself a good thing. But at the end of the day, since we're taking other people's shekels to do it, and their work is being able to make a return out of it, it forces you to consider the fact that you're doing it for other people. The whole construct is built around the assumption that it's going to get shared, and that someone else is going to find value in it - entertainment, catharsis, enlightenment, or whatever.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: 2010, The Guardian, "Edward Norton on Art and Commerce"
Creating work for others' benefit adds responsibility and meaning beyond personal gain.
In simple terms: Doing work for others gives it purpose.
Key Takeaway
Consider the impact of your work on others.
Themes
responsibility
purpose
art
commerce
Mood
thoughtful
reflective
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- product design
- film production
- publishing
- public speaking
Key Concepts
ethics
value creation
shared experience
Questions to Reflect On
- How does audience value shape your creative choices?
- What responsibilities arise when profit is involved?
A Different Perspective
Balancing personal vision with audience expectations can be challenging.
![“As an actor, if you step to the side and you look at [Thornton's performance] technically, and you try to imagine doing what he was doing, most people would panic. Most people would be on the set, and they would be panicking, going, "I'm not doing anything!" All the ham instincts in you would be…” quote by Edward Norton](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/f09/edward-norton-2203_actors_as-an-actor-if-you-step-to-the-side-and_15751.jpg)
