Actors Quote by Emile Chartier
“We must recognize the eloquence of our passions and refuse to be taken in. Instead of saying, 'That false friend always did despise me,' say: 'In my present state of agitation, I can't see clearly, I can't judge clearly; I am only a tragic actor who is declaiming for his own ears.' Then you will see the lights in the theater go out for lack of an audience, and the brilliant sets will be nothing more than painted cardboard.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Les Mots et les Choses, 1910
Recognize that strong emotions cloud judgment; view oneself as a performer on stage, not the ultimate authority.
In simple terms: Passions distort perception; humility reveals truth.
Key Takeaway
Step back, observe emotions, then act.
Themes
humility
self‑awareness
perception
performance
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- conflict resolution
- personal growth
- public speaking
- art criticism
Key Concepts
existentialism
psychology
self‑reflection
Questions to Reflect On
- How do your passions shape your decisions?
- What steps can you take to gain clarity when agitated?
A Different Perspective
Emotions can still mislead even when acknowledged.
![“Profound sadness is always the result of an unhealthy condition of the body. ... We [should] say, 'I am sad; everything looks black to me; but external events are in no way responsible. It's my body that insists on reasoning. These are the opinions of my stomach.'” quote by Emile Chartier](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/150/emile-chartier-26457_black_profound-sadness-is-always-the-result-of_1380029.jpg)
