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Acting Quote by George Bernard Shaw

“It is always necessary to overstate a cast startlingly to make people sit up and listen to it, and to frighten them into acting on it.” quote by George Bernard Shaw
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“It is always necessary to overstate a cast startlingly to make people sit up and listen to it, and to frighten them into acting on it.”

George Bernard Shaw

About This Quote

Source Play: Man and Superman, 1903

Advocates exaggeration to capture attention and provoke action, using shock value as a catalyst for engagement

In simple terms: Bold statements can jolt people into action

Key Takeaway

Use striking language to motivate

Themes

communication persuasion activism

Mood

provocative strategic

Type

theatrical motivational

When to use this quote

  • advertising
  • public speaking
  • social campaigns
  • activist movements

Key Concepts

rhetoric hyperbole psychology of fear

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is exaggeration effective?
  • What are the risks of fear‑based messaging?
A Different Perspective

Excessive drama can cause backlash or distrust

2.5 out of 5 (7 ratings)

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