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Actors Quote by Laurence Olivier

“[on whether he harbored any resentment at his forced retirement from the stage after he was fired by Britain's National Theater] I should be soaring away with my head tilted slightly toward the gods, feeding on the caviar of Shakespeare... An actor must act.” quote by Laurence Olivier
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“[on whether he harbored any resentment at his forced retirement from the stage after he was fired by Britain's National Theater] I should be soaring away with my head tilted slightly toward the gods, feeding on the caviar of Shakespeare... An actor must act.”

Laurence Olivier

About This Quote

Source Interview: BBC Radio, 1975

An actor should aspire to lofty artistic heights, drawing inspiration from great works.

In simple terms: Actors should aim high, inspired by masters.

Key Takeaway

Pursue excellence and honor your craft.

Themes

artistry inspiration ambition dedication

Mood

inspirational reflective

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • theatrical performance
  • film acting
  • career development

Key Concepts

creative aspiration professional standards

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance artistic vision with commercial demands?
  • What does “soaring” mean for you?
A Different Perspective

High ideals can clash with practical constraints of the industry.

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