Actors Quote by Maureen Lipman
“Actors are always being asked to speak. Sometimes there is a well-honed script, often there is not. But we are well-practised in the art of words and the power of their meaning. We know when to project and when to stay silent. We understand better than most that the pen is mightier than the sword. We live it.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: The Guardian, “Actors on Speech and Silence”, 2015
Actors master both speaking and silence, using words strategically and valuing restraint as powerful as speech.
In simple terms: Actors know when to speak and when to stay quiet, treating words as powerful tools.
Key Takeaway
Use words wisely and respect silence.
Themes
communication
artistry
power
restraint
Mood
thoughtful
reflective
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- theatre rehearsals
- political debates
- media interviews
- personal negotiations
Key Concepts
speech
silence
pen vs sword
Questions to Reflect On
- When should you choose silence over speaking?
- How does restraint enhance impact?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on speech can drown out listening.
![“[T]he question actors most often get asked is how they can bear saying the same things over and over again night after night, but God knows the answer to that is, don’t we all anyway; might as well get paid for it.” quote by Elaine Dundy](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/571/elaine-dundy-10668_actor_t-he-question-actors-most-often-get-aske_539060.jpg)
