Communication Quote by Patrick Somerville
““In the end nothing matters but the work. You can’t control how it’s taken, and the act of telling a story always involves a gap. Sometimes confusion is the risk of ambiguity–I say that to students all the time. It’s true at the fireside and it’s true in the parlor, and it’s true in made-up towns and New York. Two humans face one another, words come out of one, words go into the other mind through the ears and eyes of the listener. It’s a story. It’s simple. The gap is the thing. Make sure you build the bridge.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Lecture on Narrative Theory, Unknown Venue, Date Unknown
The essence of work lies in its creation, not its reception; storytelling always contains a gap between teller and listener that must be bridged.
In simple terms: Work matters more than how it's received; storytelling has a gap to bridge.
Key Takeaway
Focus on creating, then bridge the communication gap.
Themes
storytelling
communication
creation
interpretation
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
educational
inspirational
When to use this quote
- teaching
- writing workshops
- public speaking
- media production
Key Concepts
narrative theory
gap theory
bridge metaphor
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you ensure your intended message reaches the listener?
- What methods help close the gap in storytelling?
A Different Perspective
The audience's perception can still distort intent despite bridging efforts.
