Body Quote by Paul Virilio
“To me, dance is an extraordinary thing, more extraordinary than most people usually think. Dance preceded writing, speaking and music. When mute people speak their body language, it is true speaking rather than handicap, this is the first word and the first writing. Thus to me, the body is fundamental.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Speed and Politics by Paul Virilio, 1977
Dance is a primal form of communication that predates spoken and written language, expressing meaning through the body.
In simple terms: Dance is a fundamental body language before speech or writing.
Recognize and value non‑verbal expression.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- education
- therapy
- performing arts
- social interaction
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does body movement convey complex ideas?
- What are limits of body‑only communication?
Non‑verbal cues can be misinterpreted across cultures.