Asylums Quote by Robert McKee
“We realize we can't go around saying and doing what we're actually thinking and feeling. If we all did that, life would be a lunatic asylum. Indeed, that's how you know you're talking to a lunatic. Lunatics are those poor souls who have lost their inner communication and so they allow themselves to say and do exactly what they are thinking and feeling and that's why they're mad.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Interview on storytelling, 2015
People often hide true thoughts; revealing them fully would seem chaotic and irrational.
In simple terms: Hiding thoughts keeps order; revealing all feels crazy.
Key Takeaway
Consider the balance between honesty and social harmony.
Themes
honesty
social norms
psychology
Mood
reflective
cautious
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- team meetings
- creative brainstorming
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
self‑censorship
authenticity
madness
Questions to Reflect On
- When is honesty more harmful than helpful?
- How do you gauge appropriate self‑disclosure?
A Different Perspective
Too much transparency can damage trust or cause conflict.
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