Behaving Quote by Tom Stoppard
“If you let the plot be determined by what you feel is in the character's mind at that point, it may not turn out to be a very good play, but at least it will be a play where people are behaving in a kind of truthful way.”
About This Quote
Source Play: "The Real Thing", 1982
Relying solely on a character’s internal feelings may produce truth but can sacrifice dramatic quality.
In simple terms: Truthful characters may lack strong drama.
Key Takeaway
Balance internal truth with compelling structure.
Themes
theatre
character development
truth
drama
Mood
analytical
creative
Type
instructional
philosophical
When to use this quote
- scriptwriting
- acting workshops
- directing
- literary analysis
Key Concepts
psychological realism
narrative pacing
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you keep truth while enhancing tension?
- When does realism hinder storytelling?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on realism can make a play feel static.
