Actor Quote by Viola Davis
“That's why I do what I do, and that's why I wanted to be an actress from the time I was six years old. If I can't effectively move people, then I would prefer not to do it.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: “The Courage to Act”, Vanity Fair, 2020
She feels purpose when her art moves others; without that impact, she would not continue acting.
In simple terms: Acting must emotionally affect people for her to stay.
Key Takeaway
Seek work that creates genuine emotional resonance.
Themes
purpose
art
impact
Mood
reflective
passionate
Type
inspirational
career
When to use this quote
- theatre
- film
- public speaking
- teaching
Key Concepts
performance
empathy
Questions to Reflect On
- What does “moving people” mean to you?
- How can you measure artistic impact?
A Different Perspective
Not all audiences respond equally; impact can be fleeting.
![“I think that's why August [Wilson] named her Rose [in "Fences"]; I really do. She's a rose in her sweetness and her kindness and in everything else, even her anger towards the end.” quote by Viola Davis](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/bcf/viola-davis-1174_august_i-think-that-s-why-august-wilson-named-h_157231.jpg)
