Skip to content

Language Quote by William Goldman

“A word?" the Sicilian said, raising his arms. His mile was more angelic than his face Buttercup halted. "Speak." "We are but poor circus performers," the Sicilian explained, "It is dark and we are lost. We were told there was a village nearby that might enjoy our skills." "You were misinformed,"…” quote by William Goldman
Download Open image
““A word?" the Sicilian said, raising his arms. His mile was more angelic than his face Buttercup halted. "Speak." "We are but poor circus performers," the Sicilian explained, "It is dark and we are lost. We were told there was a village nearby that might enjoy our skills." "You were misinformed," Buttercup told him, "There is no one, not for many miles." "Then there will be no one to hear you scream.””

William Goldman

About This Quote

Source Film: The Princess Bride, 1987

The quote highlights desperation and false hope when people seek an audience that may not exist.

In simple terms: Desperation and false hope.

Key Takeaway

Recognize when expectations are unrealistic.

Themes

desperation hope illusion communication

Mood

melancholic reflective

Type

literary dialogue

When to use this quote

  • performing arts
  • travel
  • search for audience
  • survival decisions

Key Concepts

existentialism human need expectation

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you chase validation from empty spaces?
  • How can you find purpose without external applause?
A Different Perspective

The audience may never be present, making effort futile.

3.6 out of 5 (4 ratings)

More by William Goldman

Explore all 281 William Goldman quotes

More Language quotes

Browse all 21,951 Language quotes