We are indeed a strange lot! There are times we doubt that we have any emotions we can honestly call our own. I have approached every dynamic scene change in my life the same way. When I married Charlie MacArthur, I sat down and wondered how I could play the best wife that ever was.... My love for him was the truest thing in my life; but it was still important that I love him with proper effect, that I act loving him with great style, that I achieve the ultimate in wifedom.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- People often question their own emotions. The speaker treated marriage like a role to perform with style and effect.
- In plain terms
- We doubt our feelings. The author acted like a perfect wife because it was stylish and effective.
- What can you take from it?
- Emotions can feel borrowed, and we often perform roles for others.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Are your emotions truly yours?
- How much of life is performance?
Another view
Performing a role does not always mean feelings are fake.
More from Helen Hayes
Actors cannot choose the manner in which they are born. Consequently, it is the one gesture in their lives completely devoid of self-consciousness.
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