Acting is not a state of being ... but a state of appearing to be. You can't be eight times a week without going stark staring mad. You've got to be in control.
Noel CowardRead
I don't believe in astrology. The only stars I can blame for my failures are those that walk about the stage.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes personal responsibility over attributing failures to external factors like astrology.
Noel Coward's quote reflects a clear stance against fatalism and reinforces the idea that individuals must take ownership of their actions and outcomes. By stating that the only 'stars' to blame are those 'that walk about the stage,' he highlights that failures are not caused by celestial influences but by one's own choices and efforts.
Themes
Personal ResponsibilityFailureAstrologyChoicesSelf-Accountability
In practice
Example use cases
This quote is perfect for motivating students to take responsibility for their grades and learning.
More from Noel Coward
All quotes →Goodnight, my darlings, I'll see you tomorrow.
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It's no use to go and take courses in playwriting any more than it's much use taking courses in acting. Better play to a bad matinée in Hull, it will teach you much more than a year of careful instruction.
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But why, oh why, do the wrong people travel, when the right people stay at home?
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Never mind, dear, we're all made the same, though some more than others.
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Wit ought to be a glorious treat like caviar; never spread it about like marmalade.
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