The body says what words cannot.
Martha GrahamRead
The body is your instrument in dance, but your art is outside that creature, the body.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Dance transcends the physical body, embodying a deeper artistic expression.
In this quote, Martha Graham emphasizes that while the physical body serves as the vessel for dance, the true essence of art lies beyond the limitations of the body. Dance is not merely a series of movements; it is a profound expression of emotion, creativity, and interpretation that exists on a more spiritual or conceptual level.
Themes
DanceArtExpressionBodyCreativity
In practice
Example use cases
In a dance class, when discussing artistic intention, this quote could inspire students to think beyond the physical aspects of their movements.
More from Martha Graham
All quotes βNobody cares if you can't dance well.
Martha GrahamRead
Movement never lies. It is a barometer telling the state of the soul's weather to all who can read it.
Martha GrahamRead
What people in the world think of you is really none of your business.
Martha GrahamRead
No artist is pleased. There is no satisfaction whatever at any time. There is only a strange, divine dissatisfaction, a blessed unrest that keeps us marching and makes us more alive than the others.
Martha GrahamRead
There is a vitality, a life force, a quickening that is translated through you into action, and because there is only one of you in all time, this expression is unique, and if you block it, it will never exist through any other medium, and be lost. The world will not have it. It is not your business to determine how good it is, not how it compares with other expression. It is your business to keep it yours clearly and directly, to keep the channel open.
Martha GrahamRead
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