Other dances are like languages, like French or Spanish, but my steps are slang, and slang is always changing.
Savion GloverRead
I'm happy that people think of me as the greatest tap-dancer that ever lived. But it's just a rumor. Because the greatest dancer that ever lived knows everything, and I don't. I'm still learning. I still have a lot of work to do.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects humility and the ongoing journey of learning in artistic expression.
In this quote, Savion Glover expresses gratitude for being regarded as an exceptional tap dancer while also acknowledging that such titles are subjective. He emphasizes the importance of continuous growth and learning, indicating that true greatness is recognized by a deep understanding and mastery of one’s craft, which he believes he has yet to achieve.
Themes
Tap DanceHumilityLearningGrowthArtistic Expression
In practice
Example use cases
During an award acceptance speech to highlight the dedication to continuous improvement in one's craft.
More from Savion Glover
All quotes →Just like a comedian has a certain joke or a jazz musician has a riff that they know will get the crowd, a tap dancer always has a step.
Savion GloverRead
For me, the importance in learning about the dance is using it as a voice. It's not about a step, it's about a way to express oneself.
Savion GloverRead
There are many different styles of, and approaches to, tap. My own leans towards a more intellectual view: tap dancing not just for the sake of entertainment but to educate and spark emotion.
Savion GloverRead
I can produce any instrument, any sound that I can imagine; it may be percussive to the audience, but in my mind it may be a piano, a melody, or a tuba, or a harp, or a harmonica. My mission is to allow people to hear the dance in its purity and up against any other type of sound or music.
Savion GloverRead
My mom couldn't afford dance shoes, so she put me in these old cowboy boots with a hard bottom so I could get some sound out. I used them for seven months. When I finally got real tap shoes, I was nervous. I kept moving my feet, thinking, 'Oh, so this is how it's supposed to sound.'
Savion GloverRead
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