I was not naturally talented. I didn't sing, dance or act, though working around that minor detail made me inventive.
Interpretation
Talent can come from hard work and creativity rather than just natural ability.
In this quote, Steve Martin reflects on his journey of creativity and success, emphasizing that he did not possess inherent talent in traditional performing arts. Instead, he found inventive ways to express himself and succeed despite not fitting the stereotypical mold of a performer, highlighting the importance of perseverance and innovation in achieving one's goals.
In practice
In a motivational speech about following one's passion, you could use this quote to illustrate the value of creativity.
When I first started doing my comedy act, I just desperately needed material. So I took literally everything I knew how to do on stage with me, which was juggling, magic and banjo and my little comedy routines. I always felt the audience sorta tolerated the serious musical parts while I was doing my comedy.
You want to be a bit compulsive in your art or craft or whatever you do.
I have heard it said that a complicated childhood can lead to a life in the arts. I tell you this story of my father and me to let you know I am qualified to be a comedian.
...it is not the big events that hurt the most but rather the smallest questionable shift in tone at the end of a spoken word that can plow most deeply into the heart.
Reviews for someone like me come in three packages. One is justifiable praise, the second is justifiable criticism, and the third is, "This is only published because he's a celebrity."
If he thinks he would harm Mirabelle, he would back away. But he does not yet understand when and how people are hurt. He doesn't understand the subtleties of slights and pains, that it is not the big events that hurt the most but rather the smallest questionable shift in tone at the end of a spoken word that can plow most deeply into the heart.
I want to see women of African descent shine.
I believe in the impossible because no one else does.
Listening to Dr. King on the radio inspired me. Coming under the influence of Jim Lawson inspired me to think that I, too, could do something.
There are many women who came before me who didn't really have the same opportunities that I have had. That's why I always wanted to be a great ambassador - not only today's generation - but for the women who really didn't have a voice, but who paved the way for me.
I chose to embrace the spirit of my mother, who, though she had too many of her own dreams denied, deferred, and destroyed, she still instilled in me, her child, that I could have dreams and that I did have a responsibility and the power.
To all the seeds that follow me protect your essence, Born with less, but you still precious.
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