I tend to identify with my roles to such an extent that I appear to be totally convinced about certain statements that, in real life, I would never believe in.
Interpretation
The quote reflects on the deep connection individuals can have with their roles, sometimes leading them to believe in ideas they would typically reject.
Bruno Ganz's quote delves into the complex relationship between identity and belief. It suggests that when individuals immerse themselves in certain roles β whether in acting, social functions, or life in general β they can become so entwined with these identities that they may inadvertently adopt beliefs or statements that do not align with their true convictions. This phenomenon highlights the power of role-playing and the psychological impacts of embodying a character or a societal role, prompting reflections on authenticity and self-awareness.
In practice
In a discussion about the impact of theater on personal identity, this quote highlights the transformative nature of roles.
He realized now that a lot of the problem had been his own mind, which was usually moving at a speed ten or twenty times that of his classmates. They had thought him strange, weird, or even suicidal, depending on the escapade in question, but maybe it had been a simple case of mental overdrive-if anything about being in constant mental overdrive was simple. Anyway, it was the sort of thing you got under control after a while-you got it under control or you found outlets for it.
If I convert it's because it's better that a believer dies than that an atheist does.
Through one all are known, through one all are also seen
If what Billy Pilgrim learned from the Tralfamadorians is true, that we will all live forever, no matter how dead we may sometimes seem to be, I am not overjoyed. Still--if I am going to spend eternity visiting this moment and that, I'm grateful that so many of those moments are nice.
We no longer admit any other truth than that which is expedient; for there is no worse error than the truth that may weaken the arm that is fighting.
Best of an island is once you get there - you can't go any farther...you've come to the end of things.
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