The mirror is not you. The mirror is you looking at yourself.
George BalanchineRead
I don't want people who want to dance; I want people who have to dance.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the difference between those who enjoy dancing and those who feel a deep, intrinsic need to dance.
George Balanchine's quote highlights the passion and dedication that true artists possess. It suggests that exceptional talent is often driven by an inner compulsion rather than mere interest or desire, underscoring the importance of commitment and emotional connection in the pursuit of art.
Themes
DanceArtPassionDedicationCommitment
In practice
Example use cases
During a dance recital, this quote can be shared to inspire performers and audience alike.
More from George Balanchine
All quotes βFirst comes the sweat. Then comes the beauty if you're very lucky and have said your prayers.
George BalanchineRead
God creates, I do not create. I assemble and I steal everywhere to do it - from what I see, from what the dancers can do, from what others do.
George BalanchineRead
Most ballet teachers in the United States are terrible. If they were in medicine, everyone would be poisoned.
George BalanchineRead
One is born to be a dancer. No teacher can work miracles, nor will years of training make a good dancer of an untalented pupil. One may be able to acquire a certain technical facility, but no one can ever 'acquire an exceptional talent.' I have never prided myself on having an unusually gifted pupil. A Pavlova is no one's pupil but God's.
George BalanchineRead
The pointes for girls, I always say, have to be like an elephant's trunk; strong and yet flexible and soft.
George BalanchineRead
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This is an evening of wonders, indeed!
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