I was born in a world of opera, theatre, films, poetry, art, and therefore, out of the wire, I made a stage. That's why they call me a high wire artist.
Philippe PetitRead
It would be very, very dangerous for a wire walker to experience fear while he is balancing on the wire. Fear has its place on earth, before and maybe after a high-wire walk, but not during for me.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Fear can hinder performance when facing challenges, but it should not interfere during critical moments.
In this quote, Philippe Petit emphasizes the importance of maintaining focus and composure when facing high-pressure situations. He suggests that while fear is a natural emotion to acknowledge before and after a challenge, it should not take hold during the act itself, especially in scenarios requiring precision and balance, such as wire walking. This perspective highlights the need for mental clarity and confidence in executing difficult tasks.
Themes
FearCourageBalanceFocusPerformance
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about overcoming challenges, you might say, 'As Philippe Petit once noted, fear has its place, but during critical moments, we must find our balance and focus.'
More from Philippe Petit
All quotes →On a very long and very high wire, I will not hope to not be blown off by high winds. I will have the certitude that such could not happen.
Philippe PetitRead
Many people use the words 'death defying' or 'death wishing' when they talk about wire-walking. Many people have asked me: 'So do you have a death wish?' After doing a beautiful walk, I feel like punching them in the nose. It's indecent. I have a life wish.
Philippe PetitRead
It's very easy to walk on a wire if you spend a whole lifetime practicing for it.
Philippe PetitRead
I am not up there by chance. I am there by choice. And I know the wire. And I know my limits. And I am a madman of details.
Philippe PetitRead
It is treacherous on a high wire to change your focus point and suddenly look down.
Philippe PetitRead
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