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.
I believe there is something of the divine mystery in everything that exists. We can see it sparkle in a sunflower or a poppy. We sense more of the unfathomable mystery in a butterfly that flutters from a twig--or in a goldfish swimming in a bowl. But we are closest to God in our own soul. Only there can we become one with the greatest mystery of life. In truth, at very rare moments we can experience that we ourselves are that divine mystery.
Everything is deception: seeking the minimum of illusion, keeping within the ordinary limitations, seeking the maximum. In the first case one cheats the Good, by trying to make it too easy for oneself to get it, and the Evil by imposing all too unfavorable conditions of warfare on it. In the second case one cheats the Good by keeping as aloof from it as possible, and the Evil by hoping to make it powerless through intensifying it to the utmost.
Imagine" he said, "never even thinking, 'We are alone,' simply because it has never occurred to you to think that there's any other way to be.
When men are brought face to face with their opponents, forced to listen and learn and mend their ideas, they cease to be children and savages and begin to live like civilized men. Then only is freedom a reality, when men may voice their opinions because they must examine their opinions.
It's pointless to have a nice clean desk, because it means you're not doing anything.
There is little or no magic about them, except the ordinary everyday sort which helps them to disappear quietly and quickly when large stupid folk like you and me come blundering along, making a noise like elephants which they can hear a mile off.
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