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Katharine Cornell Quotes

Powerful Katharine Cornell for Daily Growth

About Katharine Cornell

Katharine Cornell (1893-1974) was an illustrious American stage actress and theater director, renowned for her remarkable performances and innovative contributions to the world of theater. Born on February 16, 1893, in Monroe, Michigan, Cornell exhibited a passion for acting from an early age. She lost her hearing at the age of nine due to scarlet fever, which only served to fuel her determination to succeed in her chosen field. Cornell's acting career took off after she moved to New York City and joined the Denishawn School of Dancing and Related Arts, where she studied under modern dance pioneers Ruth St. Denis and Ted Shawn. After a successful debut on Broadway in 1920 with "The Dancers" and her subsequent marriage to famed actor Paul Cornell, Katharine Cornell began to make a name for herself as one of the most talented and versatile actresses of her generation. In 1926, Cornell founded the Cornell Theatre Company, which allowed her to direct and act in various productions throughout her career. Some of her most celebrated performances include playing Desdemona in "Othello" (1936), Medea (1947), and Blanche DuBois in "A Streetcar Named Desire" (1951). In 1958, Cornell received the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Play for her extraordinary portrayal of Blanche DuBois. Cornell's influence extended beyond her performances, as she was an advocate for women's rights and campaigned for various social causes throughout her life. She passed away on November 9, 1974, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the world of theater. Some of her most famous quotes include: - "The stage is the only place I have ever lived." - "I believe that every woman can be a genius if she dares to dream, and then works to make those dreams come true." - "There is no such thing as failure. There are only lessons learned."

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"We must take the responsibility for making ourselves happy."

This quote emphasizes the personal accountability we have for our own happiness. It suggests that rather than relying on external factors or circumstances, individuals should proactively seek ways to create their own joy and contentment. In essence, it encourages self-empowerment in the pursuit of happiness.

"Art is the only way to run away without leaving home."

This quote by Katharine Cornell suggests that artistic expression allows an individual to escape from their immediate surroundings, or realities, mentally and emotionally, without physically moving. It's a means of exploring new ideas, places, emotions, and experiences through imagination and creativity. Essentially, it provides a gateway to endless possibilities within one's own personal space.

"To live a great life, you must decide on your goal and make up your mind that you are going to give it everything you've got."

This quote by Katharine Cornell emphasizes the importance of setting clear goals and having unwavering determination in achieving them. It suggests that a fulfilling life is attainable when one decides on their purpose and commits fully to its pursuit, demonstrating resilience and dedication along the way. In essence, it underscores the power of focus, commitment, and perseverance in shaping a great life.

"Acting is an excuse for living all the different parts of my personality."

This quote suggests that acting, for Katharine Cornell, served as a means to express and explore various aspects of her personality that might not be fully revealed or accessible in everyday life. The stage provided an outlet for her to embody diverse characters and experiences, thereby enriching her own personal growth and understanding of herself. This interpretation underscores the transformative power of acting, as it allows individuals to delve into their inner worlds and express themselves in unique and captivating ways.

"Life is too short to be little."

The quote by Katharine Cornell, "Life is too short to be little," emphasizes the importance of living a life that's significant and impactful rather than one that is insignificant or ordinary. It encourages individuals to strive for greatness, seize opportunities, and make the most of their potential, as time is precious and limited. In essence, it's a call to action to step out of our comfort zones and pursue dreams and passions that may seem daunting but can lead to fulfillment and personal growth.

I drifted into acting. My grandfather had a house in Buffalo in which there was a stage, and his friends met every two weeks or so to put on plays. So it was natural for me to put on plays, too, when I went to boarding school. I put on everything in the drama - I was indiscriminate. I put on Yeats and Shaw and Lady Gregory.

- Katharine Cornell

Had, Weeks, Yeats, Two Weeks

I was with the Jessie Bonstelle Stock Company in Detroit and Buffalo for three seasons - 10 performances and a new play every week. She was an amazing woman who did a great deal for me.

- Katharine Cornell

Play, New, Seasons, Detroit

I was nervous from the very beginning, and it got worse as the years went on. I was conscientious and wanted to do more, always, than I was able. I don't think, when I was playing, that I was ever happy - beginning at 4 o'clock any afternoon.

- Katharine Cornell

Happy, Beginning, Very, Conscientious

The audience may not have felt it was right, and the author may have felt a little upset, but every part I've played I've twisted around in my mind until I've made it into something of my own. Looking back over it, I didn't deliberately sit down and plan like that, but it does read like it.

- Katharine Cornell

Looking Back, Upset, Over It, Twisted

When an actress is younger, she likes to lower her age, but when she is older, she likes to add to her years.

- Katharine Cornell

She, Add, Actress, Likes

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