Marylouise Burke Quotes

Powerful Marylouise Burke for Daily Growth

About Marylouise Burke

Marylouise Burke (1945-2017) was an influential American playwright, screenwriter, and actress, best known for her poignant explorations of human relationships, particularly those involving women. Born in Stamford, Connecticut in 1945, Burke developed a love for storytelling from an early age. She attended the University of Michigan, where she studied theater, before moving to New York City to pursue her career. Burke's work was deeply influenced by her experiences as a woman in a male-dominated industry. Her plays often dealt with themes such as female empowerment, identity, and the complexities of human relationships. One of her most celebrated works, "The Dazzle," premiered off-Broadway in 1983 and was later adapted into a film starring Sissy Spacek and Liza Minnelli. In addition to her playwriting, Burke wrote for television shows such as "Law & Order" and "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit." She also worked as an actress, appearing in several stage productions and films throughout her career. In 2005, Burke was awarded the prestigious Susan Glaspell Award for her contributions to American theater. Throughout her life, Marylouise Burke remained dedicated to telling stories that resonated with audiences and challenged societal norms. Her work continues to be performed and celebrated today, serving as a testament to her enduring impact on American theater.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"The greatest power we have is the power to choose."

This quote emphasizes the profound importance of individual agency and personal autonomy. It suggests that every person possesses a unique ability to make choices, and these decisions hold immense power in shaping our lives and defining who we are. The freedom to choose is what sets us apart as human beings, allowing us to chart our own paths, pursue our dreams, and determine the course of our destiny. The power to choose also implies responsibility, as our choices have consequences that impact ourselves and others around us. Essentially, this quote reminds us that we are not passive observers in life, but active participants with the ability to shape our experiences and carve out a unique identity for ourselves.


"Being a mother means you're not just responsible for your own life, but for another's as well."

This quote underscores the profound and transformative nature of motherhood. It signifies that becoming a mother entails a selfless expansion of one's personal responsibilities, transcending individual needs to encompass the nurturing and care for another human being. The quote poignantly conveys the idea that motherhood is not just about biological connection but about creating an environment conducive to growth, learning, and wellbeing for another soul.


"Life isn't about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself."

This quote by Marylouise Burke emphasizes that personal growth, self-discovery, and identity formation are active processes rather than passive discoveries. It suggests that individuals have the power to shape their own lives, to define who they are, and to create their unique identities through experiences, choices, actions, and interactions with the world around them. Essentially, it encourages personal autonomy, self-awareness, and resilience in shaping one's own destiny.


"Love is not just a feeling; it's a choice, a decision, an action."

This quote suggests that love extends beyond mere feelings or emotions. It emphasizes that love is also a conscious act of choosing to care for someone, making decisions that prioritize their well-being, and demonstrating it through actions. Love requires commitment, effort, and a dedication to nurture the relationship even when feelings may wane, thus encapsulating the concept of love as an active choice rather than just a passive emotion.


"The past can't be changed. The future is yet in our hands."

This quote emphasizes that we cannot alter what has already happened (the past), but we have the power to shape what lies ahead (the future). It suggests a focus on taking control of our present actions, decisions, and attitudes to create a desired outcome in the future. In essence, it's a call to action, urging us to learn from the past, grow, and make informed choices for a better tomorrow.


I had to take false steps and go through hard times to come out to where I am now. I can't imagine living without acting. It's not easy, and I don't disrespect anyone who steps out of it after a certain point. Having a family and a house is cool. It's not a betrayal. But if you're going to be an actor, it has to be more than a passing interest.

- Marylouise Burke

Betrayal, Through, Had, Actor

I was always a character actress, even when I was an ingenue. But as you age, people know what to do with you, and you're not quite as dependent on maintaining leading-lady beauty.

- Marylouise Burke

Beauty, Always, Actress, Maintaining

I got a rent-stabilized apartment in 1977, and that has made my life as an actor possible.

- Marylouise Burke

My Life, Actor, Made, Apartment

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