In this quote, Katharine Cornell describes her feelings of anxiety and dissatisfaction throughout her career as an actress. She begins by acknowledging that she felt nervous from the outset, a feeling which intensified over time. Despite her conscientious efforts to do more than what was expected, she found herself constantly falling short of her ambitions. This sense of inadequacy persisted through every performance day, starting from early afternoons when preparations began.
The quote delves deeper into themes of ambition and the pressure that comes with striving for excellence in one's field. Cornell reveals a profound inner conflict between her desire to excel and the reality of not feeling content or fulfilled despite her efforts. This suggests a broader issue within performance arts where artists may feel compelled to constantly push beyond their limits, leading to an unending cycle of dissatisfaction. Such sentiments resonate with many professionals who face similar pressures in their respective careers.
Katharine Cornell was a renowned American actress and theatre producer known for her powerful performances on stage during the early 20th century. Her career spanned several decades, during which she earned critical acclaim and recognition from peers and audiences alike. Despite this success, Cornell's reflection underscores the personal struggles that often accompany professional achievements, highlighting the human side of an accomplished artist.
