" There is no theoretical study of motherhood. You know, before I became a mother, I did play a mother, but I was like – I was more thinking of my own mother. I was doing my mother. "
- Joan Chen

In the given statement, Joan Chen reflects on her experience as an actress who portrayed a mother on screen before becoming a real-life mother herself. She notes that when she was acting, her portrayal of maternal roles was heavily influenced by her own understanding and memories of her mother. Essentially, Chen is saying that her performance was based on personal experiences rather than a theoretical or detached perspective.

The deeper meaning of this quote extends beyond the context of acting to address how our lived experiences shape our perceptions and actions in various roles we play throughout life. It suggests that when we take on different personas or responsibilities—whether it be as parents, professionals, or community members—we draw from our personal histories and relationships rather than relying solely on abstract knowledge or theoretical models. This implies a powerful interplay between personal experience and the performance of societal roles.

Joan Chen is an accomplished Chinese-American actress known for her work in both film and television. Born in Shanghai, she moved to the United States at the age of 20 where she began her acting career with appearances on stage and screen. Some of her notable works include roles in films like "Memoirs of a Geisha" and "The Last Emperor." Chen's reflections often blend insights from her personal life with her professional experiences, making her perspectives valuable for audiences interested in the intersection of identity, culture, and performance.