Meaning: This quote by Laurence Olivier, one of the most celebrated actors of the 20th century, captures the essence of the actor's passion and dedication to their craft. Olivier, known for his remarkable performances on stage and screen, conveys a sense of aspiration and reverence for the art of acting in this statement. Let's delve into the deeper meaning behind these words and explore the significance of Olivier's perspective on the actor's role in the world of performing arts.

In the quote, Olivier expresses a desire to elevate himself to a transcendent state, likening the experience of acting to soaring through the heavens, with his head tilted toward the gods. This imagery evokes a sense of spiritual and artistic transcendence, suggesting that the act of performing allows the actor to transcend the limitations of earthly existence and connect with something divine and sublime. It speaks to the transformative power of acting, the ability to transport both the performer and the audience to a higher plane of emotional and intellectual experience.

The reference to "feeding on the caviar of Shakespeare" underscores Olivier's reverence for the works of the great playwright. Shakespeare's plays are often regarded as the pinnacle of dramatic literature, and by invoking the image of consuming the finest delicacy, Olivier emphasizes the nourishing and enriching nature of engaging with Shakespeare's timeless words and characters. This portrayal of Shakespeare's work as a source of intellectual and artistic sustenance reflects Olivier's deep appreciation for the depth and complexity of the material that actors have the privilege to bring to life on stage or screen.

The final assertion, "An actor must act," encapsulates Olivier's belief in the fundamental imperative of the actor's vocation. It is a concise and powerful declaration of the actor's essential purpose: to act, to bring characters to life, to embody the human experience in all its myriad forms. This statement also implies a sense of duty and commitment, emphasizing that the core responsibility of an actor is to engage in the act of performing, to fully embrace and embody the roles they undertake.

Olivier's quote reflects the dedication and reverence that he and many other actors hold for their craft. It speaks to the transformative power of acting, the ability to transport both the performer and the audience to a higher plane of emotional and intellectual experience. It also underscores the profound impact of engaging with great works of literature, such as the plays of Shakespeare, and the vital role of the actor in bringing these works to life.

In conclusion, Laurence Olivier's quote encapsulates the profound reverence and dedication that he and many actors have for the art of acting. It conveys a sense of aspiration, spiritual transcendence, and deep respect for the works of Shakespeare, while also emphasizing the fundamental duty of the actor to act. Olivier's words resonate with the timeless and universal significance of the actor's craft, reminding us of the transformative power of performance and the enduring impact of great works of literature on the stage and screen.