Meaning: "Directing is: you're overwhelmed the whole time. Your mind never stops. If you care about it. You wake up in the morning and you begin thinking about it and then you go to sleep at night and you're still thinking about it." - Campbell Scott, Actor

This quote by Campbell Scott, an accomplished actor known for his work in film, television, and theater, provides a candid and insightful perspective on the demands and challenges of directing. In just a few sentences, Scott captures the all-encompassing nature of the director's role and the profound level of commitment and dedication required to excel in this challenging position.

Directing, as described by Scott, is a consuming endeavor that occupies the director's thoughts and energies from the moment they wake up until they retire for the night. The quote underscores the intense mental and emotional involvement inherent in the process of bringing a creative vision to life on stage or screen. It speaks to the unrelenting nature of the director's responsibilities and the deep personal investment required to steer a production towards success.

At the heart of Scott's words is the idea that directing is not simply a job or a task to be completed, but rather a way of life for those who are truly passionate about their craft. The constant preoccupation with the work at hand reflects the director's unwavering commitment to realizing their artistic vision and delivering a compelling and impactful experience for the audience.

The quote also sheds light on the emotional and psychological toll that directing can take on an individual. The sense of being "overwhelmed the whole time" speaks to the immense pressure and weight of responsibility that directors often carry. The relentless stream of thoughts and the ceaseless contemplation of the creative process can lead to mental exhaustion and emotional strain, highlighting the demanding and often exhausting nature of the role.

Furthermore, the mention of caring about the work as a prerequisite for this overwhelming experience underscores the deep emotional investment that directors have in their projects. It emphasizes that this all-encompassing nature of directing is not a burden, but rather a reflection of the director's genuine passion, dedication, and love for their craft.

In summary, Campbell Scott's quote offers a poignant and honest portrayal of the director's experience, encapsulating the consuming nature of the role and the unwavering commitment and dedication it demands. It serves as a reminder of the profound level of personal investment and emotional involvement required to excel in the field of directing, and provides valuable insight into the challenges and rewards of bringing artistic visions to life on stage and screen.