“I'm living in the present. I have no ambition. It's true. But I want to live.”
Gerard Depardieu
“I'm living in the present. I have no ambition. It's true. But I want to live.”
Gerard Depardieu
Gérard Depardieu, born on December 27, 1948, is a French actor renowned for his prolific and diverse career in cinema. Having appeared in over 200 films, Depardieu is one of France’s most iconic and versatile actors, known for roles in films such as Cyrano de Bergerac and The Man in the Iron Mask. Beyond his acting, Depardieu’s life has often been marked by personal and philosophical reflections on fame, success, and existence.
His quote, “I’m living in the present. I have no ambition. It’s true. But I want to live,” encapsulates a deep sense of contentment and a focus on being fully immersed in the present moment. Depardieu, in this statement, conveys a departure from the typical drive for ambition, success, and future goals that often characterize both personal and professional life, especially in the competitive world of acting. Instead, he embraces a more existential view—one that prioritizes living authentically and fully in the now.
This outlook reflects a philosophy where the pursuit of ambition is replaced by a more immediate, mindful approach to life. Rather than being consumed by desires for more accolades, wealth, or status, Depardieu suggests that his main focus is simply to live. This can be interpreted as a desire for a richer, more meaningful experience of life itself—enjoying the present without the burden of constantly striving for future achievements.
Depardieu’s reflection on having "no ambition" does not imply a lack of purpose or direction but rather a conscious choice to shift away from the pressures of ambition. It speaks to the idea that living fully in the moment, appreciating life as it comes, is a form of fulfillment that is often overshadowed by relentless pursuit of success. His desire "to live" signifies a deeper, perhaps more spiritual or existential, quest for meaning and joy in everyday experiences.
In summary, Gérard Depardieu's quote reveals his embrace of the present moment and his rejection of ambition as a guiding force. His words encourage an appreciation for life’s simple pleasures and a mindful approach to existence, focusing on living authentically and without the distractions of future-driven ambition.