The iconic martial arts legend, Bruce Lee is widely known for his extraordinary skills and unwavering dedication to his craft. However, the late actor has acknowledged the elusive nature of one particular aspect of martial arts, true self-expression. Being a philosopher as much as a fighter, he believed that martial arts extended beyond physical prowess and took one on a journey of self-discovery. And he explained the same in a 1971 interview with Pierre Berton.
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Bruce Lee on Self Discovery Through Martial Arts
In a 1971 interview with Pierre Berton, Bruce Lee discussed various aspects of martial arts. Talking about its meaning, he highlighted the difficulty of genuine self-expression, especially within the context of martial arts and personal development.
Lee pointed out how easily one could put on a show and look impressive with flashy moves, and it would help to create a superficial image of skill and confidence. However, he also shared that what may come as a challenge will be the art of expressing oneself honestly.
“I can make all kinds of phony things, you know what I mean, blinded by it or I can show you some really fancy movement. But to express oneself honestly, not lying to oneself, and to express myself honestly…now that, my friend, is very hard to do.”
The Fist of Fury star emphasized how true mastery comes from the hard work of being real and honest with oneself, stating it as a fundamental aspect of personal development that allows individuals to improve and grow with regular training.
Bruce Lee Did Not Like Being Called a “Superstar”
During the interview, Bruce Lee was also asked about gaining stardom in Hong Kong and Hollywood, as Pierre Berton referred to him as a superstar. However, he claimed that he didn’t like being described as a superstar. “Well, let me say this. First of all, the word superstar really turned me off,” he said.
Lee emphasized that the word “star” is more like an illusion. And although it denoted an individual’s reputation and status in the industry and among the audience, he would rather be pleased when someone told him, “Hey man, you are a super actor.” He claimed that it is much better than being called a superstar, a term he personally did not like to describe himself as.
