"It was not until I had graduated from college that I made a professional commitment to it. Frankly, I didn't think it wise. I was my own interior parental force, and it's very difficult to justify a profession as a dancer"

Twyla Tharp's quote talks to the difficulty of pursuing a career in dance. Despite her enthusiasm for the art form, she was hesitant to make a professional dedication to it. She was her own "interior parental force," indicating she was her own harshest critic and was uncertain if it was a good idea to pursue a profession in dance. This quote speaks to the problem of pursuing a career in the arts, as it is frequently seen as a risky and uncertain course. It likewise speaks to the value of self-confidence and believing in oneself, as Tharp was able to conquer her doubts and make a professional dedication to dance. Her quote is a pointer that it is possible to pursue a career in the arts, even if it is viewed as a dangerous decision.