When Wole Soyinka speaks about enjoying company even when he’s writing plays, he means that his creative process benefits from interaction with others. He sees these interactions as integral to his work, viewing them almost like an audience for whom he's crafting his plays.
The deeper meaning of this quote is that the presence and feedback from others can significantly influence one's creativity and productivity. Soyinka’s statement suggests that writing or any form of artistic creation doesn’t need to be a solitary activity but rather can thrive on collaboration and dialogue with peers, mentors, and audiences. This approach fosters an environment where ideas are continuously refined through exchange and engagement.
Wole Soyinka is a renowned Nigerian playwright, poet, novelist, and essayist. Born in 1934, he became the first African writer to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1986 for his work that explores the moral challenges of both colonialism and military dictatorship in Africa. His writings often blend rich cultural traditions with profound social commentary, reflecting a deep commitment to exploring complex human experiences through diverse literary forms.