In simple terms, the statement suggests that actors should trust the words they are given to speak on stage or screen rather than trying to impose their own interpretations or emotional emphasis on them. This means letting the inherent power and meaning of the script guide their performance without adding unnecessary flair or personal touch.
Beyond its surface interpretation, this quote delves into the heart of storytelling and the craft of acting. It encourages performers to view themselves as conduits for the playwright's vision rather than auteurs who impose their own artistic interpretations on a text. By adhering strictly to the words provided, actors allow the audience to experience the story in its purest form, free from any additional layer that might distort the author’s original intent or the integrity of the narrative itself. This approach also respects the collaborative nature of creating theatre and film, emphasizing the importance of honoring the writer's work as a primary source of creative expression.
Conor McPherson is an Irish playwright, novelist, and screenwriter renowned for his distinctively atmospheric works that often explore themes of isolation and community in rural Ireland. His plays, such as "The Weir" and "Shining City," are celebrated for their poetic dialogue and nuanced character studies, earning him critical acclaim both at home and internationally. Through this quote, McPherson underscores the importance of respecting the playwright’s intent while also highlighting his belief in the intrinsic power of language to evoke emotion and tell a story effectively.
