Edward Bond: 'It's insulting to ask a dramatist what his view of his play is. I have no opinion.'

It's insulting to ask a dramatist what his view of his play is. I have no opinion.

Edward Bond's quote, "It's insulting to ask a dramatist what his view of his play is. I have no opinion," carries a straightforward meaning that challenges the conventional expectation of a playwright's insight into his own work. As Bond bluntly states, it can be seen as disrespectful to inquire about a dramatist's interpretation of their play. The quote suggests that the playwright's perspective may not hold any particular weight or relevance to the audience's understanding and appreciation of the work. This concept sparks an intriguing philosophical discussion about the nature of art, authorship, and the subjective nature of interpretation.To delve deeper into this discussion, let us introduce the concept of Death of the Author, coined by Roland Barthes, a French literary theorist. Barthes argues that the intention and biographical details of an author should be set aside when interpreting a work of art. According to this theory, the author's opinion or intention is irrelevant, and the meaning of a play should be solely derived from the interactions between the text and the reader or spectator.In the case of Edward Bond's quote, it seems to align with the Death of the Author philosophy. Bond asserts that he has no opinion on his play. This could indicate a deliberate choice to distance himself from the concept of authorship and the assumption that his viewpoint holds paramount importance. By adopting such a stance, Bond allows for the possibility that his work can be interpreted by others without the constraints of his own personal perspective.While this approach may initially perplex those accustomed to seeking authorial guidance, it highlights the transformative power of literature and theater. A play, in its essence, is a living entity that comes to life through the interpretation and interaction of its audience. Each person brings their own unique experiences, beliefs, and perspectives to the theater, which in turn shapes their understanding and meaning-making process.From this viewpoint, a playwright's opinion becomes just one of many potential lenses through which a play can be experienced. The absence of an authorial viewpoint leaves space for the audience members to engage with the work on their own terms, fostering a personal connection and allowing for diverse interpretations.Furthermore, Bond's quote challenges the notion of a definitive interpretation or fixed meaning in dramatic art. By disclaiming any personal perspective on his work, Bond opens the door for endless possibilities and encourages active engagement with his plays rather than passive acceptance of a pre-determined message.In this light, Bond's quote invites us to reflect on the multifaceted nature of theater and the ever-shifting dynamics between playwright, performers, and spectators. It prompts us to question the authority we often grant to the creator and encourages a more egalitarian approach to the appreciation and understanding of art.Ultimately, Edward Bond's statement challenges the traditional role of the dramatist and invites us to delve into a philosophical discourse surrounding the nature of art and interpretation. By embracing the Death of the Author concept, Bond's quote urges us to move beyond the limitations of the author's intention and explore the rich tapestry of perspectives that can be woven through the theatrical experience. It sparks a dialogue that allows art to breathe, evolve, and connect with audiences on a deeper level.