D. H. Lawrence: 'I hate the actor and audience business. An author should be in among the crowd, kicking their shins or cheering them on to some mischief or merriment.'

I hate the actor and audience business. An author should be in among the crowd, kicking their shins or cheering them on to some mischief or merriment.

The quote by D.H. Lawrence - "I hate the actor and audience business. An author should be in among the crowd, kicking their shins or cheering them on to some mischief or merriment" - carries a straightforward and insightful message about the role of an author. Lawrence suggests that an author should actively engage with the crowd, both challenging and encouraging them towards excitement and amusement. This statement emphasizes the importance of the author's presence within their own work, which contrasts with the traditional notion of authors being distant observers.Digging deeper into this quote, an unexpected philosophical concept arises: the idea of authenticity and genuine connection. By advocating for authors to be immersed in the crowd, Lawrence advocates for a more genuine and authentic artistic expression. This concept underlines the significance of being actively involved in the human experience, stepping away from the conventional detachment that is often attributed to writers.Lawrence's disdain for the "actor and audience business" suggests a rejection of the notion that an author should merely act as an observer or entertainer. Instead, he proposes that authors should partake in the tumultuous journey of human existence - they should walk among the crowd, mingle with the masses, and experience all facets of life. This active engagement allows authors to craft stories that resonate deeply with readers, as they draw inspiration and empathy from their own experiences and interactions.In contrast to Lawrence's perspective, traditional notions of authorship often depict writers as distant figures, removed from the everyday struggles and joys of life. This depiction suggests that authors can only observe and interpret, leaving the audience to interpret and derive meaning from their work. However, Lawrence challenges this conventional wisdom, asserting that true artistry can only be achieved through active participation.By being in the midst of the crowd, authors have the opportunity to directly observe human behavior, nuances of emotion, and the intricacies of societal structures. This unfiltered exposure to real-life experiences enables authors to create more authentic narratives that resonate with readers on a profound level. Additionally, by engaging with the crowd, authors can tap into the collective consciousness, understanding the current zeitgeist and capturing the essence of the times.Lawrence's perspective aligns with the idea that true connection can only occur through active participation. Just as a performer who interacts with an audience receives immediate feedback and creates a unique experience for each viewer, an engaged author can establish an intimate connection with their readers. This connection transcends the traditional boundaries of storytelling, allowing authors to touch the hearts and souls of their audience.Moreover, the active involvement of the author breaks down barriers between creator and audience. It fosters an environment where both parties are mutually engaged, with the author leading the charge and the audience responding passionately. This dynamic interaction creates a collective experience, generating a vibrant energy that propels the narrative forward. By setting aside the conventional roles of actor and audience, authors can weave an interactive tapestry, where readers become participants rather than passive recipients of the story.In conclusion, D.H. Lawrence's quote highlights the significance of an author immersing themselves in the crowd, rather than being a detached observer. Lawrence champions the idea that true artistry stems from genuine interaction and participation in the human experience. By being actively engaged, authors can create narratives that resonate deeply with readers, forging an authentic connection between creator and audience. This perspective challenges traditional notions of authorship, emphasizing the importance of sincere, immersive storytelling that captivates and inspires. So, let us heed Lawrence's words and embrace the opportunity to kick shins, incite mischief, and cheer on the crowd towards a world of imagination and creativity.