Meaning: This quote by James Lipton, an American writer, composer, actor, and dean emeritus of the Actors Studio Drama School at Pace University in New York City, provides insight into his approach to conducting interviews. Lipton is best known for creating and hosting the television show "Inside the Actors Studio," where he interviewed various actors, directors, and writers about their craft and experiences in the entertainment industry. In this quote, Lipton reflects on his decision not to pre-interview his guests and instead rely on his own research process, which he estimates takes two weeks.

Lipton's decision not to pre-interview his guests was driven by both practical and philosophical considerations. On a practical level, Lipton mentions that the show couldn't afford the resources required for pre-interviews. This highlights the constraints of producing a television show and the need to make strategic decisions about how to allocate limited resources. By choosing not to pre-interview his guests, Lipton was opting for a more cost-effective approach that would still allow him to conduct in-depth and insightful interviews.

However, Lipton's decision also reflects a deeper commitment to the art of research and preparation. He acknowledges that by not pre-interviewing his guests, he is forced to undertake his own research, a process that he estimates takes two weeks. This reveals a dedication to thoroughness and a belief in the value of investing time and effort into understanding his subjects. Lipton's approach suggests that he sees research as an essential part of the interview process, allowing him to uncover meaningful insights and ask informed, probing questions during his interviews.

The quote also sheds light on Lipton's view of the interview as a collaborative and intellectual endeavor. By emphasizing the importance of doing his own research, he is signaling a commitment to engaging with his guests on a deeper level and fostering meaningful conversations. This approach aligns with the ethos of "Inside the Actors Studio," which aimed to provide a platform for thoughtful and in-depth discussions about the craft of acting and the experiences of artists in the entertainment industry.

Lipton's two-week research process likely involves delving into the guest's body of work, their personal background, and any relevant industry news or developments. By immersing himself in this research, Lipton can gain a comprehensive understanding of his guest's career trajectory, influences, and contributions to their field. This depth of knowledge allows him to ask incisive and thought-provoking questions during the interview, leading to insightful and illuminating conversations for both the audience and the interviewee.

Overall, Lipton's quote provides valuable insight into his approach to conducting interviews and the importance he places on research and preparation. It demonstrates a dedication to thoroughness, a commitment to engaging with guests on a meaningful level, and a pragmatic approach to managing resources. By choosing to eschew pre-interviews in favor of his own research process, Lipton sets a high standard for the depth and quality of his interviews, contributing to the enduring legacy of "Inside the Actors Studio" as a platform for insightful and compelling conversations with leading figures in the entertainment industry.