Meaning: Adrian Mitchell, a prominent English poet, playwright, and children's author, expressed the significance of performance in poetry through his quote, "Written poetry is different. Best thing is to see it in performance first, then read it. Performance is more provocative." This statement encapsulates the idea that experiencing poetry through performance adds a layer of emotional and intellectual depth that may not be fully captured through written text alone.

When Mitchell asserts that "written poetry is different," he is acknowledging the distinct nature of poetry as a literary form. Written poetry exists as a static, visual representation of the poet's words and emotions. It allows readers to engage with the text at their own pace, absorbing the imagery and themes presented by the poet. However, Mitchell suggests that the true essence of poetry is best revealed through performance, indicating that the spoken word has the power to evoke a more immediate and visceral response from the audience.

The poet's recommendation to "see it in performance first, then read it" underscores the idea that experiencing poetry through performance can enhance one's understanding and appreciation of the work. When a poet performs their own work, or when a skilled performer recites a poem, the audience is not only exposed to the words themselves, but also to the nuances of tone, rhythm, and expression that imbue the poetry with added meaning and emotion. By witnessing the performance first, the audience is able to connect with the poet's intended delivery and emotional resonance before delving into the written text.

Mitchell's assertion that "performance is more provocative" speaks to the idea that the live interpretation of poetry has the potential to provoke stronger emotions and reactions compared to reading the same poem silently on a page. Through the medium of performance, poets can infuse their words with passion, urgency, and dramatic flair, creating an immersive experience that resonates with the audience on a deeper level. The dynamic nature of performance allows for the exploration of intonation, pacing, and physical gestures, all of which contribute to the evocative power of the spoken word.

It is important to note that while Mitchell emphasizes the potency of performance in poetry, he does not diminish the value of written poetry. Rather, he highlights the complementary relationship between the written and performed aspects of poetic expression. The written form preserves the poet's words for contemplation and reflection, while the performance brings those words to life, engaging the audience in a shared experience that transcends the confines of the page.

In conclusion, Adrian Mitchell's quote underscores the transformative impact of performance on the interpretation and reception of poetry. By advocating for the primacy of performance in experiencing poetry, Mitchell encourages audiences to embrace the multidimensional nature of poetic expression. Whether witnessed in a live setting or through recorded media, the performance of poetry serves as a powerful conduit for emotional connection, intellectual stimulation, and artistic enrichment. Mitchell's words remind us that while written poetry holds its own allure, it is through performance that the true essence and power of poetry can be fully realized and appreciated.