Meaning: The quote "The actor should not play a part. Like the Aeolian harps that used to be hung in the trees to be played only by the breeze, the actor should be an instrument played upon by the character he depicts" by Alla Nazimova, an actress and theater producer, speaks to the idea of the actor's role in portraying a character. Nazimova's analogy to the Aeolian harp, an instrument that produces sound when the wind passes through its strings, suggests that the actor should allow the character to influence and guide their performance, rather than imposing their own interpretation onto the role.

This approach to acting emphasizes the idea of surrendering oneself to the character, allowing their traits, emotions, and motivations to flow through the actor and manifest in their performance. It suggests that the actor's job is not to impose their own personality or mannerisms onto the character, but rather to become a vessel through which the character can express themselves authentically.

Nazimova's analogy also highlights the idea that the actor should be receptive and responsive to the nuances of the character they are portraying. Much like the Aeolian harp only produces sound when the wind interacts with it, the actor's performance should be shaped by the internal and external influences of the character. This requires a deep understanding of the character's background, psychology, and relationships, as well as a willingness to embody and convey their experiences and emotions.

In essence, Nazimova's quote advocates for a form of acting that prioritizes empathy, immersion, and vulnerability. It encourages actors to approach their roles with a sense of openness and receptivity, allowing the character to guide and shape their performance. This approach can lead to more nuanced and authentic portrayals, as the actor's focus shifts from showcasing their own abilities to channeling the essence of the character they are embodying.

Furthermore, Nazimova's perspective aligns with the principles of method acting, a technique popularized by practitioners such as Stanislavski and later developed by acting teachers like Lee Strasberg. Method acting emphasizes the use of personal experiences, emotional memory, and psychological exploration to connect deeply with the character and their circumstances. By surrendering to the character in the way Nazimova describes, actors can access profound emotional truths and deliver performances that resonate with audiences on a deeply human level.

It's important to note that while Nazimova's quote offers valuable insight into the art of acting, it also sparks discussions about the balance between surrendering to a character and maintaining a sense of individuality as an actor. Finding the equilibrium between fully immersing oneself in a role and retaining a sense of personal identity and interpretation is a challenge that actors grapple with as they navigate the complexities of character portrayal.

In conclusion, Alla Nazimova's quote offers a profound perspective on the actor's relationship to their character, highlighting the importance of surrender, receptivity, and authenticity in the art of acting. By embracing the role of the instrument played upon by the character, actors can strive to create performances that are deeply resonant, emotionally compelling, and rich in human complexity.