Meaning: Ivor Novello, a prominent figure in the British entertainment industry during the early 20th century, made this insightful observation about the challenges and demands of mastering the art of love in the context of performance and entertainment. Novello was not only a musician but also a playwright and actor, known for his contributions to the world of music and theater. In this quote, he addresses the inherent difficulties and obstacles that performers face in truly embodying and expressing genuine love on stage or screen.

When Novello mentions "the inconvenience, the glaring lights, the long hours of waiting, and the repetition of every scene," he is highlighting the external factors that can hinder the authentic portrayal of love in a performance. The "inconvenience" likely refers to the myriad logistical challenges and discomforts that actors and musicians often endure during rehearsals and productions. This could encompass everything from costume fittings and makeup sessions to long hours of standing by on set or backstage.

The "glaring lights" allude to the intense and sometimes harsh illumination of stage or studio lighting, which can be physically and mentally taxing for performers. These lights not only serve a practical purpose in ensuring visibility for the audience but also have a psychological impact on the artists, as they are constantly under scrutiny and exposed to the audience's gaze.

Moreover, the "long hours of waiting" point to the often tedious and laborious aspects of the entertainment industry. Actors and musicians frequently spend prolonged periods in preparation, whether it's waiting for their cue during filming or enduring lengthy rehearsals to perfect their performances. This waiting can lead to fatigue, impatience, and a sense of disconnect from the emotions they are trying to convey.

The "repetition of every scene" underscores the repetitive nature of performing arts, where actors and musicians are required to recreate the same emotions and interactions repeatedly. This can lead to a sense of emotional detachment and artificiality, as the spontaneity and freshness of genuine emotion are gradually eroded through the repetition of scripted or choreographed scenes.

Novello's assertion that these factors are "calculated to defeat anything more than a real mastery of love technique" suggests that the challenges inherent in the performance environment can hinder the authentic expression of love. The emphasis on "mastery of love technique" implies that performers must develop a skillful and disciplined approach to portraying love, almost as if it were a technical craft to be honed and perfected.

In essence, Novello's quote sheds light on the complexities of portraying love in the world of entertainment, where external pressures and repetitive routines can impede the genuine expression of emotion. It serves as a reminder that behind the glamour and allure of the stage or screen, performers grapple with numerous challenges in their quest to authentically embody love in their art.

Overall, Novello's insightful observation provides valuable insight into the nuanced dynamics of love portrayal in the performing arts, offering a deeper understanding of the intricate balance between technique and authenticity in the realm of entertainment.