Meaning: This quote by Elmer Rice, a renowned American playwright, captures the challenge of providing feedback on a scenario or script without having experienced the actual performance or production. It reflects the dilemma faced by individuals who are asked to evaluate creative works based solely on a written description or summary, rather than on a firsthand experience.

Elmer Rice was known for his insightful and thought-provoking plays that often delved into the complexities of human relationships and societal issues. His quote reflects a common scenario in the world of theater and performing arts, where creators and writers seek feedback on their scripts or scenarios before they are brought to life on stage.

The quote begins with the narrator recounting a conversation with someone who approached them with a sense of self-satisfaction, seeking their opinion on a scenario. The narrator's initial reaction is one of uncertainty, as they admit to hardly knowing how to answer the question posed to them. This feeling of perplexity highlights the challenge of evaluating a creative work based solely on a description or summary, especially when the evaluator has not witnessed the actual performance.

The narrator's response to the individual's question further reveals their hesitation, as they inquire whether the person has actually seen the play in question. The narrator expresses a lack of surprise when the individual admits to not having experienced the play firsthand. This exchange underscores the inherent difficulty of forming a meaningful and informed opinion about a creative work without having witnessed its realization on stage.

The quote encapsulates the notion that a script or scenario, no matter how well-constructed or compelling on paper, can only truly come to life and be fully understood through its enactment and performance. It emphasizes the importance of experiencing the nuances of a play, including the delivery of lines, the interactions between characters, the staging, and the overall atmosphere created by the live performance.

From a broader perspective, Elmer Rice's quote can be seen as a reflection of the limitations of conveying the essence and impact of a theatrical work through written descriptions alone. It underscores the unique and immersive nature of live theater, where the convergence of script, acting, directing, and production elements culminates in a holistic and multi-dimensional experience for the audience.

In the context of providing feedback or criticism, the quote serves as a reminder of the value of informed and experiential assessment. It suggests that a more meaningful and insightful evaluation can be offered when based on firsthand observation and engagement with the actual performance, rather than relying solely on a written scenario or synopsis.

In conclusion, Elmer Rice's quote encapsulates the challenge of evaluating creative works, particularly in the realm of theater and performance, without the benefit of firsthand experience. It underscores the unique and transformative nature of live theater, and the inherent limitations of assessing a play based solely on a written scenario. The quote serves as a poignant reminder of the profound impact and richness of the theatrical experience, and the importance of experiential engagement in forming meaningful evaluations and critiques.