Meaning: This quote, attributed to the renowned actress Bette Davis, captures the overwhelming emotional experience of being on stage and feeling the love and adoration of an audience. Bette Davis is known for her captivating performances and her ability to convey deep emotion through her acting. In this quote, she eloquently describes the profound impact of the love and support she received from the audience, likening it to a powerful and enduring romance.

The imagery of "wave after wave of love" flooding the stage evokes a sense of immersion and intensity. It conveys the idea that the outpouring of love from the audience is relentless and all-encompassing, creating a profound and transformative experience for the performer. The use of the word "flooded" suggests a sense of being overwhelmed or consumed by the depth of emotion emanating from the audience.

As Davis describes the love "washing over" her, there is a sense of cleansing and renewal in her words. It's as though the love and adoration of the audience have the power to purify and uplift her spirit, providing a sense of renewal and purpose. This metaphorical language vividly captures the emotional impact of connecting with an audience in a performance setting.

The phrase "the beginning of the one great durable romance of my life" is particularly striking. Here, Davis suggests that the love and support she receives from her audience constitute a profound and enduring romance. This metaphorical comparison speaks to the depth of feeling and connection she experiences when performing for an audience. It implies that the bond between an artist and their audience is not fleeting but rather enduring and meaningful, akin to a lifelong romance.

It's worth noting that Bette Davis was known for her intense and passionate performances, and her ability to convey a wide range of emotions on screen. This quote offers a glimpse into the profound impact that the reciprocal exchange of emotions between performer and audience can have. It speaks to the symbiotic relationship between artist and audience, where each feeds off the energy and emotion of the other, creating a powerful and enduring connection.

In the context of Davis's career, this quote underscores the significance of the audience in shaping her experience as an actress. It highlights the mutual exchange of emotion and energy that occurs during a performance, emphasizing the transformative power of the artist-audience relationship.

Overall, Bette Davis's quote eloquently captures the profound emotional impact of connecting with an audience on stage. Her vivid imagery and metaphorical language convey the overwhelming sense of love and support that can wash over a performer, creating a lasting and meaningful bond akin to a great romance. This quote serves as a testament to the profound connection between artist and audience and the enduring impact of that relationship on the performer's life and work.