Meaning: This quote by David Antin, a prominent poet and performance artist, reflects his perspective on his artistic approach and the influence of Allan and George Brecht on his work. The quote suggests that, despite not adhering to traditional scripting or utilizing other performers in his work, Antin finds common ground with the Brecht brothers due to their shared appreciation for underlying precision.

David Antin is known for his innovative approach to poetry and performance art, often incorporating elements of improvisation and storytelling into his work. His performances typically involve him engaging in spontaneous, unscripted monologues that are both thought-provoking and engaging. This improvisational style allows Antin to convey his ideas and emotions in a raw and unfiltered manner, creating a unique and intimate connection with his audience.

In the quote, Antin acknowledges that he does not rely on scripted material or the involvement of other performers in his work. This sets him apart from traditional theater and performance practices, as well as from many of his contemporaries in the art world. Instead, he emphasizes the importance of underlying precision in his creative process, implying that while his performances may appear spontaneous, they are underpinned by a careful and deliberate approach to crafting his narratives and messages.

Allan and George Brecht, influential figures in the world of avant-garde art and performance, are known for their contributions to the Fluxus movement. Fluxus was a loosely affiliated group of artists, composers, and designers who sought to blur the boundaries between different artistic disciplines and challenge traditional notions of art and performance. George Brecht, in particular, was known for his "event scores," which were brief written instructions that served as prompts for unscripted, often mundane actions performed by individuals or groups.

Antin's reference to Allan and George Brecht suggests that he sees parallels between his own artistic sensibilities and the ideas espoused by the Brecht brothers. Despite their differing approaches to performance and artistic expression, Antin identifies a shared emphasis on precision and structure that transcends the surface-level differences in their work. This alignment of values implies that Antin sees himself as part of a broader tradition of avant-garde experimentation and innovation in the arts.

Overall, this quote offers insight into David Antin's artistic philosophy and his position within the broader landscape of avant-garde performance and poetry. It highlights his commitment to spontaneity and precision, as well as his willingness to draw inspiration from diverse sources, including the influential work of the Brecht brothers. By embracing these principles, Antin has carved out a distinctive and influential voice in the realm of contemporary poetry and performance art, leaving an indelible mark on the creative landscape.