Meaning: The quote by Richard Foreman, a renowned playwright and avant-garde theater director, delves into the complex relationship between the artist, their work, and the audience's response. Foreman suggests that the true essence of art lies in the audience's reaction to it, implying that the response of the viewers or spectators is what ultimately defines the impact and significance of a piece of art. However, he also presents a paradoxical claim, stating that as an artist, he creates for himself and his own awakening, seemingly disregarding the audience's response.

Foreman's assertion that the real issue in art is the audience's response reflects a fundamental aspect of artistic creation and reception. Art is a form of communication, and the audience's interpretation and emotional engagement with the work are crucial in determining its success. The audience's response serves as a gauge of the artwork's ability to evoke feelings, provoke thoughts, and stimulate a meaningful exchange between the creator and the viewer. Without the audience's response, the art remains incomplete, as it is the interaction between the work and its viewers that gives it life and relevance.

On the other hand, Foreman's assertion that he creates for himself, aiming to "wake himself up," introduces a compelling perspective on artistic motivation. This notion aligns with the idea that art is a deeply personal and introspective endeavor for many creators. By expressing their innermost thoughts, emotions, and experiences through their work, artists often seek to explore and understand themselves, to challenge their own perceptions and beliefs, and to navigate the complexities of their existence. In this context, the act of creation becomes a form of self-discovery and self-realization, with the artist serving as both the creator and the primary audience for their own work.

Foreman's statement also raises questions about the dichotomy between artistic autonomy and the external validation provided by the audience's response. While he claims not to care about the audience's reaction, he acknowledges that he is creating for himself as an audience. This duality reflects the intricate nature of artistic expression, where the artist's inner journey and the external reception of their work are intertwined. It suggests that the artist's relationship with their audience is multifaceted, encompassing both a personal quest for enlightenment and a desire to connect with others through their creative output.

In essence, Foreman's quote encapsulates the intricate interplay between the artist, their work, and the audience. It highlights the significance of the audience's response in shaping the meaning and impact of art while also acknowledging the deeply personal and introspective nature of artistic creation. By contemplating the dynamic relationship between the artist and the audience, Foreman's words invite us to reflect on the multifaceted nature of art and the diverse motivations that drive creative expression.

Overall, this quote prompts us to consider the complex dynamics at play in the world of art, encouraging us to explore the interconnections between the artist's creative process, the audience's response, and the profound personal journey that underpins the act of creation.