Meaning: This quote by Peter Garrett, an Australian musician and former politician, captures a sentiment that is often associated with the performing arts. The phrase "the roar of the crowd, the smell of the greasepaint" is a well-known expression that encapsulates the excitement and adrenaline rush experienced by performers when they are on stage. However, Garrett's statement "no I don't feel that" suggests that he does not necessarily resonate with this traditional notion of performance.

Peter Garrett is best known as the lead vocalist of the Australian rock band Midnight Oil, which achieved international success with their politically charged music. As a musician and activist, Garrett's perspective on performance is likely shaped by his unique experiences and the values he holds.

One interpretation of Garrett's statement could be that he does not seek the validation or thrill that often comes with performing in front of a live audience. Instead, he may prioritize the message and impact of his music over the external trappings of fame and applause. For Garrett, the essence of performance may lie in the opportunity to communicate important ideas and connect with audiences on a deeper level, rather than in the fleeting sensations of crowd approval or the sensory aspects of the stage environment.

It's important to note that Garrett's background as an activist and environmentalist also informs his perspective on performance. Throughout his career, he has been deeply involved in advocating for social and environmental causes, using his platform as a musician to raise awareness and incite change. This commitment to activism may influence the way he views the purpose of performance, placing greater emphasis on the potential for music to inspire action and reflection rather than simply entertain.

Additionally, Garrett's statement could be seen as a rejection of the romanticized image of the rock star or performer, one that is often associated with excess, ego, and a hunger for adulation. By disavowing the traditional trappings of performance, Garrett may be emphasizing the authenticity and sincerity of his artistic expression, seeking to distance himself from the clichés and stereotypes that can accompany the music industry.

In a broader sense, Garrett's words prompt a reconsideration of what it means to truly connect with an audience and make an impact as a performer. By eschewing the superficial elements of performance, he challenges the notion that success is solely measured by the size of the crowd or the volume of its applause. Instead, he invites us to contemplate the deeper significance of artistic expression and the potential for music to provoke thought, provoke change, and resonate with people in a profound and meaningful way.

In conclusion, Peter Garrett's quote encapsulates a thought-provoking perspective on the nature of performance and the purpose of artistic expression. It invites us to reexamine our preconceptions about what it means to truly connect with an audience and to consider the deeper motivations that drive performers in their creative endeavors. By offering a counterpoint to the familiar imagery of the rock star or entertainer, Garrett challenges us to look beyond the superficial trappings of fame and applause and to appreciate the potential for music to serve as a catalyst for change and meaningful dialogue.