Meaning: The quote "Good plays drive bad playgoers crazy" by Brooks Atkinson, a renowned critic, encapsulates the idea that a truly exceptional play has the power to unsettle, challenge, and provoke discomfort in audiences who may not be receptive or attuned to its depth, complexity, and artistic merit. Atkinson, a prominent theater critic for The New York Times from 1925 to 1960, possessed a discerning eye for theatrical excellence and a keen understanding of the dynamic relationship between the audience and the performance. His quote reflects the notion that exceptional works of theater have the capacity to elicit strong emotional and intellectual responses, even if those reactions are not uniformly positive.

In essence, Atkinson's quote speaks to the idea that a good play has the potential to disrupt the complacency of certain audience members, particularly those who approach theater with preconceived notions, limited openness to new experiences, or a narrow understanding of what constitutes quality in dramatic art. It suggests that when confronted with a truly exceptional play, individuals who are not receptive or open-minded may find themselves uncomfortable, challenged, or even resistant to the unconventional or thought-provoking elements of the performance.

Atkinson's perspective on the impact of good plays on "bad playgoers" underscores the transformative power of theater and its ability to push boundaries, question norms, and stimulate intellectual and emotional engagement. It implies that good plays have the capacity to challenge the status quo, disrupt conventional thinking, and compel audiences to confront uncomfortable truths or unfamiliar perspectives. In this sense, Atkinson's quote serves as a reminder of the transformative potential of theater as a medium for social commentary, cultural critique, and artistic innovation.

Moreover, Atkinson's assertion invites consideration of the role and responsibility of the audience in the theatrical experience. It suggests that the effectiveness and impact of a play are contingent not only on the quality of the performance but also on the receptivity, openness, and willingness of the audience to engage with the material on a deeper level. By acknowledging the potential for discord between exceptional plays and unresponsive audiences, Atkinson highlights the importance of cultivating a discerning, receptive, and open-minded approach to theater-going, one that embraces the discomfort and challenges that may arise from encountering truly outstanding dramatic works.

In conclusion, Brooks Atkinson's quote "Good plays drive bad playgoers crazy" encapsulates the idea that exceptional plays have the power to unsettle, challenge, and provoke discomfort in audiences who may not be receptive or attuned to their artistic merit. It serves as a reminder of the transformative potential of theater to disrupt complacency, challenge conventional thinking, and compel audiences to engage with uncomfortable truths and unfamiliar perspectives. Atkinson's perspective underscores the importance of cultivating a discerning, open-minded approach to theater and recognizing the profound impact that exceptional plays can have on individuals, regardless of their initial receptivity.