Meaning: This quote by Laurence Housman reflects on the significance of direct interaction with audiences as a playwright. Housman, a British playwright, and writer, emphasizes the value of engaging directly with audiences through lecturing and reading his own plays. He suggests that this direct interaction offers a deeper sense of fulfillment and motivation compared to receiving positive reviews from critics.

Housman's statement underscores the idea that the immediate feedback and appreciation from audiences play a vital role in shaping the experience of a playwright. This direct engagement with the audience allows for a more intimate and personal connection, which can be profoundly impactful for both the playwright and the audience. It provides an opportunity for the playwright to witness the immediate impact of their work on the audience, fostering a sense of validation and encouragement.

The phrase "find my feet as a lecturer" suggests that Housman sees the act of lecturing as a means of establishing himself and gaining confidence in his role as a playwright. Lecturing provides an avenue for Housman to express his insights, interpretations, and intentions behind his plays, allowing him to connect with audiences on a deeper level. This interaction enables him to gauge the audience's reactions and receive real-time feedback, which can be invaluable for his growth and development as a playwright.

Furthermore, Housman's reference to "reading my own plays to audiences who like to hear them" highlights the importance of connecting with receptive audiences. The act of reading his plays aloud to an audience allows Housman to witness their immediate reactions and responses, creating a symbiotic relationship between the playwright and the audience. This direct engagement enhances the experience for both parties, as the audience's appreciation serves as a source of motivation and inspiration for Housman's future creative endeavors.

Housman's assertion that "that experience of immediate appreciation gives greater pleasure and more stimulus towards further activity than even the most laudatory of reviews" speaks to the profound impact of direct audience interaction on his creative process. While positive reviews from critics are undoubtedly valuable, Housman suggests that the direct connection with audiences and their immediate appreciation hold a unique and unparalleled significance. The genuine and instantaneous response from the audience serves as a driving force for Housman, propelling him toward further creative endeavors.

In essence, Housman's quote underscores the intrinsic value of direct audience engagement for a playwright. It emphasizes the profound impact of immediate appreciation and feedback from audiences, highlighting the role of this interaction in shaping the playwright's confidence, fulfillment, and creative motivation. By directly connecting with audiences through lecturing and reading his own plays, Housman finds a source of inspiration and validation that transcends the impact of traditional critical acclaim. This perspective sheds light on the dynamic and reciprocal relationship between playwrights and their audiences, emphasizing the profound influence of direct interaction on the creative process.