Meaning: This quote by Laurence Housman sheds light on his perspective as a writer and the challenges he faced when transitioning from being a man of letters to a dramatist. The quote reflects his realization that being a playwright requires a different approach and skill set than being a writer of prose or poetry. Housman's acknowledgment of the technical demands of playwriting and the need for economical writing highlights the distinct nature of dramatic writing.

In the quote, Housman admits that he had never considered himself a dramatist. This admission suggests that he primarily identified as a writer in other literary forms, such as poetry or prose. It is possible that he initially approached playwriting with a mindset and style more suited to his previous work, thereby encountering challenges in adapting to the specific requirements of dramatic writing.

Housman's mention of "really good technical results" indicates his awareness of the technical precision and craftsmanship necessary for successful playwriting. The term "technical results" suggests that he recognized the importance of structure, dialogue, and stage directions in creating a compelling and effective dramatic work. This understanding aligns with the notion that playwriting requires a unique set of skills and considerations distinct from those of other literary forms.

Moreover, Housman's observation that "a man of letters has become too wordy to write economically for the stage" highlights a key difference between prose or poetry and dramatic writing. In traditional literary forms, writers often have the freedom to explore themes, characters, and settings through descriptive language and expansive narratives. However, the stage imposes constraints on language and space, necessitating concise and impactful dialogue, as well as efficient use of setting and stage directions to convey the story.

Housman's use of the term "economically" underscores the need for efficiency and precision in conveying ideas and advancing the plot within the confines of a theatrical performance. This requirement for economy in writing reflects the practical considerations of stage productions, where time, space, and audience attention are limited resources that must be carefully managed.

Overall, Housman's quote provides insight into the challenges and realizations he faced as he grappled with the transition from being a man of letters to a playwright. It serves as a reminder of the distinct demands and technical nuances of dramatic writing, emphasizing the need for conciseness, precision, and an acute understanding of the stage as a medium for storytelling.

In summary, Laurence Housman's quote encapsulates the unique demands and challenges of playwriting, highlighting the shift in mindset and approach required when transitioning from other literary forms to the stage. His recognition of the technical requirements and the need for economical writing underscores the distinct nature of dramatic writing and the importance of adapting to the specific constraints and opportunities presented by the theatrical medium.