Meaning: Denis Johnson, an American writer known for his novels and poetry, made the statement, "All the modern verse plays, they're terrible; they're mostly about the poetry. It's more important that the play is first." This quote reflects his perspective on contemporary verse plays and the balance between poetry and theatricality.

In understanding Johnson's quote, it is important to recognize the distinction between traditional plays and verse plays. While traditional plays are predominantly written in prose, verse plays are characterized by the use of poetic language and structures. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in verse plays, with playwrights experimenting with language and form to create theatrical works that are both poetic and dramatic.

Johnson's critique of modern verse plays as "terrible" suggests his dissatisfaction with the current state of this genre. He asserts that they are "mostly about the poetry," implying that the focus on poetic language overshadows other important elements of a play. This aligns with his belief that "It's more important that the play is first," emphasizing the primacy of the dramatic aspects over the poetic ones.

The quote can be interpreted as a call for a reevaluation of the balance between poetry and theatricality in verse plays. Johnson seems to advocate for a greater emphasis on the dramatic elements such as character, plot, and conflict, rather than an overwhelming focus on poetic language. His statement raises questions about the purpose of verse plays and the extent to which they should prioritize poetic expression over the traditional elements of a play.

It is worth noting that Johnson's perspective may stem from his own background as a writer of both prose and poetry. He may be wary of verse plays that prioritize poetic virtuosity at the expense of compelling storytelling and character development. Johnson's emphasis on the primacy of the play suggests a desire for verse plays to engage and resonate with audiences on a dramatic level, rather than solely through the beauty of their language.

In the context of contemporary theater, Johnson's quote invites a critical examination of the current landscape of verse plays. It prompts playwrights, directors, and audiences to consider the balance between poetry and theatricality in these works. Should verse plays strive to achieve a harmonious integration of poetic language and dramatic storytelling, or should one aspect take precedence over the other?

Furthermore, Johnson's statement raises questions about the reception and evaluation of verse plays within the theatrical community. Are contemporary verse plays being judged primarily on their poetic merits, or are they being assessed for their effectiveness as dramatic works? This contemplation of the criteria for assessing verse plays is crucial in shaping the future of this genre and its place within the broader theatrical canon.

In conclusion, Denis Johnson's quote serves as a thought-provoking commentary on the state of modern verse plays and the interplay between poetry and drama. By asserting the importance of putting the play first, he challenges playwrights and audiences to reconsider the balance between poetic expression and dramatic storytelling in this genre. This quote encourages a deeper exploration of the purpose and potential of verse plays, prompting a reevaluation of their place within contemporary theater.