Meaning: This quote by Don Knotts, an American actor best known for his role as Deputy Sheriff Barney Fife on "The Andy Griffith Show," speaks to the evolution of storytelling in television. Knotts is reflecting on the early days of the popular television show and how the inclusion of seemingly inconsequential, everyday conversations between characters became a significant aspect of the program's appeal.

In the early days of television, shows often followed a rigid format, with a focus on progressing the plot and resolving conflicts within each episode. However, as "The Andy Griffith Show" developed, Knotts and the other actors began to incorporate small, seemingly insignificant moments into their scenes. These moments allowed the characters to engage in conversations that were unrelated to the main storyline, providing glimpses into their personalities, relationships, and the everyday life of the fictional town of Mayberry.

Knotts mentions that initially, there was resistance to this approach. The prevailing mindset at the time was that every moment on screen should serve the purpose of advancing the plot or developing the characters in a direct, plot-related manner. However, as the show continued, the inclusion of these "little scenes" became a distinctive feature of "The Andy Griffith Show" and contributed to its enduring popularity.

The significance of this quote lies in the recognition that the inclusion of seemingly mundane interactions between characters can add depth and authenticity to a television show. By allowing the characters to engage in conversations and activities that are not directly tied to the central storyline, the audience gains a more comprehensive understanding of the characters' lives and personalities. This, in turn, fosters a deeper connection between the viewers and the fictional world portrayed on screen.

Furthermore, Knotts's assertion that "we were the first to do that" highlights the pioneering nature of "The Andy Griffith Show" in incorporating these elements into television storytelling. While it may be difficult to definitively attribute the introduction of this technique to a single show, Knotts's statement underscores the innovative approach taken by the creators and cast of "The Andy Griffith Show" in crafting a more nuanced and realistic portrayal of small-town life.

In contemporary television, the influence of "The Andy Griffith Show" can be seen in the widespread use of similar storytelling techniques. Many successful shows now incorporate moments of everyday conversation and interaction between characters, recognizing the value of these scenes in building a rich and immersive fictional world. This approach has become a fundamental aspect of character development and audience engagement in television storytelling.

In conclusion, Don Knotts's reflection on the evolution of storytelling in television, particularly in relation to the inclusion of "little scenes" unrelated to the main plot, sheds light on the innovative approach taken by "The Andy Griffith Show." By incorporating these seemingly inconsequential moments, the show added depth and authenticity to its portrayal of small-town life, setting a precedent for character-driven storytelling in television. Knotts's recognition of this pioneering aspect of the show underscores its enduring influence on the medium, as similar techniques continue to be utilized in contemporary television storytelling.