Meaning: This quote by Norman Lear, a highly influential television producer, reflects the importance of ratings and the impact they have on the creative process in the television industry. Lear is known for creating groundbreaking and socially relevant sitcoms such as "All in the Family," "Maude," and "The Jeffersons," which tackled important issues of the time such as racism, sexism, and class struggle. Lear's approach to television production was revolutionary, and his quote sheds light on the delicate balance between creative integrity and commercial success in the entertainment industry.

Lear's statement begins with the acknowledgment of the power of ratings. In the television industry, ratings are a crucial measure of a show's success. They indicate the number of viewers and are used to determine a program's popularity and profitability. High ratings often lead to increased advertising revenue and the potential for a show to continue airing. Lear's acknowledgment of the importance of ratings sets the stage for the subsequent discussion of their influence on creative decision-making.

The quote suggests that while there may be disagreements and conflicts in the creative process, as long as a show maintains strong ratings and the creators remain reasonable, they have the leverage to defend their creative vision. Lear implies that the success of a show, as evidenced by high ratings, provides a degree of protection and validation for the decisions made by the creative team. This protection allows the creators to defend their choices and maintain a level of creative control over the content of the show.

Lear's emphasis on the importance of staying strong and reasonable in the face of potential disagreements highlights the balancing act that creators must perform. While maintaining creative integrity is crucial, the reality of the television industry demands a level of pragmatism. By emphasizing the need to be reasonable, Lear acknowledges the need to navigate the complex dynamics of creative collaboration, business interests, and audience reception.

The quote also touches on the idea of "fighting" in the context of television production. Lear suggests that disagreements and conflicts are inevitable in the creative process, but he asserts that as long as those involved in the production remain reasonable and the ratings are strong, the battles fought are justified. This implies that creative battles are an inherent part of the industry, but ultimately, the success of a show, as indicated by its ratings, can validate the decisions made during those battles.

In essence, Lear's quote encapsulates the intricate relationship between creative autonomy and commercial viability in the television industry. It underscores the reality that, regardless of the artistic vision, the success of a television show is often contingent on its ability to attract and retain a sizable audience. This delicate balance requires creators to navigate the demands of commercial success while striving to maintain the integrity of their artistic vision.

Norman Lear's career and the impact of his work on the television industry further contextualize the significance of this quote. As a pioneer of socially conscious television, Lear demonstrated that it is possible to address important and controversial issues within the constraints of the medium while still achieving commercial success. His ability to push boundaries while navigating the realities of the industry serves as a testament to the complexities of producing meaningful and impactful television content.

In conclusion, Norman Lear's quote reflects the intricate dance between creative autonomy and commercial success in the television industry. It underscores the significance of ratings and the impact they have on the decision-making process within the creative realm. Lear's words serve as a reminder of the challenges and compromises that creators often face as they strive to balance artistic vision with the demands of a commercial industry.