Meaning: The quote "Shaw is like a train. One just speaks the words and sits in one's place. But Shakespeare is like bathing in the sea - one swims where one wants" is a comparison made by Vivien Leigh, a renowned actress of the 20th century. In this quote, Leigh draws a distinction between the works of two prominent playwrights, George Bernard Shaw and William Shakespeare, using vivid imagery to convey the difference in experience when performing their works.

When Leigh likens Shaw to a train, she is suggesting that his plays are structured and methodical, much like a train following a set path. In Shaw's works, the dialogue and actions of the characters are meticulously crafted, and the actors must adhere closely to the script's directions and intentions. There is a sense of precision and control in the delivery of Shaw's lines, much like the way a train operates on its tracks, moving forward with a predetermined destination.

On the other hand, Leigh's comparison of Shakespeare to "bathing in the sea" evokes a sense of freedom and expansiveness. In Shakespeare's plays, the language is rich and multifaceted, allowing for a range of interpretations and emotional depths. Actors have the opportunity to explore and express their characters in various ways, much like swimming in the sea where one can move in any direction and immerse oneself fully in the experience. There is a fluidity and openness to the performance of Shakespeare's works that contrasts with the structured nature of Shaw's plays.

It is important to note that Leigh's comparison is not a critique of either playwright but rather an expression of the different challenges and rewards that come with performing their works. Shaw's plays, known for their wit and social commentary, demand a high level of precision and intellectual engagement from the actors. The dialogue is often rapid and filled with complex ideas, requiring actors to deliver the lines with clarity and nuance while staying true to Shaw's intended themes.

On the other hand, Shakespeare's plays, with their timeless themes and intricate characters, offer actors a broader canvas for interpretation and emotional exploration. The language is poetic and multi-layered, allowing for a more organic and personal connection to the material. Actors have the freedom to infuse their performances with their own creativity and insights, making each production of a Shakespearean play a unique and deeply personal experience.

In conclusion, Vivien Leigh's comparison of Shaw and Shakespeare illuminates the distinct qualities of these two playwrights' works and the different approaches required for performing them. While Shaw's plays demand precision and intellectual rigor, Shakespeare's works offer a more open and immersive experience for actors. Both playwrights have made enduring contributions to the world of theater, and their works continue to inspire and challenge actors and audiences alike.