"Note on Commercial Theatre" by W.H. Auden is a thought-provoking poem that delves into the nature of commercial theatre and its impact on artistic expression. Auden offers a critical examination of the compromises that come with commercial success and raises important questions about the purpose and values of theatre in society.
The poem opens with a tone of resignation, as the speaker states, "We must love one another or die." This sets the stage for the subsequent exploration of the tension between artistic integrity and financial success. Auden suggests that commercial theatre prioritizes profit over artistic merit and that this compromises the creative freedom of artists.
The poem highlights the pressure on playwrights to conform to popular tastes and the expectations of the audience. Auden writes, "We must make the public want what we want." This illustrates the challenges of finding a balance between remaining true to one's artistic vision while also catering to the demands of the market. The poem implies that commercial success often requires sacrificing artistic ideals, which can lead to a sense of disillusionment and frustration among artists.
Auden also emphasizes the power dynamics within the theatre industry, particularly the influence of producers and investors who hold the financial power. The speaker expresses resentment toward these figures, describing them as "the great ones" who "cheat us of our due." This suggests that the commercialization of theatre undermines the autonomy of artists and their ability to control their own work.
The poem further suggests that commercial theatre perpetuates a cycle of conformity, as playwrights imitate successful formulas rather than pursuing their own unique voices. Auden laments, "We must repeat the phrases we've heard." This reflects the homogenization of theatrical productions and the suppression of creativity in favor of proven crowd-pleasers.
As the poem progresses, Auden's tone shifts from resignation to one of defiance and hope. The speaker declares, "But let us not be too downhearted." This marks a turning point in the poem, as Auden encourages artists to resist the pressures of commercialization and remain true to their artistic calling.
The poem ends with a compelling affirmation of the importance of art, even in the face of commercial challenges:
"For though we are small, we are not nothing."
This powerful statement underscores the significance of artistic expression and the enduring value of creativity, regardless of the constraints imposed by commercial forces.
In conclusion, "Note on Commercial Theatre" by W.H. Auden is a poignant exploration of the tensions between artistic integrity and commercial success in the theatre industry. Through his critical examination, Auden urges artists to resist conformity, embrace their unique voices, and prioritize artistic merit over financial gain. The poem serves as a reminder of the enduring power of art to uplift, challenge, and inspire, even amidst the challenges of commercialization.