"I don't intend to simply go away and write my plays and be a good boy. I intend to remain an independent and political intelligence in my own right"
- Harold Pinter
About this Quote
Harold Pinter was a British playwright renowned for his distinctive dialogue and themes of existentialism and social oppression. In this quote, Pinter asserts his decision not just to continue his work as a playwright however to stay actively taken part in the political landscape, recommending a double dedication to both his artistic undertakings and his function as a public intellectual.
To start with, Pinter refutes the concept of merely disappearing into the world of art for art's sake-- he turns down becoming a "excellent kid," a term suggesting passive conformity to social expectations or the facility's needs. Rather, he emphasizes the value of keeping his self-reliance and the freedom to speak up, essential qualities for any artist who looks for to challenge the status quo and provoke thought and dialogue through their work.
By declaring his intent to be an "independent and political intelligence," Pinter underscores his commitment to using his voice and platform to resolve political concerns and oppressions. This stance shows his belief that art can not be disentangled from politics. Pinter typically used his plays to review class structure and expose the underlying stress and absurdities in human interactions-- this same interrogation of power and authority encompasses his real-world engagement.
The expression "in my own right" signals Pinter's insistence on authority and autonomy over his voice and viewpoints. This autonomy is important for affecting society and effecting change. Even within the political sphere, where groupthink and dogma can prevail, Pinter stresses the significance of preserving a distinct and personal perspective, free from co-optation.
In essence, this quote encapsulates Pinter's vision of the artist as both a creator and a commentator-- responsible not only for producing art but for contributing truthfully and seriously to the world around them. His words serve as a powerful tip of the transformative function artists can play in shaping social dialogues and provoking significant reflection and change.