The drama’s laws the drama’s patrons give. For we that live to please must please to live.
What did Samuel Johnson mean by:

The drama’s laws the drama’s patrons give. For we that live to please must please to live.

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This insightful quote delves into the symbiotic relationship between creators and their audience, especially in the context of dramatic arts, but it can be extended to any form of creative or performance art. It suggests that the rules governing a drama are not solely determined by the playwrights or actors, but rather by those who patronize these performances – essentially, the audience.

The second line further emphasizes this idea; it posits that those who live to entertain or please others must do so in a manner that is pleasing to their audience if they wish to continue living (or thriving) in their chosen profession. In essence, it’s about understanding and catering to one’s audience.

In today’s world, this concept applies more than ever due largely to social media and online platforms where content creators directly interact with their audiences. The ‘drama’ could represent YouTube videos, Instagram posts or even Tweets – any form of content creation really. The ‘patrons’ are followers/subscribers who react and interact with what they see and hear.

Content creators often have to adapt their style according to what resonates with their followers as they provide immediate feedback through likes, comments and shares. A creator might start off with one kind of content only for them shift gears based on viewer response.

In terms of personal development too this idea holds relevance as it underscores adaptability – an essential trait for success in any field today. Whether you’re a public speaker needing to modify your delivery based on crowd reaction or an entrepreneur adjusting your product/service based on customer feedback – you need be open-minded enough accept criticism/feedback from your ‘audience’ (however you define them), learn from it and make necessary changes.

So while Johnson’s quote was specifically about drama/theatre when he wrote it centuries ago – its wisdom is universal & timeless – applicable even now across various domains.

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