“In the arts of the theatre, we must have a language that is natural and yet lifted above ordinary speech.” Seeking a dramatic language that remains vivid without losing everyday vitality · Preface to The Playboy of the Western World Art Poetry Truth
“A play that has the same atmosphere as a poem, and yet is full of life and movement, is what I am trying to write.” Describing his aim to unite poetic atmosphere with energetic action · Preface to The Playboy of the Western World Art Music Poetry
“The poetry of the drama is not in the words, but in the situation.” Locating dramatic poetry in lived circumstances rather than ornament alone · Preface to The Playboy of the Western World Art Poetry Truth
“In a good play every speech should be as fully flavoured as a nut or apple, and there should be no writing that is not a pleasure to the ear.” Emphasising the sensual and musical quality of dramatic language · Preface to The Playboy of the Western World Art Beauty Music
“On the stage one must have reality, and one must have joy.” Defending a theatre that joins truthful observation with delight · Preface to The Playboy of the Western World Art Joy Truth
