New-York tribune. [volume] (New York [N.Y.]) 1866-1924, 1905-09-14
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
THE DECADENT DRAMA
Primary Cause for the Lamentable Decline
Found in Nature of Criticism.
le Editor of The Tribune.

To the Editor of The Tribune
Sir: Apropos of Mr.. Winters mastery essay on
THE Decadent Drama in The Tribune of Septen-
Der Z, it may he of interest TO consider the view
of the writer primary for the drama lam
entable decline art of distinction, well
to contemplate. with due regret. the equal ret
repression of the closely allied profession OF dra-
matte criticism. upon which latter function it
must appear the drama should depend for its prop
er development and the curbing of evil tendencies
In regard to the theatre, the writers who formu-
late the decisions of the public and OF the amuse-
ment purveyors also are, in the main, strangely
unlearned fppant, biased inexperienced in the
qualifications of the worthy calling. over or under
discriminating and generally improper or incompe-
tent persons to review seriously an art that is
so vital delicate and complex and that is or should
be among the most important of educational ad-
iuncts.
While this is exceedingly forceful language in
which to describe the numerous fraternity impli-
Gated it will Of be understood that TO this
to other rules notable exceptions may be taken
To subStantiate the claim, however it is only nee
essary to select at random a number of the
temporary reviews Of plays which appear in the
columns Of our journals.
Where there should be trained and intellectual
consideration more often may be found misconcep-
ton even of the rudiments of review and the
play IS treated to say the least in trite rather
feeble colIoquialisms. vicious irrelevant person
aIities and showing marks of entire lack of sym
subject
This degree of medioCrty to call it by chart
table name would not for one moment be coun-
tenanced by the readers of numerous puhlica-
tons if shown in the reviews of books. music or
painting Why it should have been allowed to
occur and still be permitted in comments upon the
drama, affecting they do really fine art and
involving the advancement of the public good. the
very livelihood of the better representatives of
great and numerous profession, not to speak of a
peCuniaTy investment exceeding that of similar
industry is assuredly q mystery TOO deep for I'M
Outstanding.
Through this mediocrity the thoughtful. drama
loving public has been and is continually betogged
the character of productions, its interest in
the theatre has been largely abated standards have
been allowed to relax genuine art has been overt
ed from its proper channels entirely over
looked worthless offerings have prospered excel
lence has gone unrewarded, and result of
all these conditions the drama has steadily dete,
rorated in efficiency. not only as delightful ana
meritorious diversion. but in its still more I'M
portant position as a factor toward culture
Much of this is due to the fact that reviews or
the drama are regarded by newspaper publishers
news" and CriticiSms-often to the bene-
fit Of their advertising interests. An intimate as
atrical in several capacities prompts both the views
and writing Of this communication During thus
time I have seen artists. managers and drama
lists hopes bghted through the faults nave COM
many in these pursuits totally lacking in the real
essentials for them, through what can be drecuy
traced to misguided popular taste.
Until 1t is generally realized that a dranatlc
gentleman historian and writer of power,
Judgment, conviction and skill, as well as above
ali possessing genuine talent for his duties ana
in full accord with and with real devotion to the
cause of the theatre. the drama VIII commune IL, IN
its SHORTCOMINGS remain decadent, and fail Of its
legitimate scope and usefulness. -,-,,>-,
JOHN WILLIAM SCHMIDT.
Brooklyn. Sept. g 1906.