For the most part, I think that this play does represents a well-made play structure. The plot revolves around the "secret" that Mary makes up about Karen and Martha, along with the audience later learning Martha's secret. There is a long, chunky exposition. There are quick timing of entrances and exits and all that other good stuff. However, the things that depart from this structure are small but still make a difference.
For example, I don't feel like there was a logical resolution for everyone. Maybe Karen feels that she is going to be okay and have a happy ending down the line, after grieving for Martha; Mrs. Tilford says that she can't send Mary away and will endure Mary's bad behavior; and Martha has just ended it all. But Joe is left to staying in the dark about what the real truth is and hearing it from Mrs. Tilford.
Also, I don't think there is a just-in-time revelation. After Martha reveals her true feelings to Karen, she feels as if it is over for her now, and no one can end this situation but herself. Martha - "In some way I've ruined your life. I've ruined my own...I can't stay with you anymore, darling." Mrs. Tilford comes in just after the right time to redeem herself, and maybe Martha would have felt like she had a choice to stay then.
I do think that this is a play that could be done today. It would show the seriousness of the matter and the affects it could have on people when not handled with consideration and care to people's personal feeling and thoughts on the subject.
I thought what you said about it being produced today was interesting. It is not necessarily the way that I would have thought of it, but I think that there is definitely validity in producing this show in a way that highlights the affects of homophobia.
ReplyDeleteMy opinion differs from yours on the possibility of a production today. I think that the play displays a time in history and the general thought process of people in that era. Now, if you are running and never look back, how do you know how far you've come? The reason you look back is important. Historical context, contrast, analysis is something I deem important in the progression humans. Not to say, that if you look back for the wrong reason or wrong time "while running", you won't trip or run into a tree.
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