Title: ‘night, Mother
Author: Marsha Norman
First published January 1, 1983
67 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780822208211 (ISBN10: 0822208210)
Rating: 3.89
Overview
In ‘night, Mother, Marsha Norman delivers a powerful and raw exploration of family dynamics and mental health. This award-winning play follows a mother and daughter as they navigate a life-changing conversation.
With its unflinching portrayal of love, loss, and the human condition, ‘night, Mother has earned numerous accolades, including the Pulitzer Prize, Tony nominations, and the Susan Smith Blackburn Prize. A true masterpiece of modern theater, this play will leave you moved and forever changed.
About the Author
Marsha Norman is a multi-talented American writer who has excelled in various forms of writing. In 1983, she was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Drama for her play ‘night, Mother.
Apart from that, she has also lent her skills to the world of Broadway musicals. Her contribution to the book and lyrics of The Secret Garden earned her a Tony Award and the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Book of a Musical.
She also wrote the libretto for the musical The Color Purple and The Red Shoes.
Editoral Review
“Night, Mother” by Marsha Norman is an emotionally charged modern tragedy about a mother and daughter dealing with mental illness, loneliness, and the meaning of life. First published in 1983, the play has won Pulitzer Prize for Drama and has been widely produced and critically acclaimed for its devastatingly honest portrayal of human suffering.
Marsha Norman is an American playwright, novelist, and screenwriter known for her insightful exploration of family dynamics, grief, and social injustice. Her other notable works include “Getting Out,” “Third and Oak: The Laundromat,” and “The Secret Garden.” Her writing style is characterized by spare, naturalistic dialogue, vivid imagery, and a nuanced understanding of the human psyche.
“Night, Mother” is a two-act play set entirely in the living room of Jessie, a middle-aged woman who has decided to commit suicide. Her mother, Thelma, tries to persuade her to change her mind, but Jessie is determined to end her pain and find peace.
The play takes place in real-time, with the characters revealing their deepest fears, regrets, and secrets as they face the ultimate challenge of love and loss. The plot of “Night, Mother” unfolds slowly, with the tension building up gradually as we learn more about the characters’ past and present struggles.
Jessie and Thelma are well-developed, complex characters who represent different generations, perspectives, and values. Jessie is a rebellious, creative woman who feels trapped in her life and wants to escape the pain of her failed relationships, chronic illness, and despair.
Thelma is a traditional, religious woman who cannot accept the fact that her daughter wants to die and blames herself for her unhappiness. The themes of “Night, Mother” include suicide, mental illness, family dynamics, gender roles, and existentialism.
Norman explores the psychological and social factors that contribute to suicide, such as depression, isolation, trauma, and hopelessness. She also challenges the traditional gender roles and family expectations that limit women’s options and autonomy.
Moreover, she raises profound questions about the nature of life, death, and meaning, inviting the audience to reflect on their own values and beliefs. Norman’s writing is powerful, raw, and poetic.
She captures the essence of human emotions with simple yet profound words, creating a sense of intimacy and immediacy. Her dialogue is realistic and natural, with a touch of humor and irony that lightens the mood and adds depth to the characters.
Moreover, she uses stage directions, lighting, and sound effects to enhance the atmosphere and mood of the play, immersing the audience in the characters’ world. The strengths of “Night, Mother” are its authenticity, empathy, and relevance.
The play is based on real-life experiences and reflects the social and cultural context of its time, while also addressing universal issues that still resonate today. It is a powerful reminder of the fragility and complexity of human life, and a testament to the resilience and courage of those who face adversity.
The weaknesses of “Night, Mother” are its limited scope and dramatic intensity. The play focuses solely on the relationship between Jessie and Thelma, leaving little room for other characters or themes.
Moreover, the play can be emotionally overwhelming and intense, especially for those who have experienced suicide or mental illness. Overall, “Night, Mother” is a masterpiece of modern drama that deserves to be read and seen by anyone who cares about the human condition.
It is a profound and moving work of art that challenges our assumptions, stimulates our imagination, and encourages our empathy. I highly recommend this play to anyone who wants to experience the power of theater at its best.
Rating: 4.5/5.0
