Title: The Iceman Cometh
Author: Eugene O’Neill
First published January 1, 1946
236 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780300117431 (ISBN10: 0300117434)
Rating: 3.9
Overview
The Iceman Cometh, written by Eugene O’Neill, is a masterpiece that has stood the test of time. Despite receiving mixed reviews upon its initial release, this play has gained immense popularity over the years.
The story revolves around a group of alcoholics who are constantly discussing their dreams but never taking action to achieve them. Enter Hickey, the traveling salesman who is determined to shatter their illusions and force them to confront reality.
This dark and thought-provoking play has been brought to life by renowned actors such as Kevin Spacey and James Earl Jones. Delve deep into the minds of these fascinating characters and witness the power of O’Neill’s writing in The Iceman Cometh.
About the Author
Eugene Gladstone O’Neill, an American playwright, was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1936. His works were celebrated for their emotional depth, honesty, and powerful impact, as he presented a unique concept of tragedy.
O’Neill was a pioneer of dramatic realism in American drama, following in the footsteps of Anton Chekhov, Henrik Ibsen, and August Strindberg. He was the first to incorporate genuine American vernacular into his writings.
O’Neill’s plays revolve around characters from the fringes of society who engage in depraved behavior. They struggle to maintain their aspirations and hope but eventually succumb to disillusionment and despair.
While he has only written one comedy, all of his other plays are characterized by tragedy and a sense of personal pessimism.
Editoral Review
Eugene O’Neill’s “The Iceman Cometh” is a masterpiece of American literature that has stood the test of time since it was first published in 1946. With its weighty themes and complex characters, this play is a must-read for anyone looking to understand the human condition and the societal issues that plagued America in the early 20th century.
O’Neill, a Nobel Prize-winning playwright, is known for his insightful and raw portrayals of the human psyche, and “The Iceman Cometh” is no exception. Set in a rundown bar in New York City, the play follows a group of alcoholics who are visited by a salesman named Hickey.
Over the course of the play, Hickey’s motives and intentions are slowly revealed as the other characters grapple with their own demons and their bleak outlook on life. At its core, this play is about the search for redemption and the struggle to find meaning in life.
The characters are complex and multifaceted, with each representing a different facet of the human experience. The play explores themes of disillusionment, despair, and the pervasive feeling of hopelessness that often accompanies addiction.
O’Neill’s writing is masterful, with a poetic quality that elevates the play beyond its gritty subject matter. The characters’ dialogue is realistic and moving, with each line adding depth to their personalities and motivations.
The pacing is deliberate and slow, which may not be to everyone’s taste, but it allows the audience to fully immerse themselves in the world of the play. One of the strengths of “The Iceman Cometh” is its historical and cultural significance.
O’Neill wrote the play during the height of the Great Depression, and its portrayal of shattered dreams and lost hope struck a chord with audiences. Today, the play is still relevant, as addiction and mental health continue to be major issues facing America.
Despite its strengths, “The Iceman Cometh” is not without flaws. The play can be overwhelming at times, with its heavy themes and lengthy runtime.
Some may also find the characters difficult to connect with, as their flaws and hardships are often presented in a harsh light. Overall, “The Iceman Cometh” is a must-read for fans of American literature and theatre.
Its timeless themes and masterful writing make it a work that will continue to resonate with audiences for generations to come. The Washington Post gives it its highest recommendation and a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.
