We live in what is, but we find 1,000 ways not to face it. Great theatre strengthens our faculty to face it

We live in what is, but we find 1,000 ways not to face it. Great theatre strengthens our faculty to face it

Thornton Wilder, a renowned American playwright and novelist, once said, “We live in what is, but we find 1,000 ways not to face it. Great theatre strengthens our faculty to face it.” This quote encapsulates the essence of Wilder’s work, which often delves into the complexities of human existence and the ways in which individuals navigate the challenges of life.

Wilder’s most famous play, “Our Town,” is a poignant exploration of the passage of time and the inevitability of death. Set in the fictional town of Grover’s Corners, the play follows the lives of the Gibbs and Webb families as they go about their daily routines and face the trials and tribulations of life. Through the character of the Stage Manager, Wilder breaks the fourth wall and invites the audience to reflect on the fleeting nature of life and the importance of living in the present moment.

In “Our Town,” Wilder presents a stark portrayal of the human condition, highlighting the ways in which individuals often fail to fully engage with the world around them. The characters in the play are so consumed by their own concerns and preoccupations that they fail to appreciate the beauty and wonder of everyday life. It is only through the lens of the Stage Manager, who serves as a kind of omniscient narrator, that the characters and the audience are able to see the world in all its complexity and richness.

Through his work, Wilder challenges us to confront the harsh realities of existence and to find meaning and purpose in the face of adversity. He reminds us that life is fleeting and that we must make the most of the time we have. Great theatre, according to Wilder, has the power to strengthen our capacity to face the challenges of life head-on and to find solace and inspiration in the face of adversity.