Where there is an unknowable there is a promise

Where there is an unknowable there is a promise

Thornton Wilder, the renowned American playwright and novelist, is known for his profound exploration of the human experience and the mysteries of life. In his works, Wilder often delves into the unknowable aspects of existence, such as the nature of time, the inevitability of death, and the complexities of human relationships. Through his exploration of these themes, Wilder suggests that where there is an unknowable, there is a promise of deeper understanding, growth, and meaning.

One of Wilder's most famous works, "Our Town," exemplifies this idea of the unknowable leading to a promise of greater insight. Set in the fictional town of Grover's Corners, the play follows the lives of the Gibbs and Webb families as they navigate the joys and sorrows of everyday life. Through the character of the Stage Manager, Wilder breaks the fourth wall and addresses the audience directly, guiding them through the story and offering reflections on the passage of time and the inevitability of death.