Wit: A Play by Margaret Edson Summary and Reviews
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Book Reviews of Wit: A Play
Book Review: Brilliantly moving and touching. A must read.
Summary: 5 Stars
Margaret Edson brings to this book, and to the stage, a moving and brilliant play. The irony and beauty of this work may be lost on those who read only the words and do not delve deeper into her many underlying themes. Reading Donne will never be the same for this reader.This work transcends may academic bariers. It is a must read for students of philosophy, English, sociology and psychology as it contains so many elements of the human condition. Medical schools would also do well to make this required reading.
Book Review: Coming to terms with our mortality
Summary: 5 Stars
Dr. Vivian Bearing, a professor of 17th century poetry, is diagnosed with terminal ovarian cancer. The play takes place over the course of Vivian's experimental treatment during the last eight months of her life. The play is Vivian's story, told to the audience from her point of view, as she comes to terms with her mortality and the life choices she has made. A renowned researcher, her entire life devoted to the study of the poetry of John Donne, Vivian finally discovers her own humanity when she becomes the "object" of study while undergoing experimental treatment for her disease at the University hospital. This is a beautifully written play that has the potential to touch audiences at a very deep level.Book Review: Dealing with Cancer
Summary: 4 Stars
I intially looked at this play to see the references to John Donne's poetry, but was swept away by the tight drama of the story of an indomitable English professor courageously coping with cancer - with a dash of w;t. The meaning of the Semi-colon is explained in the play, it becomes a symbol of intellectual rigour, and an attutude of professionalism, either in coping with cancer, or studying English literature. What is also insightful is the portrayal of everyone else around her, how they help, or do not help, either through ignorance and insensitivity, or self-interest. I think for people in academic situations, or in any profession where status is so important, it will show that perhaps admiration is not better compassion when you are on the death bed.
Book Review: Eloquent and sharp--and yes, witty.
Summary: 5 Stars
It's hard to believe that this eloquent and sharp--and yes, witty--play is the first major work by Margaret Edson. I haven't had the opportunity to see it performed, but it must be a captivating couple of hours. The part of Professor Vivian Bearing (a fine name) is rendered perfectly: a woman whose transformation from pedant to human being is thoroughly convincing--and a more than a little inspirational. Here's hoping that Margaret Edson is teaching some versions of the lessons of this play to her kindergarten students in Atlanta. And here's hoping, too, that she's at work on a new play!Book Review: Everyone who treats or knows a victim of cancer: READ THIS!
Summary: 5 Stars
A short play, following the life of an acclaimed scholar of John Dunn's poetry, from the day wshe is diagnosed with cancer, through chemotherapy, until the day she dies.One aspect of this play, which recently received much press, is the inhumanity of the medical system. And this certainly comes accross loud and clear. Every doctor who treats (or researches) terminal patients should read (or see) this play.
But equally important is the patient's struggle to retain control over her life. Her powerful intellect refuses to be cowed by the medical machine, and despite her pain and agony, her will triumphs in the end--despite her death.
A great one night read...and if you happen to be in Chicago, check out the Goodman Theatre production.