Community Reviews

Rating(3.9 / 5.0, 100 votes)
5 stars
33(33%)
4 stars
27(27%)
3 stars
40(40%)
2 stars
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1 stars
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100 reviews
July 15,2025
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So much meaning can be found in these works, even though they are part of the absurdist theatre. It is truly amazing the way in which the emphasis is placed rather more particularly on objects than on human beings. Ionesco is really a prodigy of the absurdist theatre!

The works of the absurdist theatre, such as those by Ionesco, often seem to defy traditional logic and meaning. However, upon closer inspection, there is a depth and complexity that emerges. The focus on objects rather than human beings is a unique and fascinating aspect of this genre. It forces the audience to view the world from a different perspective and to question the significance of the things around them.

Ionesco's talent lies in his ability to create these absurd and yet thought-provoking works. His plays are filled with strange and unexpected situations that challenge our preconceived notions and make us laugh at the same time. He is truly a master of the absurdist theatre, and his works continue to inspire and influence generations of playwrights and theatregoers.

July 15,2025
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I understand the significance of Ionesco's writing all too well. His plays indeed possess a certain charm, being quite humorous in their execution and presenting thought-provoking central theses. However, I must admit that reading them can be an absolute chore.

The language he employs, while rich and evocative, can often be dense and difficult to penetrate. The convoluted plotlines and the unconventional structure of his plays require a great deal of mental effort to untangle and make sense of.

Despite the challenges, I still find myself drawn to Ionesco's work. There is something undeniably captivating about his exploration of the human condition and the absurdities of modern life. His plays force us to question our assumptions and look at the world from a different perspective.

In conclusion, while reading Ionesco's plays may not be the most enjoyable experience, it is one that is well worth the effort. His work offers valuable insights into the human psyche and the state of our society, and continues to influence and inspire playwrights and thinkers to this day.
July 15,2025
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I'm not at a stage where I can understand even half of the meaning behind the madness in these plays. It seems that the deeper I delve into them, the more confused I become. The complex characters, their convoluted actions, and the ambiguous dialogues all contribute to this sense of mystery and confusion. I find myself constantly second-guessing my interpretations, wondering if I'm missing some crucial element that would make everything click.


However, I'm also drawn to this madness. There's something about it that intrigues me, makes me want to keep exploring and trying to make sense of it all. Maybe it's the challenge of trying to understand the ununderstandable, or maybe it's the realization that there's so much more to these plays than meets the eye.


Despite my confusion, I'm determined to keep going. I believe that with time and more careful study, I'll gradually start to unlock the secrets hidden within these plays and gain a better understanding of the meaning behind the madness.

July 15,2025
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I read "The Bald Soprano" for class and, oh my gosh, it was truly an experience like no other.

The play was so silly that it left me scratching my head at times. The dialogue seemed to jump from one absurd topic to another without any clear connection.

It was also indecipherable in many ways. I found it difficult to understand the deeper meaning or the message that the playwright was trying to convey.

However, despite its silliness and lack of clarity, there was something strangely captivating about the play. Maybe it was the way the characters interacted or the unexpected twists and turns in the plot.

Overall, reading "The Bald Soprano" was a unique and challenging experience that made me think about the boundaries of traditional theater and the power of the absurd.

July 15,2025
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I truly loved this piece. It presented short and yet highly realistic aspects of relationships in today's times.

Ms & Mr Smith are a couple who, on the surface, are physically present with each other. However, they severely lack that crucial emotional attachment. This deficiency has led to a relationship that, in a sense, is rather absurd and does not conform to today's societal norms.

In today's fast-paced world, relationships often face numerous challenges. The Smiths' situation is a prime example. While they may share the same living space and engage in daily activities together, the absence of a deep emotional bond makes their relationship feel hollow.

It makes one wonder how such a disconnect can occur and what can be done to bridge the gap. Perhaps it is a matter of taking the time to truly understand each other's feelings, needs, and desires. Or maybe it requires more effort to communicate openly and honestly.

Whatever the case may be, the Smiths' relationship serves as a reminder that a successful and fulfilling relationship is not just about physical proximity but also about emotional connection.
July 15,2025
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I really enjoyed the first two installments of this collection a great deal more than the second two.

The first two had a certain charm and appeal that immediately captured my attention. The stories were engaging, the characters were well-developed, and the writing style was captivating.

On the other hand, the second two didn't quite have the same impact on me. They felt a bit lacking in some aspects, perhaps in terms of plot or character depth.

Nevertheless, I still appreciate the effort that went into creating this collection as a whole. Each piece has its own unique qualities, and it's interesting to see the different perspectives and ideas that the author has presented.

Overall, while I may have favored the first two more, I would still recommend this collection to others who are interested in exploring different types of literature.
July 15,2025
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Still as hilariously offensive as this stuff was 60 years ago, it continues to shock and amuse audiences today.

The humor is often dark and edgy, pushing the boundaries of what is considered acceptable.

But beneath the surface of the laughter lies a profound sadness.

This sadness may stem from the recognition of the flaws and inequalities in society that the humor is highlighting.

It could also be a reflection of the human condition, with all its absurdities and contradictions.

Despite its offensive nature, this type of humor has the power to make us think and question the world around us.

It forces us to confront our own prejudices and biases, and perhaps even to change our perspectives.

In the end, while it may make us uncomfortable at times, it also has the potential to bring about positive change.

So, whether we love it or hate it, we cannot deny the impact that this hilariously offensive and yet deeply sad humor has had on our culture.

July 15,2025
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A good absurd play!

It is truly a remarkable and engaging form of theater. The absurdity within it challenges our conventional understanding and perception of the world.

The characters often find themselves in the most outlandish and illogical situations, yet they navigate through them with a certain charm and naivete.

The plot may seem disjointed and lacking in a traditional narrative structure, but that is precisely what makes it so captivating.

It forces the audience to think outside the box and question the norms and values that we take for granted.

The dialogue is often filled with witty remarks, non sequiturs, and unexpected twists, keeping the viewers on the edge of their seats.

A good absurd play has the power to make us laugh, cry, and think deeply all at the same time. It is a unique and unforgettable theatrical experience that leaves a lasting impression on our minds.
July 15,2025
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Ridiculus and absurd in a good way can be a truly fascinating concept. It refers to those situations or ideas that are so outlandish and unconventional that they bring a sense of amusement and lightheartedness.


For example, a comical play with a completely crazy plot and over-the-top characters can be ridiculus and absurd in a good way. It makes us laugh and forget about our daily worries for a while.


Similarly, a piece of art that features strange and unexpected combinations of elements can also have this quality. It challenges our perception and makes us look at things from a different perspective.


In conclusion, ridiculus and absurd in a good way can add a touch of fun and excitement to our lives. It allows us to embrace the unexpected and enjoy the humor and creativity that lies within the most unlikely places.

July 15,2025
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I have only read the play "The Bald Soprano", and it was truly the weirdest thing I have ever come across in my reading. I really don't know how I exactly feel about it.

It's just so strange and out of the ordinary. The characters and their dialogues seem to lack any logical connection or meaning.

However, on the positive side, at least it is short. It doesn't take a lot of time to get through it.

But still, the overall experience of reading it left me with a sense of confusion and wonder.

I'm not sure if I would recommend it to others, as it might not be everyone's cup of tea.

Maybe it's one of those works that you either love or hate, and for me, I'm still trying to figure out where I stand.

Overall, "The Bald Soprano" is a unique and puzzling piece of literature that definitely makes you think and question the norms of traditional storytelling.
July 15,2025
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The Bald Soprano and The Chairs are both highly regarded works that deserve a 5-star rating.

The Bald Soprano is a unique and thought-provoking play that challenges traditional theatrical norms. It presents a strange and absurd world where the characters' conversations seem to have no logical connection, yet they manage to convey deep themes about human nature and communication.

The Chairs, on the other hand, is a powerful and symbolic piece. It tells the story of an old couple who prepare for a grand event but end up with an empty stage, filled only with chairs. This play explores themes such as the meaning of life, the search for significance, and the futility of human existence.

The Lesson, rated 4 stars, is also an interesting work. It delves into the relationship between a teacher and a student, exploring themes of power, control, and the limits of knowledge.

Jack or The Submission, with a 3-star rating, offers a different perspective. It may not be as highly acclaimed as the other works, but it still has its own charm and value. It might explore themes such as identity, submission, and the struggle for independence.

Overall, these plays offer a diverse range of themes and styles, each with its own unique qualities and contributions to the world of theater.
July 15,2025
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Eugene Ionesco is truly one of the most peculiar figures in the entire realm of literature.

For me, he is not overly difficult to understand, yet he is simultaneously very clear and somewhat cloudy. His plays give the impression that they should possess profound meaning and significance. There are indeed moments when he reveals the meaning to you, but for the most part, you are left to fathom it all on your own.

In an interview, he stated that the best theatre he had ever witnessed was a puppet show during his childhood, and it seems that he has always desired to incorporate that into his works. This makes sense to me because the characters in his plays appear somewhat mechanical, as if they are on strings.

For example, he will have his characters repeat lines to the extent of being burned-out clichés, over and over again, in a way that makes the story feel as if it is stuck, like a stalled car engine. Nevertheless, these repetitions still feel integral and vital.

Out of the four plays in this book, my favorite is The Lesson, which I saw live a long time ago and which had an indelible impact on me. The reason it stands out is due to the macabre progression of the piece and its brilliant and unique concepts. Take, for instance, the total doctorate. Philology leads to calamity. A student who can only add and not subtract. Again, one can wonder about the significance of that last point.

The Submission is another outstanding play. I curiously identify with it. The enforced value of marriage, the mole that turns out to be cancer, not liking boiled potatoes...

The Chairs, I liked less initially, but after re-reading it recently, I also came to enjoy it.
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