Community Reviews

Rating(4 / 5.0, 100 votes)
5 stars
34(34%)
4 stars
36(36%)
3 stars
30(30%)
2 stars
0(0%)
1 stars
0(0%)
100 reviews
July 15,2025
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Fugard accomplishes an extraordinary feat. He not only crafts a highly convincing domestic drama but also masterfully situates it within the political milieu of the era in which he penned it.

His use of symbolism, though understated, holds remarkable power. Compelling events like the kite flying scene are justifiably renowned. They are significant not only for their metaphysical importance but also for the simplicity with which they convey the human drama.

The play can be oblique at times, yet this only adds to its power. By focusing the audience or readers' perception on the minute matters and affairs of the characters, it creates a comprehensive whole.

The dialogue is brisk and natural, allowing for lenient interpretation while still maintaining its essential meaning. Despite a variety of performances, the characters, regardless of different interpretations, remain ostensibly the same due to the meanings being conveyed.

This is undoubtedly one of the iconic plays of South Africa, and rightfully so. It was adapted into a movie starring Freddie Highmore, so even if one is not fortunate enough to attend a live performance, it is still accessible for viewing.
July 15,2025
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This is my first five-star play, and truly, I wish I could bestow upon it even more praise.

I was completely enthralled throughout the entire duration of this play. So much so that I didn't even want it to come to an end!

Now, I have an intense desire to witness it in person, as a genuine live play.

The playwright, Athol Fugard, unfortunately passed away on March 8. Reading such a raw and honest retelling of his most shameful moment made me feel a deep connection to him.

After listening to an interview with him conducted by NPR, my admiration for him has only grown.

At one point, he said that people have entered this play with racist mindsets but have come out with their hearts transformed.

Just as you can't fly kites on rainy days and you can't engage in a game of marbles without experiencing collisions, this play seems to have its own set of challenges and revelations.

"Little Man (You've Had a Busy Day)" by Sarah Vaughn adds an interesting layer to this overall experience.
July 15,2025
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Q2: All the world's a stage: 2. Read a play that has been written in your lifetime.

In this powerful excerpt, we witness a moment of intense emotional turmoil. The speaker, clearly deeply affected, addresses "Master Harold." They express their profound sense of degradation, stating that what has been done has made them feel dirtier than ever before. The question of how to wash off the filth, both of "yours and your father's," lingers in the air, emphasizing the weight of the situation. But it's not just about the immediate sense of uncleanliness. The speaker also reveals a sense of personal failure. A long time ago, they had made a promise to themselves to attempt something, yet in this moment, "Master Harold" has shown them that they have fallen short. This excerpt highlights the complex dynamics of power, race, and personal responsibility, leaving the reader with much to ponder about the human condition and the consequences of our actions.

July 15,2025
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The National Theatre's version truly had a profound impact on me.

As I watched the performance unfold on the stage, I was completely immersed in the story and the emotions of the characters.

The actors'精湛的演技and the director's brilliant vision brought the play to life in a way that I had never experienced before.

The set designs and lighting added to the overall atmosphere, making it feel as if I was actually a part of the story.

By the end of the performance, I was in tears, overcome with the beauty and power of the production.

It was a truly unforgettable experience that will stay with me for a long time.
July 15,2025
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What is art? What is life? But basically, I suppose it’s... the giving of meaning to matter... it’s the giving of form to the formless.

This profound statement makes me reflect deeply on the nature of both art and life. It seems that art has the power to bring significance to the ordinary and create order out of chaos.

The reason I found myself tearing up at the end is because of the conflict between the childish boys and the figures they have made into their fathers, whether they realize it or not. This kind of conflict always触动 my heart.

Additionally, the great racial commentary on South African apartheid presented in this work is truly eye-opening. It shows the harsh reality and injustice of that time.

Moreover, it broke my heart when Sam kept pursuing Hally to prevent him from being upset, regardless of whether it stemmed from a place of forced servitude or not. Sam's actions体现了 his kindness and loyalty, even in a difficult situation.

Overall, this piece has had a powerful impact on me, making me think about art, life, and the complex relationships between people.
July 15,2025
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This was a play that could be read quickly and easily. It held a certain level of interest, yet it failed to leave a profound and lasting impression on me.


The statement "Anybody who thinks there's nothing wrong with this world needs to have his head examined" really caught my attention. It highlights the reality that just when we think everything is going smoothly, inevitably, someone or something will emerge and ruin it all. This could indeed be considered a fundamental law of the Universe, perhaps the principle of perpetual disappointment.


The idea that if there is a God who created this world, He should scrap it and start anew is quite a bold one. It makes us question the state of the world and the role of a higher power. While this play may not have had a long-lasting impact on me, it did manage to spark some interesting thoughts and discussions.

July 15,2025
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I read this play in high school and recently re-read it for a book club.

As I delved into the story once again, many of the details and emotions came flooding back to me.

The play is truly a masterpiece, filled with complex characters, intense conflicts, and thought-provoking themes.

It has the power to engage readers on multiple levels and spark deep and meaningful discussions.

During the book club meeting, I'm sure we'll have a lively exchange of ideas as we explore the various aspects of the play.

We'll discuss the characters' motivations, the significance of the events that unfold, and the overall message that the author is trying to convey.

This play is not only a great work of literature but also a valuable tool for promoting critical thinking and understanding.

I'm looking forward to sharing my thoughts and hearing the perspectives of others in the book club.

It's going to be a fascinating and enlightening experience.
July 15,2025
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I first read Master Harold…and the Boys in college under the guidance of an amazing drama professor.

To be honest, I can't say that I love the play. Love might not be the most appropriate word here. However, every time I pick it up and read it, I find myself being irresistibly drawn to it.

Sam and Willie are waiters in St. George’s Park Tea Room. They are busily practicing their dance moves for an upcoming ballroom dancing competition. Meanwhile, Hally, the owner's son, comes to the tea room after school and engages in discussions with Sam on various topics such as philosophy, education, and men of magnitude.

During all this, Hally's mom calls to tell him that she is bringing his dad home from the hospital. His dad is not only crippled but also an alcoholic, and it is later revealed that he is a racist. This isn't entirely surprising considering the play is set in South Africa in the 1950s. The phone calls from his mom create friction between Hally and Sam.

The play is both insightful and painful. The ending is particularly powerful and leaves the reader with a broken heart. The dancing metaphor for the world is beautifully written and stands out as a remarkable section.

Some reviewers have felt that it was a struggle to get through or that the racism depicted was too intense and uncomfortable. But I don't think it was a slog at all. And isn't any work that delves into racism and its consequences going to be uncomfortable? I would highly recommend reading this play.

It offers a profound exploration of complex themes and relationships that are sure to leave a lasting impact on the reader.
July 15,2025
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This play, which delves into power relations, father figures, and South Africa in 1950, was unexpectedly charming.

The metaphors employed were rich and vivid, painting a detailed picture in the minds of the audience. The characters were fully developed, each with their own unique traits and motives.

The language used was forceful and impactful, adding depth and authenticity to the story. It was a highly appropriate play to be performed in 1982, as it addressed relevant social and political issues of that time.

Even today, it retains its value, serving as a reminder of the past and a source of inspiration for future generations.

Overall, this play is a remarkable piece of art that combines engaging storytelling with powerful themes and a strong sense of historical context.
July 15,2025
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I am truly amazed by the playwright's remarkable ability to introduce such an array of complex ideas within the span of less than 60 pages. The themes of slavery, apartheid, racism, patriarchy, dreams, and family relationships are all skillfully woven together.

I have a particular fondness for the use of the ballroom dancing and bumping metaphors. They vividly represent the oscillating reality of dreams and hope, adding a layer of depth and nuance to the story.

Just when I thought the play had reached its climax and I was yearning for more ideas to be explored, it takes an unexpected turn with the exploration of the dynamics between Hally and Sam + Willie. As much as it pains me to admit, their fallout was somewhat foreseeable.

I truly admire Sam's reaction to Hally's betrayal. It doesn't come as a surprise, considering the hardships that black people in his time had to endure. However, the unexpected twist occurs when Sam reveals the reason behind making the kite for Hally. This play delves deeper into the complex relationship between Hally, his dad, and Sam, introducing a novel merge of two crucial themes - racism and family relationship - to address the harsh reality of that period.

Overall, this play is a masterful work that leaves a lasting impression on the reader.
July 15,2025
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This is now my favourite book!

There is an abundance of symbolism involved in the book, which truly had a profound impact on me.

The author's use of symbols adds depth and layers to the story, making it a captivating and thought-provoking read.

Each symbol seems to carry a hidden meaning, waiting to be discovered and interpreted by the reader.

As I delved deeper into the book, I found myself constantly uncovering new symbols and understanding their significance within the context of the story.

The symbolism not only enhanced my enjoyment of the book but also made me reflect on various aspects of life and human nature.

It made me see the world from a different perspective and appreciate the power of literature to convey complex ideas and emotions through the use of symbols.

Overall, this book has become a cherished possession for me, and I will continue to explore its rich symbolism and the lessons it has to offer.
July 15,2025
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I had to read this for my world literature class, and it has now become my absolute favorite play.

It is short, yet incredibly powerful as it deeply tugs at the reader's humanity.

Despite encompassing broad themes such as racism, coming of age, and family dysfunction, the play remarkably manages to be personal and have a profound impact on the reader regarding the issue that is most significant to them.

For me, it was the aspect of coming of age that truly resonated.

The bittersweet ending leaves a glimmer of hope for a better tomorrow.

I absolutely cherished this read and will forever hold it dear in my heart.

It has opened my eyes to the complexity of human nature and the power of literature to touch our souls.

I highly recommend this play to anyone who is looking for a thought-provoking and emotionally engaging experience.

It is a true masterpiece that will stay with you long after you have finished reading it.

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