A Touch of the Poet and More Stately Mansions by eugene o/neill

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

July 15,2025

This play by O'Neill is not my favorite.

At times, it is quite challenging to read as the "brogue" alternates between English and old Irish usage. This creates a bit of a hurdle for the reader, making it a bit of a struggle to fully immerse oneself in the story.

However, it does offer an interesting exploration into the theme of the death of pride. The characters and their actions are examined in a way that makes one think about the nature of pride and how it can lead to downfall.

Overall, I would give it a mild recommendation. It's not a must-read, but if you're interested in O'Neill's work or the theme of pride, it might be worth checking out. Kristi & Abby Tabby.

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OfficialRage

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

July 15,2025

In 1828, just outside of Boston, Cornelius Melody, an Irish tavern owner, has his wife Nora and daughter Sara to take care of. Melody sees himself as a gentleman and enjoys talking about his days in the army. Sara is attending to a young man named Simon, whom she loves. However, her father doesn't believe it will work out because Simon is a "Yankee". Sara is also worried that Simon's mother will persuade him not to marry her. Melody feels insulted by Simon's father, who doesn't approve of the betrothal and is not present in the play but is mentioned. As a result, Melody decides to go and duel him with some of his buddies. After returning from this adventure, Melody is a different man. He confesses that he isn't truly a gentleman and that he simply stole the army uniform. Sara is extremely upset by the change in her father, but her mother tells her not to be sad because she is in love.

In the review, the person admits that they don't think they did a great job of summarizing. They also state that the play didn't quite do it for them and that it was just a bit uninteresting. They mention that it was okay but that they have read better plays.

Overall, the grade given is a C-.

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otakugurl17

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

July 15,2025

The conversation at work is beautiful and perhaps the dark comedy has added a kind of charm to the work.

In the workplace, communication plays a vital role. It can build good relationships among colleagues, enhance teamwork efficiency, and create a pleasant working atmosphere. The beautiful conversation not only exchanges information but also shares emotions and ideas.

And the dark comedy, with its unique humor and satire, can bring a different kind of entertainment and relaxation to the work. It can relieve stress, break the monotony, and make people look at things from a new perspective.

Therefore, we should cherish the beautiful conversation at work and also appreciate the charm of dark comedy. They can both make our work life more colorful and meaningful.

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Jimbo11

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

July 15,2025

This play seems to drag on interminably, and in the end, I find myself completely at a loss as to what the central point might be. Melody comes across as a delusional fool, and Nora is equally idiotic for allowing him to pull her down to the brink of destitution. We also lose all respect for Sara, who abandons her principled objection to her parents and resorts to using sex to obtain her man.

I truly struggle to fathom what O'Neill was attempting to convey through this convoluted narrative. Additionally, one has to wonder if the police even existed during that era. The lack of any real resolution or clear message leaves the audience feeling frustrated and unfulfilled. It makes one question the value and purpose of sitting through such a long and seemingly pointless production.

Perhaps a more in-depth analysis of the characters and their actions might reveal some hidden meaning or theme, but on the surface, this play appears to be a jumbled mess of confused ideas and unlikable characters.

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Azuab17

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

July 15,2025

Cornelius Melody, a former major and now a tavern keeper, dreams of the glorious old times. He refuses to recognize that those times have long passed and that the war glory brings him nothing but a day to celebrate the memory. Money is tight as Cornelius is his own best customer. His wife works herself to death to keep the family afloat. Only his daughter Sara might have a better future than her parents as she is about to make a good match.

Eugene O'Neill tells the story of Cornelius and his family without frills. He is a drunkard who lives in the memory of a long past era. Of course, he could stop drinking if he really wanted to. At least that's what he tells himself and his wife reinforces this illusion. But in fact, both know that he will never stop.

Sara looks down on her parents. On her drinking father and her mother who slaves away for him like a servant. She will do things differently, better. Because she has a rich friend who will marry her despite the resistance of his family.

The story of the Melody family seems clear: the drinking father, the devoted mother, and the daughter who imagines she is something better. Love does not seem to exist in this family, only contempt. But that's not the case, as the reader discovers only when paying attention to the small nuances. It's a wonderful piece that one should look at closely.

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ex0108

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

July 15,2025

I hold the highest esteem for O'Neill. He was the pioneer who founded the small theater movement and a tenacious experimental playwright. I have perused a significant number of his plays, yet not all. Frequently, I find his works to be long-winded and repetitive. This particular play was unknown to me. It revolves around a former Irishman who served bravely in the British army until he was ousted for engaging in a duel. He has journeyed to America with his wife and daughter and established a tavern which is now on the verge of failure. The tavern is failing as he indulges in nightly drinking, takes no part in the bar's operation, and lavishes his love and money on an expensive thoroughbred horse. He dwells in a fantasy world where his shame is avenged and he is on the brink of restoring his fortune and noble lineage.

Of course, it all comes crumbling down and perhaps in a psychological breakdown, he reverts to the more humble truth of his past. The play might be outdated in its structure, but for O'Neill, I believed it was concise and believable. It offers a profound exploration of human nature, the consequences of one's actions, and the power of illusion. O'Neill's ability to create complex and flawed characters is once again on display, making this play a worthy addition to his body of work.

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Ayato-kun

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

July 15,2025

Gabriel Byrne is a highly respected and talented actor.

He has had a remarkable career in both film and television. His performances are known for their depth and authenticity.

Byrne has the ability to bring complex characters to life on the screen, captivating audiences with his presence and skill.

He has worked with some of the industry's top directors and has appeared in a wide variety of genres, from dramas to thrillers.

His notable works include [list some of his well-known movies or TV shows].

Gabriel Byrne's contributions to the world of acting have earned him numerous accolades and a dedicated fan base.

He continues to be a force in the entertainment industry, constantly evolving and taking on new and challenging roles.

His talent and passion for acting are evident in every performance, making him a true icon in the field.

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Naneo

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

July 15,2025

I had the opportunity to witness the virtual production by Irish Rep.

It was truly a technical tour de force. The seamless integration of digital elements and live performance was nothing short of remarkable.

The final act was particularly powerful. It left a lasting impression on me, with its emotional depth and engaging narrative.

The use of virtual production added a new dimension to the theatrical experience, allowing for more creative possibilities and a more immersive environment.

I was thoroughly impressed by the talent and innovation on display. Irish Rep's virtual production is a prime example of how technology can enhance and transform the world of theater.

I look forward to seeing what they come up with next.

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A Touch of the Poet and More Stately Mansions

eugene o/neill martha gilman bower

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