From Linz to Langland - by Alan Sandry (Paperback)

About the Book

The play imagines a series of encounters undertaken by Ludwig Wittgenstein, one of the world's greatest philosophers, during his time in Swansea from 1942-47.

Book Synopsis

Ludwig Wittgenstein was one of the greatest philosophers of all time. Between 1942-1947 he regularly visited Swansea, primarily to see his friend and former student Rush Rhees, who was lecturing at Swansea University. Together they would work on philosophical matters that eventually become the posthumously published Philosophical Investigations. Wittgenstein thoroughly enjoyed his time in Swansea, and he spent a lot of time walking around the city and along its beaches. He met a variety of fascinating characters, some academic, some proletariat. This play imagines some of those conversations, which cover a variety of issues.

Wittgenstein arrives in Swansea and is met by Perkins, a cabbie. He is taken to his digs in Langland Road where he interacts with his landlady Mrs Mann. Wittgenstein spend time on campus and two students, Carwyn and Rebecca, have strong opinions about the great philosopher. The key figure of Rush Rhees, sitting in his office, engages in a dialogue with Wittgenstein. One evening Wittgenstein comes across the dramatist and activist Saunders Lewis. They talk politics and related matters. Wittgenstein lodged at two addresses at Cwmdonkin Terrace from 1944-47. In this scene he argues with Reverend Morgan about religion. In 1947 Wittgenstein's partner came to Swansea and Richards took the famous photograph of Wittgenstein at Brynmill Train Station. Wittgenstein loved to wander the bays and this scene sees him contemplating life at Langland Bay. The final scene captures Wittgenstein at High Street Station as he departs Swansea for the last time.