William Inge - by Jackson R Bryer & Mary C Hartig (Paperback)

About the Book

"These previously unpublished essays take a look at some of William Inge's most popular work, as well as his less well-known later plays. Included are reminiscences which reveal the playwright's charm and generosity, and shed light on how a brilliant, troubled man eventually took his own life"--

Book Synopsis

William Inge's popular plays of the 1950s received Tony nominations (Bus Stop [1956], and Dark at the Top of the Stairs [1958]) and won a Pulitzer Prize (Picnic [1953]). As a screenwriter, he won an Academy Award (Splendor in the Grass [1961]). Yet Inge's career ended in perceived failure, depression and finally suicide. These previously unpublished essays take a fresh look at some of his most popular work, as well as his less well-known later plays. Inge's work was often ahead of its time, and foreshadowed the influence of popular media and advertising, the sexual revolution and the women's movement. The essays give context for Inge's work within twentieth-century American drama, and attest to his exceptional talent. Included are reminiscences which reveal the playwright's charm and generosity, and shed light on how a brilliant, troubled man eventually took his own life.

About the Author

Jackson R. Bryer is a professor emeritus of English at the University of Maryland. Mary C. Hartig is an adjunct professor of English at Montgomery College, Rockville, Maryland.