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Louis MacNeice (1907-1963) is rightfully regarded as one of the foremost Irish poets of this century, but he was also a distinctive, gifted, and popular playwright. This unique selection of eight of MacNeice's best plays, most of which were written for BBC Radio, draws on the most authoritative texts to provide a much-needed reminder of the power of his dramatic writing. The volume includes The Dark Tower, They Met on Good Friday, The Mad Islands, One for the Grave, Christopher Columbus, He Had a Date, Prisoner's Progress, and Persons from Porlock.
This collection presents a selection of eight dramatic works that explore the intersection of human morality, historical weight, and the unique constraints of radio-based storytelling. MacNeice utilizes his background as a poet to craft dialogue that functions as both narrative advancement and rhythmic exploration. The protagonists in these plays often grapple with existential dilemmas, societal pressures, and the tension between individual agency and external forces. The narrative framework shifts between allegorical fantasy and grounded historical reflection, demanding that the listener engage with the text through auditory imagination and thematic depth.
Discussion often centers on the distinct transition of MacNeice's poetic voice into the realm of broadcast drama. Readers frequently highlight the technical ingenuity required to make radio plays effective without the benefit of visual staging. Critics note that the collection serves as a vital record of mid-century Irish literary output, emphasizing the balance between intellectual rigor and accessible storytelling. The thematic threads regarding the human condition remain a primary focus for those examining his influence on modern radio drama. This volume is recognized for preserving the auditory texture of his work for contemporary audiences.
Page Count:
432
Publication Date:
1994-01-27
Publisher:
Clarendon Press
ISBN-10:
0198112459
ISBN-13:
9780198112457
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