BLASt’s first session this semester took place
on October 26, 2012. During the meeting we discussed David Mamet’s Pulitzer Prize-winning
play Glengarry Glen Ross (1984) and
its film adaptation by the same title (1992).
Focusing on Mamet’s distinctive use of ultra-naturalistic language, we examined the play in terms of its relevance to America’s malaise during Reagan’s administration. We also defined most prominent themes of the play, such as: the disillusionment with the American dream, vacuity and desperation of the ‘macho discourse’ and affectation as means of (mis)communication.
Focusing on Mamet’s distinctive use of ultra-naturalistic language, we examined the play in terms of its relevance to America’s malaise during Reagan’s administration. We also defined most prominent themes of the play, such as: the disillusionment with the American dream, vacuity and desperation of the ‘macho discourse’ and affectation as means of (mis)communication.
“The key to drama is how much can one remove, and still have the composition be intelligible. Chekhov removed the plot. Pinter removed the history, the narration; Beckett the characterizations. Omission is a form of creation.” - David Mamet
