Genre: Drama, Southern Gothic
Key Stage: Upper KS4+
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Sweet Bird of Youth, Tennessee Williams (1959)
Throughout this book, you notice how Tennessee Williams has an engaging way on writing about a loss within dreams or youth. Indeed, the title ‘Sweet Bird of Youth’ really sets the story, not being able to regain your ‘Youth,’ the characters are growing up and it is time to let go of their ‘youth’ and grow or fly like a ‘Bird’ into a new era of their lives. In ‘Sweet Bird of Youth,’ you will see many characters suffering from the loss of their youth, this realistic moment touches readers as it is something everyone goes through. It is unescapable. Furthermore, it also relates to the struggles of chasing and gaining your dreams, these unattainable dreams. This is enhanced through the character Chance, who, nonetheless, chases minor dreams, when he was younger, he believed he was worthy of fame. You could say he is trying to obtain the American Dream.
I enjoyed reading this play a lot, I especially loved the moment between Chance and Princess at the end, when they discuss the nature of time passing. It is so beautifully heart-breaking and touching. Although, I personally think that Chance is quite an annoying character, but his tragic stories endear you to him. At the end, Princess almost encourages Chance to let go: “we’re going to change trains,” “we’ve got to go on…Chance, please.” I believe this to be symbolic, leaving the train will be leaving their youth.
Reviewer: Asma, Year 12