David Rabe's play, Hurlyburly, signifies a noteworthy evolution in both style and thematic exploration, distinguishing itself from his previous works while preserving certain thematic elements. Rabe, acclaimed for his portrayal of the Vietnam War through plays like Sticks and Bones, The Basic Training of Pavlo Hummel, and Streamers, predominantly focused on the soldier's experience and the abstract confines of their struggles. These earlier plays, though varied, shared a common motif: the soldier as a victim ensnared in a violent and indifferent societal framework, a theme less explicitly approached in his play In the Boom Boom Room.

Rabe’s Vietnam War trilogy delves into the turmoil of individuals ensnared by circumstances beyond their control. Characters like Pavlo, who revisits fractured memories seeking meaning, or Rick, the disoriented veteran struggling to reintegrate into society, underscore these narratives. Similarly, Streamers features paratroopers haunted by the image of unopened parachutes, a stark metaphor for their helplessness and lack of agency. These characters, navigating through confusion and fear, epitomize the helplessness in confronting their destinies.

Meanwhile, Hurlyburly represents both a thematic and stylistic shift. Set against the backdrop of Hollywood—a jungle of its own kind—it examines the nature of destiny through characters who are more perceptive and articulate than their predecessors. This setting allows Rabe to explore the concept of destiny being determined by chance, offering a fresh perspective on the age-old question of whether individuals control their own fates.

In terms of style, Hurlyburly is a clear departure from Rabe’s earlier nonrealistic techniques. Pivoting towards a traditional "well-made" play structure, Rabe showcases his versatility, demonstrating a refusal to be constrained by the stylistic successes of his past. This ambition to break new ground, rather than resting on prior accolades, highlights Rabe’s commitment to evolving as a playwright.