The title of McNally's play, Love! Valour! Compassion!, might seem straightforward, yet it encapsulates a tapestry of complex, multi-faceted themes. Through the interplay of dialogue and dramatic action, McNally delves into how these seemingly intangible concepts profoundly shape the lives of his eight characters, suggesting their universal relevance.

Introduction of Themes

From the very first utterance, the play unveils one of its core themes. Gregory's hesitant words, "Um. I love my. Um. House," break the silence, revealing not only affection for his home with its antique charm and glowing windows but also the cherished memories and the joyous gatherings it hosts. His house stands as a sanctuary from the outside world's chaos, a haven where true friendship flourishes.

Explorations of Love

During the summer that frames the play's events, love manifests in myriad forms within the house's walls. Beyond his beloved home, Gregory shares his life with Bobby, his partner of four years. Bobby, younger by two decades and visually impaired, holds deep admiration for Gregory's dedication to dance, though he has yet to experience it fully. However, Bobby's youth and naiveté lead him astray, resulting in a betrayal with Ramon that strains their bond. Even as Gregory forgives him, Bobby's epilogue confession reveals his departure for a younger lover.

In contrast, Perry and Arthur exemplify a seasoned love. Unlike Gregory and Bobby's nascent relationship, Perry and Arthur mark their fourteenth anniversary, embodying companionship and commitment. "We’re role models," Perry quips, acknowledging the pressures they face. Their friendly disputes are tempered by unwavering devotion, and their story concludes with the promise of growing old and departing this world closely together.

Love in Adversity

A third narrative thread weaves through Buzz and James's relationship, a blend of exhilarating young love with the steadfastness of mature attachment. Yet, it is tinged with urgency due to James's declining health from AIDS, accelerating their connection over one transformative summer. Initially, Buzz claims to have abandoned hope for new romantic pursuits, citing his intensity as off-putting and his HIV-positive status as daunting. Despite intentions to remain solitary, his affection for James flourishes unexpectedly, blossoming into a profound commitment as he tenderly supports James through his illness's final stages.

In crafting the title for his play, McNally opted for the British variant "valour," likely in homage to his English characters, the twins John and James Jeckyll. To be valorous is to possess the audacity to confront daunting challenges head-on, irrespective of the outcome. This trait permeates many figures within the narrative. Consider Buzz, whose sharp wit and humor serve as his armor against the world, despite his HIV-positive status. Then there's Gregory, a seasoned dancer and choreographer, who at forty-three, courageously curates his swan song masterpiece, bequeathing it to the youthful Ramon.

Enter Bobby, whose blindness from birth doesn't deter him from navigating life with remarkable adaptability. He candidly assures Ramon upon meeting, "I get around fine. It'll surprise you." True to his declaration, Bobby's condition is scarcely mentioned throughout the play, as he energetically partakes in all the weekend's escapades—canoeing, skinny-dipping, and meandering through the idyllic woods—right alongside his companions.

The Courage of James

Among the bravest in the ensemble is James. Joining the group for the first time during the Independence Day weekend, he swiftly earns their respect and affection. Despite his advanced AIDS, accompanied by relentless fatigue and incontinence, he exudes a serene and amiable demeanor, deftly sidestepping any focus on his ailment. In a touching scene, Buzz persistently probes James about his true feelings, only to receive a Shakespearean retort, "We defy augury." This is James's wry, steadfast refusal to succumb...