Analysis

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The contributions of Lynn Riggs to American drama have often been overshadowed by his classification as a regional dramatist, akin to Susan Glaspell and Paul Green. However, Riggs's body of work is both diverse and profound, reflecting a rich tapestry of themes and styles. His plays delve into the complexities of ethnic identities, the assertion of women, and the deep currents of human desire, offering audiences a blend of naturalism and poetic expression.

Diverse Themes in Riggs's Plays

Riggs's work transcends simple regionalism by incorporating a variety of ethnic experiences. His plays feature Cherokee characters in "The Cherokee Night," depict Hispanic communities in "The Year of Pilar" and "A World Elsewhere," and explore the lives of farmers and ranchers in "Green Grow the Lilacs." Riggs's plays often focus on the struggles of women seeking autonomy and love, a theme that recurs in many of his works, from romantic comedies to somber tragedies. Within these narratives, Riggs examines the challenges faced by women as they strive for self-assertion in a world that often seeks to confine them to traditional roles.

Stylistic Distinctions

Lynn Riggs's plays are notable for their unique stylistic attributes, often blending elements of realism with poetic expression. The dream ballet in Rodgers and Hammerstein's adaptation of "Oklahoma!" is a reflection of the dream-like qualities already present in Riggs's original play "Green Grow the Lilacs." His use of authentic folk songs and a distinctive poetic diction extends the emotional and thematic reach of his plays beyond the confines of naturalism. Riggs is adept at creating heightened emotional states through melodramatic situations and language that reveal the unconscious drives of his characters, as seen in works like "The Cream in the Well" and "The Cherokee Night."

Strengths and Challenges

Riggs's plays are known for their evocative use of natural beauty and poetic imagery, which can transform settings into powerful symbols. This ability is evident in the stage directions for "Green Grow the Lilacs," where the beauty of the natural world is vividly captured in the lyrics of "Oklahoma!." Yet, Riggs faces challenges in character development and structural clarity. "The Cherokee Night" exemplifies how the focus on thematic illustration can sometimes overshadow character depth, while its non-linear structure may confuse audiences. Similarly, "The Cream in the Well" presents a compelling yet contrived melodrama centered on themes of incest, demonstrating Riggs's preoccupation with exploring complex and often taboo subjects, regardless of their commercial appeal.

Protagonists and Gender Dynamics

The protagonists in Riggs's plays are frequently women navigating the quest for love and autonomy. These characters challenge traditional gender roles, seeking independence from male-dominated dynamics. Riggs's plays often conclude happily when characters find common ground in their values, whether adhering to traditional roles or embracing newer ideals of gender equality. Conversely, conflicts with external pressures or internal unrest typically lead to tragic endings. Riggs's work reflects an understanding of the inexorable forces driving social change and the human effort to adapt to these transformations.

Psychoanalytic Influences

Lynn Riggs's interest in the psychological underpinnings of his characters finds resonance with Freudian theories. In correspondence with W. David Sievers for "Freud on Broadway," Riggs acknowledged his plays' alignment with psychoanalytic exploration. His characters are often driven by libidinal impulses, which are portrayed with empathy, even when they challenge societal norms. For instance, Gail Atwood in "Dark Encounter" and Kay in "Russet Mantle " engage in relationships that defy conventional morality, yet Riggs presents them as sympathetic...

(This entire section contains 1118 words.)

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figures on journeys of self-discovery.

Early Works: Exploring Human Struggles

Much of Riggs's early work, from "Knives from Syria" to "Green Grow the Lilacs," examines the lives of young people grappling with their identities in a harsh, rural environment. These plays, reminiscent of Eugene O'Neill's farm dramas, delve into personal and familial conflict. "A Lantern to See By" is a poignant example, exploring themes of familial duty and rebellion through the character of Jodie Harmon, who is driven to violence in defense of his mother's dignity.

A Lantern to See By

"A Lantern to See By" portrays a tragic narrative of familial conflict and individual aspiration in a rural setting. The play centers on Jodie Harmon, a sensitive young man who collides with his authoritarian father over the treatment of his mother. The tension escalates when Jodie's affection for Annie Marble, a pragmatic young woman, is manipulated, leading to a violent confrontation with his father. The play starkly contrasts the poetic and idealistic aspirations of its protagonist with the harsh realities of his environment, offering a critical lens on themes of inheritance, power, and autonomy.

Sump'n Like Wings

In "Sump'n Like Wings," Riggs presents the story of Willie, a young woman defying societal conventions to assert her independence. Her struggles against a restrictive mother and a deceitful partner underscore themes of personal responsibility and liberation. Through Willie's journey, Riggs captures the complexity of female sexuality and selfhood, marking a bold exploration of themes that challenge 1930s societal norms. The play invites audiences to see Willie's determination as a triumph, despite critiques of her actions as selfish.

Green Grow the Lilacs

"Green Grow the Lilacs" explores themes of love and conflict within the natural world, using the romance between Curly and Laurey as a lens to examine human connection and nature's fecundity. Riggs's depiction of the rural setting enriches the narrative, weaving folk songs and poetic imagery into the fabric of the play. The tension between Curly and the menacing Jeeter highlights the play's underlying exploration of healthy versus neurotic sexuality. Although the adaptation into the musical "Oklahoma!" achieved greater fame, Riggs's original work remains a testament to his ability to blend traditional themes with innovative storytelling.

Russet Mantle

In "Russet Mantle," Riggs examines the clash between love and societal conventions through the character of Kay Rowley. Kay's defiance of her conservative family's expectations leads to a narrative exploring the liberation of individual desires. The play juxtaposes comic elements, predominantly through Kay's mother, Effie, with serious commentary on the consequences of sacrificing personal happiness for material security. Riggs's nuanced portrayal of Kay's journey highlights his skill in balancing humor and drama while exploring profound societal critiques.

The Cherokee Night

"The Cherokee Night" is a powerful exploration of cultural identity and disintegration, structured through a series of interconnected scenes that span decades. Riggs uses the Cherokee burial ground as a symbolic anchor, emphasizing the loss of cultural heritage among the characters as they navigate the complexities of identity and assimilation. The play's innovative structure and evocative symbolism create a poignant commentary on the impact of cultural erosion and intermarriage. Despite its initial challenges in production and reception, "The Cherokee Night" stands as a unique and important piece in Riggs's oeuvre, revealing his deep engagement with issues of identity and memory.

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