Fortitude and Endurance
The indomitable spirit of Franklin D. Roosevelt empowers him to face both mental and physical tribulations with unwavering courage. As the play unfolds, it vividly captures FDR's resilience during pivotal moments across the thirty-four-month ordeal marked by his illness and re-emergence into the public sphere. His character, imbued with fortitude, humor, and elegance, shines through as he confronts challenges that seem insurmountable.
When FDR steps back into the limelight on his journey to New York, he skillfully dispels any discomfort enveloping him and his family, greeting the occasion with levity. Rather than dwelling on the unwelcome attention he might attract, he jests with Howe, "As Assistant Secretary of the Navy I used to rate a seventeen-gun salute. Have you arranged for that?" His lightheartedness acts as a balm, easing the anxieties of his companions, including his children.
Defying Expectations
Even more extraordinary is FDR's steadfast refusal to let his paralysis serve as a veil from the public gaze. His mother frequently cautions him about the perils that await an invalid daring to live under public scrutiny. Despite her warnings, those who support him most, like Howe and Eleanor, fret over his Madison Square Garden debut. They meticulously orchestrate every detail of his speech, even counting the number of steps to the podium. When Howe nervously predicts, "they are liable to be the ten biggest steps you ever took in your life," FDR lightens the atmosphere with a playful quip, "Perhaps—or to be clinical—I may fall smack on my gluteus maximus."
Loneliness and Isolation
FDR's physical limitations cast a shadow of solitude over him, further deepening his sense of isolation. In a rare moment of intimacy with Eleanor, he confides how these challenges have reshaped his self-perception. Once a vibrant participant in life's dance, he now views himself as a spectator, watching others engage while he remains motionless. "When you're forced to sit a lot—and watch others move about—you feel apart—lonely—because you can't get up and pace around," FDR reflects.
This inability to freely roam leaves him, by his own admission, envying those who "parade around all over" his office. The suppressed desire to shout at them, "sit down—quiet down—stand still," is a direct manifestation of his isolation. It is a sensation rooted in his physical incapacity to keep pace. With loneliness, FDR observes, "certain fears seek you out and hunt for a place in your mind." The notion of confronting fire alone haunts him, leading to nightmares of being trapped, immobile, and vulnerable.
The Struggle for Acceptance
Throughout the play, FDR battles against the waves of loneliness and alienation imposed by his physical constraints. His journey culminates in a moment of victory when he courageously steps onto the platform at Madison Square Garden. This triumphant act garners him the respect and embrace of his mother, his family, and most significantly, his Democratic supporters. Through this bold step, he bridges the divide between the perception of FDR as an invalid and FDR as a formidable man.
Destiny
In the unfolding drama of the play, FDR's seemingly inescapable path into the political realm is emphasized through the voices of those around him and the larger narrative of his battle against paralysis. As the curtain rises, the hints of this political destiny echo, especially through Eleanor and Howe's dialogues. When FDR laments about the nation's political landscape in the opening act, Eleanor swiftly counters with Howe's assertion that her husband can indeed "reverse the trend," underscoring Howe's unwavering belief that FDR is meant to ascend to the presidency.
The character of Howe emerges as FDR’s most fervent supporter, unwavering in his belief that his friend's political triumph is not only inevitable but divinely destined. This conviction plays a crucial role throughout the narrative, as does Eleanor’s relentless encouragement. Their steadfast faith in FDR's capabilities becomes a beacon during pivotal moments in the play. For instance, when Sara launches a final verbal attack on FDR's aspirations, sowing seeds of doubt in his mind about enduring the "gaff (abuse) of active work," Howe is quick to reassure him, reminding FDR that "God has an eye" on his political journey.
When Eleanor is called upon to share her perspective, she too rallies behind FDR, urging him to "pursue principles without calculating the consequences." In this manner, the trajectory of FDR’s political ambitions is depicted not merely as a career choice but as a commitment entwined with the intricate challenges of his personal life.
Courage in the Face of Adversity
Sunrise at Campobello provides an intimate portrayal of Franklin Delano Roosevelt, focusing on his little-known struggle with polio. The play captures his resilience and determination in confronting this life-altering challenge, offering insights into how these experiences fortified his character and prepared him for the presidency.
Roosevelt's bravery is vividly illustrated through his unyielding optimism, even in the face of severe adversity. After being stricken by polio, he was unable to walk and required a stretcher for mobility. Nevertheless, he managed to turn what could have been a moment of vulnerability into one of dignified triumph. With characteristic humor, he bantered with his close advisor Louis Howe, likening himself to the caliph of Baghdad. This light-hearted confidence was further emphasized when he adorned himself with his trademark fedora, placed his cigarette holder at a jaunty angle, and invited his Scottie dog onto his lap. The image of Roosevelt in this composed and spirited pose was so compelling that it graced the cover of Life magazine, capturing the public's imagination and admiration.
Role of Humor in Recovery
During Franklin D. Roosevelt’s recovery, humor proved to be a crucial element, largely due to the presence of his friend and adviser, Louis Howe. Howe's wit and comedic flair were instrumental in lifting Roosevelt’s spirits amid his convalescence. Whether he was reciting William Ernest Henley’s poem “Invictus” (1875) in a farcical Dutch accent, relishing in tales of his escapades to outsmart intrusive reporters, or peppering conversations with sharp wisecracks, Howe’s humor had a profound impact. His brand of dry, sometimes caustic humor not only entertained but also played an integral role in maintaining a positive atmosphere that was essential for Roosevelt’s recovery.
Family Support
The unwavering support of Franklin D. Roosevelt's family plays a crucial role in his journey, particularly the empathy and understanding offered by Eleanor. She stands as a pillar of strength, providing a compassionate ear whenever Roosevelt grapples with bouts of gloom and depression. During those moments, he often reflects on how engaging in physical activity helps him combat the isolation he feels due to his disability. Eleanor's encouragement is evident in her acceptance of his crawling, which despite its challenges, offers him a degree of independence he cherishes. The family's collective support reaches its zenith in a poignant moment with their eldest son, Jimmy, who aids Roosevelt with his crutches as he makes his way to the convention podium in the final scene. This act symbolizes not only familial love but also a shared commitment to Roosevelt's pursuits and legacy.
Importance of Physical Activity
Before the onset of his disability, Roosevelt was known for his vigorous engagement in sports and physical activity, which remained a cornerstone of his life even during his recovery. Despite the challenges posed by polio, he emphasized the importance of staying physically active. In the play, he demonstrates his commitment by insisting that the dumbwaiter he uses to move between floors should remain manually operated, as it provides essential exercise for his arms and shoulders. This determination to maintain physical strength is further highlighted when he spontaneously wrestles with his sons, a vivid reminder that the resilient spirit of the old Franklin still thrives within him, vigorous and unyielding.
Personal Growth and Political Resolve
Franklin D. Roosevelt's journey in overcoming his disability is not merely a tale of political acumen, but also one of profound personal growth and introspection. Although Roosevelt had always been a skilled politician, the adversity he faced due to his condition elevated his character and deepened his self-awareness. In intimate conversations with Eleanor, Roosevelt disclosed that the inability to hasten through life taught him invaluable lessons in patience. This personal challenge also instilled in him a newfound humility, compelling him to lean on his religious faith for strength and guidance.
This period of reflection and transformation fortified Roosevelt's convictions. Already a passionate advocate for progressive causes, his experience intensified his empathy towards others and reinforced his commitment to global peace. He had demonstrated his progressive values earlier by divesting from mining stocks upon learning of the miners' harsh treatment, but his disability catalyzed a renewed dedication to these ideals.
Despite pressures from his mother to retreat to Hyde Park and adopt the quiet life of a country squire, Roosevelt chose a different path. His decision to remain in politics and pursue a vision of a better world underscored a strengthened resolve. Through personal trials, Roosevelt not only matured as an individual but also emerged with a more profound dedication to public service and a clearer vision of the compassionate leadership he wished to embody.
