There's something way down deep that's eternal about every human being.

Thornton Wilder’s Our Town is three acts dedicated to the dynamics of rural America. Having been written in the 1930s, it is impressive to find a similar account of small town society as it is portrayed in modern times, such as in David Kelley’s television drama Picket Fences or the interactions between characters in Stephen King’s Needful Things. Grover’s Corners, the setting of the play, is a small town in the Northeast, filled with Republicans and Protestant Christians. I found it interesting to note that more of the town was indifferent to politics than religion, demonstrating the mentality that matters of faith are more important than government operations or reforms. The play also explores the theme of attraction, with the highly ambitious Emily falling in love with the risk-taking George. The underlying sexism is important, as demonstrated when Joe Crowell expresses his distaste at the idea of his teacher getting married or by the fact that George is elected President while the more academically-advanced Emily must accept the title of Secretary/Treasurer. The meta-theatrical element of Our Town can be seen in the character of the Stage Manager, whose multiple incarnations and ability to command other characters give him an almost God-like presence. I was thrilled when the Stage Manager gave me permission to go have a smoke at the end of Act I. Overall, Our Town reinforces an appreciation for life through its depiction of Emily and her short, yet happy, life and also through anecdotes concerning Joe Crowell and Wally Webb.