“How beautiful it is and how easily it can be broken.” – stage directions by Tennessee Williams (p. xxi) 

Written by Tennessee Williams in 1944, The Glass Menagerie tells the story of the three people who comprise a small family in St. Louis, Missouri. Through the lens and memory of Tom Wingfield, the adult son, the dysfunctional nature of this family is portrayed. Each character experiences a change in circumstances or behavior that, although it may not be good, teaches the audience/readers a lesson. 

Every character is relatable to an extent. Being stuck in a mundane occupation or routine all the while harboring aspirations for greatness in a risky field; being shy and self-conscious to such an extent that, despite how small the flaw truly is, it begins to encompass and taint everything in life; and being regretful over one’s lost youth. The development, folly, and destruction of several characters are fascinating to read or watch. As the readers and the audience, we can see the cages that hold the characters hostage are of their own making. To see how these characters deal with their metaphorical chains teaches important lessons, which is why I believe it is imperative -especially for young people – to read or watch this piece of work. 

Furthermore, the symbolism of the glass menagerie and the directional choices explained in Tennessee Williams’s production notes are an insight into how important and symbolic the screen device, lighting, and music are – an important lesson for writers and those aspiring to be writers. 

Although I knew what was to happen, the emotional horror and heartbreak on behalf of Laura Wingfield and anger towards Tom for his decision was perhaps as heightened as if I had known nothing of the play. Although the play itself was short, one’s soul will be touched in a way that seems entirely disproportionate with its length. I highly recommend this play, although I must warn you: if you are quick to tears like me, have a box of tissues nearby.