"Endgame"

 

    In my Theatre Appreciation class, we were asked to read Samuel Beckett's play, Endgame. The story takes place in the future with a demolished world, besides one family. The family ponders on the loss they have faced from this catastrophe and the pain that life ensues. Hamm, the main character, questions life and talks about all of his pain. Hamm's only concern is the pain of life. This leads the readers to question whether that is the truth. As a reader, I reflect on the ideas and concepts that we deem important in life and if they are worth the pain.

   At a point in time when there seems to be a lot of chaos and destruction in the world, it was somewhat easy to relate. There are times I feel like Hamm, there is nothing good in the world. But I know that is not completely true. Although there are many times when there seems to be no hope, there is always something to look forward to. Hamm remembers all of the pain that he has faced in life and questions if it was all worth it. He repeatedly states that the Earth is something that everyone needs a cure for, which is frankly quite depressing. 

   Towards the end of the story, Hamm's caretaker, Clove sees a young girl in the distance and debates whether he should go and help her. He feels drawn to her and believes he should leave the delirious family and save himself. If you look deeper into the meaning of the situation it is easy to relate. Should we all stay where we are because it is the only thing we know, or should we see if there is more outside?

   I think this was a great story, but it was hard at times to read. If there is some confusion over the plot it might be helpful to watch the play or movie version for a better understanding. Beckett leaves the readers with a lot of questions about how closely the story relates to us all now. 

Rating: 2.8/5 Stars