First Plays By: A. A. Milne (1882-1956)
First Plays by A. A. Milne is a delightful collection of dramatic works that showcases the author's versatility and wit. This compilation offers a fascinating glimpse into Milne's early career as a playwright, long before he gained fame for his beloved children's stories. The book comprises four plays, each unique in its narrative and style. The first play, which also serves as the title of the collection, tells the story of a group of friends who gather at a country house. Milne captures the essence of human interactions with a keen eye for humor and subtle sarcasm, creating a witty and captivating dialogue. The second play, "The Boy Comes Home," explores the themes of identity, societal expectations, and the complexities of family dynamics. It weaves together both comedic and introspective moments, leaving readers with much to reflect upon. One of the highlights of this collection is undoubtedly the third play, "Belinda." With its charming and endearing characters, Milne masterfully crafts a tale of unrequited love and the challenges of finding one's place in the world. The dialogue in this play showcases Milne's gift for clever wordplay, creating memorable and often humorous exchanges between the characters. The emotional depth and relatable themes make "Belinda" a standout piece in the collection. Closing the compilation is the final play, "The Red Feathers," a gripping mystery infused with elements of suspense and comedy. Milne effectively builds tension through intricate plot twists and unexpected revelations. The witty banter between characters injects a dose of lightness, preventing the play from becoming too somber. Throughout First Plays, Milne displays his ability to craft compelling narratives and his knack for creating memorable characters. His sharp, clever dialogue keeps readers engaged, while his exploration of universal themes ensures that the plays remain relevant and enjoyable even after all these years. In addition to showcasing Milne's skill as a playwright, the book provides valuable insight into the author's development as a writer. For fans of his children's literature, First Plays offers a unique opportunity to explore a different aspect of Milne's creative genius. Overall, First Plays is an engaging and charming collection that demonstrates A. A. Milne's versatility as a writer. Whether you are a fan of his children's stories or simply enjoy well-crafted plays, this book is a must-read. First Page: FIRST PLAYS By A. A. Milne TO MY MOTHER CONTENTS INTRODUCTION WURZEL FLUMMERY THE LUCKY ONE THE BOY COMES HOME BELINDA THE RED FEATHERS INTRODUCTION These five plays were written, in the order in which they appear now, during the years 1916 and 1917. They would hardly have been written had it not been for the war, although only one of them is concerned with that subject. To his other responsibilities the Kaiser now adds this volume. For these plays were not the work of a professional writer, but the recreation of a (temporary) professional soldier. Play writing is a luxury to a journalist, as insidious as golf and much more expensive in time and money. When an article is written, the financial reward (and we may as well live as not) is a matter of certainty. A novelist, too, even if he is not in "the front rank" but I never heard of one who wasn't can at least be sure of publication. But when a play is written, there is no certainty of anything save disillusionment. To write a play, then, while I was a journalist seemed to me a depraved proceeding, almost as bad as going to Lord's in the morning. I thought I could write one (we all think we can), but I could not afford so unpromising a gamble. But once in the Army the case was altered... Continue reading book >>

First Plays By: A. A. Milne (1882-1956)

First Plays by A. A. Milne is a delightful collection of dramatic works that showcases the author's versatility and wit. This compilation offers a fascinating glimpse into Milne's early career as a playwright, long before he gained fame for his beloved children's stories.

The book comprises four plays, each unique in its narrative and style. The first play, which also serves as the title of the collection, tells the story of a group of friends who gather at a country house. Milne captures the essence of human interactions with a keen eye for humor and subtle sarcasm, creating a witty and captivating dialogue. The second play, "The Boy Comes Home," explores the themes of identity, societal expectations, and the complexities of family dynamics. It weaves together both comedic and introspective moments, leaving readers with much to reflect upon.

One of the highlights of this collection is undoubtedly the third play, "Belinda." With its charming and endearing characters, Milne masterfully crafts a tale of unrequited love and the challenges of finding one's place in the world. The dialogue in this play showcases Milne's gift for clever wordplay, creating memorable and often humorous exchanges between the characters. The emotional depth and relatable themes make "Belinda" a standout piece in the collection.

Closing the compilation is the final play, "The Red Feathers," a gripping mystery infused with elements of suspense and comedy. Milne effectively builds tension through intricate plot twists and unexpected revelations. The witty banter between characters injects a dose of lightness, preventing the play from becoming too somber.

Throughout First Plays, Milne displays his ability to craft compelling narratives and his knack for creating memorable characters. His sharp, clever dialogue keeps readers engaged, while his exploration of universal themes ensures that the plays remain relevant and enjoyable even after all these years.

In addition to showcasing Milne's skill as a playwright, the book provides valuable insight into the author's development as a writer. For fans of his children's literature, First Plays offers a unique opportunity to explore a different aspect of Milne's creative genius.

Overall, First Plays is an engaging and charming collection that demonstrates A. A. Milne's versatility as a writer. Whether you are a fan of his children's stories or simply enjoy well-crafted plays, this book is a must-read.

First Page:

FIRST PLAYS

By A. A. Milne

TO MY MOTHER

CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION WURZEL FLUMMERY THE LUCKY ONE THE BOY COMES HOME BELINDA THE RED FEATHERS

INTRODUCTION

These five plays were written, in the order in which they appear now, during the years 1916 and 1917. They would hardly have been written had it not been for the war, although only one of them is concerned with that subject. To his other responsibilities the Kaiser now adds this volume.

For these plays were not the work of a professional writer, but the recreation of a (temporary) professional soldier. Play writing is a luxury to a journalist, as insidious as golf and much more expensive in time and money. When an article is written, the financial reward (and we may as well live as not) is a matter of certainty. A novelist, too, even if he is not in "the front rank" but I never heard of one who wasn't can at least be sure of publication. But when a play is written, there is no certainty of anything save disillusionment.

To write a play, then, while I was a journalist seemed to me a depraved proceeding, almost as bad as going to Lord's in the morning. I thought I could write one (we all think we can), but I could not afford so unpromising a gamble. But once in the Army the case was altered... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Literature
Play

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Wikipedia – First Plays

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