In Our Town, by Thorton Wilder, what does the rain symbolize?
Does the rain symbolize crying and bad luck for the couple?
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In Thornton Wilder's play "Our Town," the rain symbolizes the preciousness and fleeting nature of life. It serves as a constant reminder of the transience and impermanence of human existence.
To understand the symbolism of rain in "Our Town," let's take a closer look at the play itself. "Our Town" is set in the fictional small town of Grover's Corners and focuses on the lives of its residents, particularly the Gibbs and Webb families. The play explores themes of love, marriage, mortality, and the passage of time.
Throughout the play, rain appears as a recurring motif. The Stage Manager, who serves as a narrator, frequently mentions the rain and its significance. The rain represents the unpredictability and uncontrollable nature of life. Just as rain is beyond human control, so are the circumstances and events that shape our lives.
Moreover, rain symbolizes the power of nature and the cycle of life and death. As the rain falls, it nourishes the earth and sustains life. In this way, rain represents the life force and vitality that exists in the world. However, rain also has the power to disrupt and destroy, symbolizing the inevitable hardships and adversities that humans must face.
The rain's symbolism is particularly evident during the third act of the play, set in a cemetery. As the deceased characters reflect on their lives, they remark on the natural beauty of the rain falling on the earth. It serves as a reminder that life, with all its joys and sorrows, is meant to be embraced and appreciated, even as it inevitably comes to an end.
To understand the rain's symbolism in "Our Town," it is important to closely read the play, paying attention to the descriptions and references to rain throughout. Analyzing the characters' reactions and dialogues regarding rain can also provide insights into its symbolic meaning.