Suzan-Lori Parks' Play, Top-Underdog: An Analysis
11/2/12
“Et tu Booth?”
In Suzan-Lori Parks play, “Top-Underdog” two brothers are shown in the same urban environment, yet they exhibit distinct differences in behavior and attitude. The audience or reader of the play is presented with the world of Lincoln and Booth, their current situation, and the way in which the two brothers react to the predicaments they are in. The dreams that one holds dear in such a situation are viewed as amoral and illegal to one in different circumstances and ones attempts to rise above such is often viewed as pathetic and demeaning. The play attempts to explain how two financially strapped brothers attempt to make it by in a world that has not been that kind to them.
Lincoln in the play can be described as a more reserved character based on his actions and words. His disposition varies greatly with that of his brother and also his prior life events have been different before the play. This establishment and experience benefits him towards the end of the play where he returns to his old ways. Booth attempts to become what Lincoln once was, but he is unsuccessful in his ventures because he has no prior knowledge or experience in hustling cards and living a life like the one Lincoln had prior. He attempts to emulate his brother and at the same time disrespects Lincoln at the same time. In the same respect Lincoln makes an honest attempt to rehabilitate his life and do honest work but, his efforts are in vain after he loses his job. Violence in this play is prevalent whether off screen or in the actual apartment in which Page 2 the action is happening. Fire arms are frequently carried by both of the characters in the play and in the first act, the audience witnesses that no individual is exempt from the direction the muzzle is pointing. Booth does not hesitate to pull a pistol on his only surviving family member minutes into the play, eluding to the ending of the last scene.
“Et tu Booth?”
In Suzan-Lori Parks play, “Top-Underdog” two brothers are shown in the same urban environment, yet they exhibit distinct differences in behavior and attitude. The audience or reader of the play is presented with the world of Lincoln and Booth, their current situation, and the way in which the two brothers react to the predicaments they are in. The dreams that one holds dear in such a situation are viewed as amoral and illegal to one in different circumstances and ones attempts to rise above such is often viewed as pathetic and demeaning. The play attempts to explain how two financially strapped brothers attempt to make it by in a world that has not been that kind to them.
Lincoln in the play can be described as a more reserved character based on his actions and words. His disposition varies greatly with that of his brother and also his prior life events have been different before the play. This establishment and experience benefits him towards the end of the play where he returns to his old ways. Booth attempts to become what Lincoln once was, but he is unsuccessful in his ventures because he has no prior knowledge or experience in hustling cards and living a life like the one Lincoln had prior. He attempts to emulate his brother and at the same time disrespects Lincoln at the same time. In the same respect Lincoln makes an honest attempt to rehabilitate his life and do honest work but, his efforts are in vain after he loses his job. Violence in this play is prevalent whether off screen or in the actual apartment in which Page 2 the action is happening. Fire arms are frequently carried by both of the characters in the play and in the first act, the audience witnesses that no individual is exempt from the direction the muzzle is pointing. Booth does not hesitate to pull a pistol on his only surviving family member minutes into the play, eluding to the ending of the last scene.