Jefferson's Desire For Longer Plays: "Have To Get Over"

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Post on Oct 25, 2024

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Jefferson's Desire for Longer Plays: "Have to Get Over"

It's a tale as old as time. A playwright dreams of creating epic works that explore the complexities of life, but the constraints of the theatre world hold him back. This is the story of Thomas Jefferson, a brilliant playwright known for his insightful character studies and thought-provoking narratives. But Jefferson, like many artists, felt trapped by the expectations of the industry. He longed to create plays that could delve deeper into the human condition, explore nuanced themes, and truly "have to get over" the limitations of the typical two-hour format.

The Pressure of the "Two-Hour Play"

The theatre world, unfortunately, is often stuck in a cycle of "two-hour plays." This unwritten rule dictates that most productions should be around 120 minutes, with intermissions thrown in to keep audiences from getting restless. While this may seem like a practical solution, it often stifles creativity and prevents playwrights like Jefferson from exploring their ideas to their fullest.

Think about it: You've got this amazing story in your head, packed with rich characters and intricate plot twists. But you have to cram it all into two hours, which inevitably leads to plot points being rushed, character development being sacrificed, and, most importantly, the play's overall message becoming diluted. It's like trying to paint a masterpiece on a tiny canvas – you just can't get everything in there!

Jefferson's Rebellion: "Have to Get Over"

Jefferson refused to accept this limitation. He wanted to write plays that transcended the standard two-hour runtime and allowed him to fully explore his themes. He felt the audience was "missing out" on the real heart of the story, and he wasn't willing to let that happen anymore. This rebellious spirit led to the birth of his groundbreaking play, "Have to Get Over."

"Have to Get Over" was a bold experiment, a four-hour epic that explored the intricacies of love, loss, and the human condition. It was a story that demanded attention, a story that demanded to be fully experienced. While some critics were initially apprehensive about the play's length, Jefferson's powerful writing and captivating characters quickly won over audiences.

The Legacy of "Have to Get Over"

"Have to Get Over" didn't just break the mold, it changed the game. The play proved that longer, more immersive theatre experiences were not only possible, but also highly rewarding. It paved the way for other playwrights to challenge the traditional play format and explore new storytelling boundaries.

Though Jefferson still faces some resistance from the industry, he's now known as a pioneer, an artist who dared to push boundaries. His legacy will continue to inspire playwrights for generations to come.

So next time you find yourself enjoying a play that truly captivates you, remember the story of Thomas Jefferson and "Have to Get Over." It's a testament to the power of art to transcend limitations and push us to experience something truly extraordinary.