Williams, Tennessee: 1911-1983
A Streetcar Named Desire, 1947 - Language/Style
- English Language Level: Advanced
- Sophisticated Vocabulary – Some words and expressions are dated or literary (e.g. “Boorish” – means rude or uncultured or “Neurasthenic” – an old medical/psychological term describes nervous exhaustion).
Figurative language – Use of Metaphors, symbolism, and nuanced dialogue (e.g. Bathing = that Blanche is constantly bathing symbolizes her desire to cleanse herself of guilt and past sins).
Dialect & Colloquial Speech – The characters speak in Southern U.S. vernacular, which can be tricky for non-native readers (e.g. “I been around”: I have experience).
Subtext & Implied Meaning – Much of the drama is in what’s not said, requiring careful reading (e.g. Blanche’s past: She gives vague, polite explanations. Her husband’s suicide, her sexual history, and the financial scandals are only hinted at. The audience can piece together her tragic past while Blanche tries to maintain appearances).
- Sophisticated Vocabulary – Some words and expressions are dated or literary (e.g. “Boorish” – means rude or uncultured or “Neurasthenic” – an old medical/psychological term describes nervous exhaustion).
- The play relies on dated language, Southern dialect, symbolism, and subtext, requiring readers to infer meaning beyond the literal words.