This collection brings together some of the best and most frequently performed plays by John Arden and Margaretta DArcy whose collaboration stems from the political years of the SixtiesThe Business of Good Government is a nativity play which develops a sense of a disappearing community; Ars Longa Vita Brevis is composed out of childrens games and The Royal Pardon tells the story of the adventures of a group of strolling players who fall in with a deserter from the war in Flanders. Other plays in this collection such as Little Gray Home in the West and The Vandaleurs Folly arise from the highly charged political arena of the 1970s in Ireland.Arden and DArcy have been consistently interested in using drama to extend the very boundaries of national identity and human freedom.
#4273180 in eBooks 1997-09-01 1997-09-01File Name: B00KYS4O2S
Review
1 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Mixed thoughts about bookBy Captain PixelsFor years I have followed with great anticipation the creative contributions that Mr. Chiang made to the Star Wars second trilogy. As a conceptual artist; he is one of the best out there. As a book illustrator he has a ways to go. I tend to agree with some of the other reviews in that the illustrations in this book look too much like Star Wars characters; especially the robots (and this book is all about robots!). I was hoping to see some fresh ideas; some new worlds; new characters; but unfortunately the illustrations for this book lack the imagination that Mr Chiang displayed while working for George Lucas. While the imagery is well executed; some of illustrations themselves seemed out of place with the story and some seem unfinished--As if Mr Chiang simply ran out of time or motivation....As far as the writing of the book is concerned; I am not familiar with Mr. Cards other writings; but I found his writing style to be often abrupt; almost as if trying to rush to tell the story. Some key aspects of the story were not given enough time to develop; sometimes spending little more than a paragraph to transition important parts of the story. Lastly; the end of the story is; well; very disappointing in my opinion (I forced myself to read the whole book).If you are a fan of conceptual art in general or of Mr. Chiangs artwork; you might find some of the imagery appealing; but beyond that the book is not worth the list price of $35. If you are curious about the book; buy a used copy.1 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Great ReadBy noneofyourbusinessI absolutely loved this book. It came used and in great condition. Its a great read and the illustration is beautiful.5 of 7 people found the following review helpful. This is a great book!By Richard SmithI want to create a work of literary art just like this. I truly enjoyed reading the story and having it intertwined with the original artwork.