Clifford Odets : playwright-poet (2nd ed)

This study seeks to take a different approach to the analysis of Clifford Odets and his plays.

Rather than focusing on the biographical and political factors surrounding his works, Hal Cantor makes a commitment to the playwright himself, amidst the opinions of other critics.

Cantor emphasizes the richness of language and dramatic excitement of Odets' plays.

He looks at the plays as a single unit. While he puts some emphasis on biographical material, the major focus of the study is on the themes, characters and language that have made Odets' plays so unique.

Included is a reprint of "The Sum and Substance", the original interview with Odets conducted by the late Herman Harvey.

Cantor also brings to light some of the more recent productions of Odets' plays and includes an interview he conducted with Joanne Woodward, demonstrating how Odets' work has become a major part of American theatre.

This second edition contains an expanded final chapter, to add a few topics that Cantor sees as important to the life of the playwright.