Tennessee Williams research
Tennessee Williams was an American playwright, most famous for ‘A cat on a hot tin
roof’ and ‘A streetcar named desire’. Williams’ is known to have experienced a
burdensome upbringing, which is reflected in his works.
Moreover, the Williams household throughout Tennessee’s childhood was said to be
troubled due to the fact that his parents were resentful of one another. Potentially
due to his father’s affinity towards gambling and drinking, traits which later
manifested within Williams’ life.
The problematic nature of Blanche Dubois - specifically her experiences with
alcoholism - is reminiscent of William’s struggle regarding addiction to drugs and
alcohol. It is reported that this addiction tragically led to his death, as his ability to
swallow was impaired, causing Williams to suffocate.
Additionally, Blanche’s volatile behaviour may be representative of the mannerisms
of Williams’ sister, Rose, who resided within mental institutions for the majority of her
life, receiving treatment for various conditions. This is emphasised when Blanche is
eventually admitted to a mental institution, solidifying the connection between
Williams’ character and muse.
The city of New Orleans heavily influenced both Williams’ work and life, thus
incentivising the setting of A Streetcar named desire. His editor, Thomas Keith, has
stated that New Orleans ‘changed his entire life’, therefore equally impacting works
that were not set in the vibrant city through the ‘spirit’ exhibited.