Introduction
Welcome to the whimsical world of “You Can’t Take It With You”! 📖✨ Crafted by the brilliant minds of Moss Hart and George S. Kaufman in the mid-1930s, this play stands as a sparkling gem in the treasure trove of American theater. Let’s dive into the background of this classic, its creators, and the genre it so wonderfully encapsulates.
Moss Hart, born in 1904 in New York City, was a prominent figure in American theater, both as a playwright and a director. Teaming up with George S. Kaufman, a titan in his own right, they created several hits, but “You Can’t Take It With You” is arguably the pinnacle of their collaboration. It premiered on Broadway in 1936, capturing the hearts of many with its humor, warmth, and eccentric characters, and went on to win the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1937.
Set against the backdrop of an ever-evolving America, the play cleverly navigates the contrasting worlds of a quirky, unconventional family and the stiff, regimented society of the time. Its genre is a delightful mix of comedy and farce, interspersed with poignant, thought-provoking moments. This blend not only entertained audiences but also delivered subtle critiques of societal norms and the pursuit of happiness.
So, whether you’re a theater aficionado or a curious newcomer, prepare to be charmed by the zany adventures and heartfelt moments of “You Can’t Take It With You.” đźŽđź’– Let’s embark on this journey together, exploring the timeless appeal of Hart and Kaufman’s masterpiece.
Plot Summary
“You Can’t Take It With You” unfolds in the home of the Sycamores, a lovably eccentric family living in New York City during the 1930s. At its heart, the play is a celebration of individuality, family, and the joy of living life to its fullest. Let’s walk through the main events, from the exposition to the resolution, to get a sense of this delightful narrative.
Exposition — The play introduces us to the Sycamore family, an eclectic group who live by their own rules, pursuing happiness and hobbies rather than societal expectations. Grandpa Vanderhof, the patriarch, collects snakes and has never paid his income tax. Penny writes plays because a typewriter was delivered to their home by mistake, while her husband, Paul, makes fireworks in the basement with the help of Mr. De Pinna, a former ice man who came to the house eight years ago and never left.
Rising Action — The conflict arises when Alice Sycamore, the most “normal” family member, falls in love with her boss’s son, Tony Kirby. As Alice and Tony’s relationship grows, she worries about the stark differences between their families. The Kirbys are wealthy, conservative, and proper, everything the Sycamores are not. Alice agrees to marry Tony but insists that their families meet first.
Climax — The meeting between the families is a disaster. Scheduled for the wrong night, the Kirbys arrive at the Sycamore home while everyone is in the midst of their various eccentric activities. The evening spirals out of control, ending with the unexpected arrival of the authorities, who arrest everyone present due to the illegal fireworks and the collection of unregistered snakes.
Falling Action — In the chaos of the jail visit, Tony’s father, Mr. Kirby, is forced to reconsider his priorities in life. He realizes the depth of his unhappiness in his pursuit of wealth and status. Meanwhile, Alice decides to leave Tony, believing their worlds are too different to merge.
Resolution — The play resolves with Tony and his father coming to terms with what truly matters in life: happiness, not wealth or societal approval. Mr. Kirby reconciles with his son and gives his blessing to the marriage, recognizing the value in the Sycamores’ joyous approach to life. Grandpa Vanderhof delivers a heartwarming speech about the importance of following one’s dreams, leading to a harmonious ending that celebrates the unity of these two contrasting families.
Through a series of humorous and heartwarming events, “You Can’t Take It With You” champions the idea that life’s true value isn’t found in material wealth but in the joy of living freely and loving well.
Character Analysis
In “You Can’t Take It With You,” the characters are as unique and colorful as a patchwork quilt, each bringing their own quirks, dreams, and philosophies to the vibrant tapestry of the play. Here’s a closer look at the main characters:
- Grandpa Martin Vanderhof — A man who chose to leave the rat race 35 years ago, Grandpa is the philosophical heart of the Sycamore family. His outlook on life, centered around happiness and freedom from societal constraints, influences everyone around him. He enjoys attending commencements, collecting stamps, and never misses an opportunity to question the importance of income tax.
- Penny Sycamore — The whimsical matriarch of the Sycamore household, Penny took up playwriting because a typewriter was mistakenly delivered to her home. Her spontaneous and creative spirit represents the play’s endorsement of pursuing one’s passions, no matter how unconventional.
- Paul Sycamore — Penny’s husband and the family’s fireworks enthusiast, Paul spends most of his time in the basement crafting fireworks with Mr. De Pinna. His dedication to his hobby underscores the play’s theme of joy in creativity and labor of love.
- Alice Sycamore — The most conventional member of the Sycamore clan, Alice is deeply in love with Tony Kirby. Her struggle to reconcile her family’s eccentricities with Tony’s conservative upbringing drives much of the play’s conflict and humor. Alice’s journey reflects the challenges of embracing one’s identity while navigating love and societal expectations.
- Tony Kirby — The son of a wealthy, conservative businessman, Tony falls in love with Alice and is fascinated by the Sycamores’ uninhibited way of life. His character arc from a man bound by societal norms to one who embraces individuality mirrors the play’s message of authentic living.
- Mr. Anthony W. Kirby — Tony’s father, a stern and successful businessman, represents the antithesis of the Sycamore family values. His eventual realization and acceptance of the Sycamores’ lifestyle symbolize the potential for change and understanding across social divides.
- Essie Carmichael — Penny’s ballet-dancing daughter, who makes candies to sell, represents the joy and innocence of pursuing one’s dreams, however impractical they may seem.
- Ed Carmichael — Essie’s husband, who prints messages of peace and freedom on candies and plays the xylophone, embodies the play’s celebration of individuality and creativity.
Here’s a summary of the character analysis in a table format:
| Character | Personality | Motivation | Development |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grandpa Vanderhof | Philosophical, carefree | To live a happy, unencumbered life | Remains steadfast in his beliefs, inspires others |
| Penny Sycamore | Whimsical, creative | To explore her artistic inclinations | Continues her artistic pursuits, supports her family |
| Paul Sycamore | Dedicated, content | To enjoy his hobby and family | Maintains his joyful approach to life |
| Alice Sycamore | Conventional, loving | To find harmony between her family and love | Reconciles her family’s quirks with her love life |
| Tony Kirby | Open-minded, affectionate | To marry Alice and embrace her family | Learns to value individuality over societal expectations |
| Mr. Anthony W. Kirby | Conservative, success-driven | To maintain his social status | Recognizes the value of happiness over material wealth |
| Essie Carmichael | Joyful, dreamy | To pursue her passion for dance | Continues to pursue her dreams with support from her family |
| Ed Carmichael | Creative, supportive | To support Essie and spread peace | Continues his creative pursuits, remains supportive |
This analysis shows how each character’s unique personality and motivations contribute to the play’s overarching themes of happiness, individuality, and the critique of societal expectations.
Themes and Symbols
“You Can’t Take It With You” is rich with themes and symbols that deepen the play’s message and enhance its comedic and dramatic elements. Let’s explore some of the major themes and symbols that stand out:
- The Pursuit of Happiness — Central to the narrative is the idea that happiness comes from living authentically and valuing personal fulfillment over societal expectations or material wealth. The Sycamore family embodies this theme, engaging in hobbies and pursuits purely for joy, in stark contrast to the Kirby family’s initial focus on status and financial success.
- Individuality vs. Conformity — The play celebrates the beauty of individuality and critiques the societal pressure to conform. Through the eccentric Sycamore family and the conventional Kirbys, Hart and Kaufman explore the tension between being true to oneself and fitting into societal norms, ultimately advocating for the former.
- Love and Family — The importance of love, both romantic and familial, is a driving force in the play. It challenges characters’ perceptions and leads to growth and understanding. Alice and Tony’s love story, set against the backdrop of their differing family dynamics, emphasizes that love can bridge divides and transform lives.
- Freedom and Oppression — Grandpa Vanderhof’s refusal to pay income tax and his speech to Mr. Kirby about the value of freedom over wealth highlight the theme of personal freedom versus societal oppression. The play suggests that true freedom lies in the ability to live according to one’s own values and desires.
Symbols
- Fireworks — In the play, fireworks symbolize the Sycamores’ zest for life and their creative spirit. The fireworks’ loud, unpredictable nature mirrors the family’s approach to living—vibrant, a bit chaotic, but full of joy and color.
- Snakes — Grandpa Vanderhof’s hobby of collecting snakes can be seen as a symbol of nonconformity. Just as snakes are often misunderstood and feared, the Sycamores, too, are seen as oddities within their community. Yet, they embrace their unique interests with pride.
- The Typewriter — Penny’s typewriter, which she received by mistake and led her to start writing plays, symbolizes the serendipity of finding one’s passion in unexpected places. It represents the idea that happiness and fulfillment can come from embracing life’s random opportunities.
- The Dance and Music — Essie’s constant dancing and Ed’s xylophone playing symbolize the joy and freedom of expression. These activities, seemingly pointless to outsiders, are vital expressions of the characters’ inner worlds and happiness.
Through these themes and symbols, “You Can’t Take It With You” delivers a heartwarming and thought-provoking commentary on the nature of happiness, the value of individuality, and the power of love and family to transcend societal barriers.
Style and Tone
The unique charm of “You Can’t Take It With You” by Moss Hart is significantly shaped by its distinctive writing style and tone, which contribute to the mood and atmosphere of the play. Let’s explore how these elements play out:
- Comedic Tone — The play is infused with a light-hearted, comedic tone that keeps the audience engaged and entertained. Hart’s sharp wit and clever dialogue spark laughter, even as the play delves into themes of societal norms, family dynamics, and personal freedoms. This humorous approach makes the play’s deeper messages more palatable and impactful.
- Whimsical Style — There’s a whimsical, almost fairy-tale quality to the way the Sycamore family lives, which is reflected in the play’s style. The characters pursue their passions with childlike enthusiasm, whether it’s making fireworks, writing plays, or dancing ballet. This whimsy is a stylistic choice that highlights the play’s celebration of individuality and joy.
- Poignant Moments — Amidst the comedy and whimsy, the play features moments of poignancy that add depth and emotion. Hart skillfully intersperses these moments, such as Grandpa Vanderhof’s reflections on life and happiness, which ground the play and resonate with the audience on a more personal level.
- Dialogues and Monologues — The play’s dialogue is fast-paced, witty, and filled with banter that reflects the characters’ personalities and relationships. Meanwhile, monologues, especially those by Grandpa Vanderhof, offer deeper insights into the characters’ philosophies and the play’s themes, serving as reflective pauses in the midst of chaos.
- Satirical Elements — Hart employs satire to critique societal norms and expectations, particularly through the contrast between the Sycamore and Kirby families. This satirical edge adds a layer of sophistication to the play, inviting the audience to question and reflect upon their own lives and values.
- Symbolic Use of Props and Settings — The play’s setting in the Sycamore home, cluttered with the various hobbies and projects of its inhabitants, serves as a visual metaphor for the family’s eclectic and liberated lifestyle. Props like the typewriter, snakes, and fireworks are used symbolically to enhance the thematic depth of the play.
In summary, the writing style and tone of “You Can’t Take It With You” blend comedy with moments of sincerity, whimsy with wisdom, creating a mood that is both uplifting and thought-provoking. Hart’s ability to balance these elements is a testament to his skill as a playwright, making the play a timeless piece that continues to delight and inspire audiences.
Literary Devices used in You Can’t Take it With You
In “You Can’t Take It With You,” Moss Hart (and co-writer George S. Kaufman) employ a variety of literary devices that enrich the play, adding layers of meaning, humor, and depth. Let’s explore the top 10 literary devices used:
- Irony — The contrast between what is expected to happen and what actually occurs is used frequently for comedic effect. For instance, the anticipated civilized meeting between the Sycamores and Kirbys turns chaotically comedic, highlighting societal differences.
- Satire — The play uses satire to critique societal norms and the pursuit of wealth over happiness. The Kirbys, who represent societal expectations of success, are portrayed as less happy than the eccentric Sycamores, who prioritize joy and individuality.
- Foreshadowing — Early mentions of the Sycamores’ unusual hobbies and Grandpa’s refusal to pay income tax hint at the conflicts and comedic situations that will arise when the Kirbys visit.
- Symbolism — Objects and activities in the play, like fireworks and snake collecting, symbolize larger themes of freedom, creativity, and nonconformity.
- Hyperbole — Exaggeration is used to amplify the characters’ quirks and the absurdity of certain situations, such as the extreme eccentricities of the Sycamore family members.
- Metaphor — The play itself acts as a metaphor for the ideal way to live life, suggesting that happiness comes from following one’s passions rather than adhering to societal expectations.
- Simile — Comparisons are made to humorously illustrate characters and situations, such as comparing the chaos of the Sycamore household to a carnival.
- Personification — At times, inanimate objects or concepts (like the justice system or societal norms) are given human qualities, especially in the characters’ dialogues, to critique or humorously bring them to life.
- Allusion — References are made to historical figures or societal norms of the time, providing context and depth to the characters’ beliefs and actions.
- Paradox — The play presents several paradoxical situations, such as the pursuit of happiness leading to unconventional living that actually brings greater joy and acceptance than traditional paths.
These literary devices play a crucial role in shaping the play’s narrative, enhancing its themes, and providing entertainment. Hart’s skillful use of these techniques contributes to the enduring appeal and literary merit of “You Can’t Take It With You.”
Literary Device Examples
Let’s delve into examples and explanations for each of the top 10 literary devices used in “You Can’t Take It With You.”
Irony
| Example | Explanation |
|---|---|
| The Kirbys, who pride themselves on propriety and order, end up in jail because of their unintended involvement with the Sycamores’ chaos. | This situation is ironic because the Kirbys’ attempts to maintain their dignity lead them directly into a scenario that is entirely undignified, highlighting the unpredictability of life and the futility of rigidly adhering to societal expectations. |
Satire
| Example | Explanation |
|---|---|
| The play’s portrayal of the IRS and government officials as petty and obsessed with trivial matters satirizes government bureaucracy and the societal emphasis on material wealth and status. | Through humorous exaggeration, the play criticizes the way society prioritizes wealth and societal status over individual happiness and freedom, suggesting these values are not only misguided but also ridiculed. |
Foreshadowing
| Example | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Grandpa’s discussions about the importance of living life to the fullest and his refusal to pay income tax hint at the play’s climax, where these themes come to a head. | This foreshadowing sets up the audience for the eventual confrontation between the Sycamores’ ideals and the external pressures from society, emphasizing the play’s thematic focus on the value of personal freedom and happiness. |
Symbolism
| Example | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Fireworks represent the Sycamores’ vibrant and unpredictable lifestyle, as well as the potential for beauty in chaos. | Just as fireworks are unexpected and spectacular, the Sycamores’ lives are filled with joy and surprise, symbolizing the beauty of living authentically and the spark of creativity and freedom. |
Hyperbole
| Example | Explanation |
|---|---|
| The Sycamores’ eccentric hobbies, such as snake collecting and creating fireworks, are exaggerated to comedic effect. | These exaggerations highlight the contrast between the Sycamores and the more conventional Kirbys, humorously critiquing societal norms about what constitutes a “proper” lifestyle. |
Metaphor
| Example | Explanation |
|---|---|
| The Sycamore household serves as a metaphor for a world where individuality and happiness are valued over conformity and material success. | This metaphorical representation encourages the audience to consider the value of nonconformity and the pursuit of personal joy as legitimate and fulfilling life choices. |
Simile
| Example | Explanation |
|---|---|
| The chaos in the Sycamore home is likened to a zoo, with various characters pursuing their unique hobbies in seemingly wild disarray. | This simile humorously captures the lively and unconventional atmosphere of the Sycamore household, contrasting it with the orderly and predictable nature of the Kirby family’s life. |
Personification
| Example | Explanation |
|---|---|
| The play personifies societal expectations as a character in their own right, looming over the characters and influencing their decisions. | This personification critiques the pressure to conform to societal norms, suggesting that these expectations are an active force in individuals’ lives, capable of dictating choices and stifling individuality. |
Allusion
| Example | Explanation |
|---|---|
| References to contemporary events and cultural figures of the 1930s place the characters’ struggles and ideologies within a broader societal context. | These allusions enrich the narrative, providing depth and historical context that connects the characters’ lives to the audience’s reality, enhancing the play’s thematic relevance. |
Paradox
| Example | Explanation |
|---|---|
| The Sycamores find greater happiness and fulfillment in their unconventional lifestyle than the Kirbys do in their adherence to societal norms, despite societal beliefs to the contrary. | This paradox challenges the conventional wisdom that success and happiness come from wealth and status, suggesting instead that true contentment is found in authenticity and personal freedom. |
Each of these literary devices adds a layer of complexity and humor to the play, enriching its themes and making “You Can’t Take It With You” a multifaceted and enduring work of art.
You Can’t Take it With You – FAQs
Q: What is the main theme of “You Can’t Take It With You”?
A: The main theme is the importance of individuality and pursuing happiness over conforming to societal expectations or accumulating wealth. The play advocates for a life lived in accordance with one’s own values and passions.
Q: Who wrote “You Can’t Take It With You”?
A: The play was written by Moss Hart and George S. Kaufman, a famed playwright duo known for their sharp wit and insightful commentary on American society.
Q: Why does Grandpa Vanderhof refuse to pay income tax?
A: Grandpa Vanderhof refuses to pay income tax as a form of rebellion against governmental authority and societal norms. He believes in living a life free from the constraints imposed by the government, which he views as interfering with personal freedom and happiness.
Q: How does the play end?
A: The play ends on a hopeful note, with the Kirby family coming to appreciate the Sycamore family’s way of life. Mr. Kirby, in particular, reevaluates his priorities, recognizing the value of happiness and individuality over wealth and societal status.
Q: What are some symbols used in the play, and what do they represent?
A: Symbols in the play include fireworks, representing the unpredictability and beauty of living authentically; snakes, symbolizing nonconformity; and the typewriter, symbolizing serendipitous discovery of one’s passions. These symbols underscore the play’s themes of individuality, creativity, and the joy of living.
Q: Can “You Can’t Take It With You” be considered a critique of the American Dream?
A: Yes, the play can be seen as a critique of the traditional American Dream, which often emphasizes wealth and upward mobility. Instead, it presents a version of the American Dream that values personal happiness, family, and the freedom to pursue one’s interests, regardless of societal expectations or financial success.
Q: Is “You Can’t Take It With You” still relevant today?
A: Absolutely! The play’s themes of individuality, the pursuit of happiness, and the critique of materialism and societal norms remain resonant with contemporary audiences. Its humor, warmth, and optimism continue to charm and inspire, making it a timeless piece.
Quiz
| Question | A | B | C | D |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| What is the primary setting of “You Can’t Take It With You”? | The Kirby mansion | A New York City apartment | The Sycamore home | A government office |
| Who refuses to pay income taxes, believing it against his principles? | Paul Sycamore | Mr. Kirby | Grandpa Vanderhof | Tony Kirby |
| What hobby does Penny pursue due to a mistakenly delivered typewriter? | Painting | Playwriting | Ballet dancing | Collecting stamps |
| Which character represents the societal expectation of success? | Essie Carmichael | Alice Sycamore | Grandpa Vanderhof | Mr. Anthony W. Kirby |
| What symbolizes the beauty of living authentically in the play? | A painting | A book | Fireworks | A dance recital |
| How does the play critique societal norms? | Through a murder mystery | By contrasting the Sycamores with the Kirbys | A political debate | A court trial |
| What does Grandpa Vanderhof enjoy collecting? | Coins | Snakes | Antique furniture | Books |
| What causes the meeting between the Sycamores and the Kirbys to go awry? | A power outage | An unexpected visit | A firework explosion | A misunderstanding |
| What ultimately convinces Mr. Kirby to accept the Sycamores’ way of life? | A legal agreement | A change in perspective on happiness | Financial loss | A marriage proposal |
| Which theme is NOT explicitly explored in “You Can’t Take It With You”? | The pursuit of happiness | Family dynamics | Technological advancement | Individuality vs. conformity |
This quiz is designed to test your comprehension of the play “You Can’t Take It With You,” focusing on its setting, characters, themes, and symbols.
Exercise
Identify the literary devices used in the following paragraph from “You Can’t Take It With You”:
“In the lively Sycamore household, where dreams flutter about like leaves in a whirlwind, Grandpa Vanderhof stands as a beacon of wisdom amidst the chaos. His words, often laced with humor and insight, illuminate the path for his unconventional family, guiding them with the gentle hand of experience. As fireworks burst in the background, a testament to the family’s boundless creativity and zest for life, the room fills with laughter and love, echoing the play’s central message: to live fully, one must embrace the quirks of existence with open arms.”
Answers:
- Metaphor: “dreams flutter about like leaves in a whirlwind” compares the family’s many aspirations and activities to leaves caught in a storm, suggesting their chaotic but vibrant nature.
- Simile: The comparison of Grandpa Vanderhof to a “beacon of wisdom” uses like or as to compare his guiding influence to a light guiding ships in the dark, illustrating his role within the family.
- Personification: “dreams flutter about” gives dreams the ability to flutter, attributing human-like movement to an abstract concept, emphasizing the presence of hope and aspiration within the household.
- Symbolism: “fireworks burst in the background” symbolizes the family’s creativity and passion, showing how their love for life and each other is as vibrant and spectacular as fireworks.
- Imagery: The vivid description of the scene—complete with visual (“fireworks burst”), auditory (“the room fills with laughter”), and conceptual (“beacon of wisdom”) elements—creates a vivid picture of the Sycamore household’s atmosphere.