The Ride Down Mt. Morgan: Love's Unexpected Journey: A Literary Analysis of Lyman Felt and Bessie's Late-Life Romance - Arthur Miller

American literature essay. Literary analysis of works and characters - Sykalo Evgen 2023

The Ride Down Mt. Morgan: Love's Unexpected Journey: A Literary Analysis of Lyman Felt and Bessie's Late-Life Romance
Arthur Miller

The Ride Down Mt. Morgan by Arthur Miller is a moving depiction of the enduring power of love, which blossoms unexpectedly in the twilight years of two seemingly dissimilar persons. The drama examines the complicated issues of loneliness, second chances, and the transformational power of human connection via the unexpected romance between Bessie, a lively and upbeat widow, and Lyman Felt, a harsh and reclusive widower.

Two Alone Souls:

Despite living separate lives, Lyman and Bessie are brought together by coincidence. Lyman has isolated himself from the outside world due of his son's tense relationship and the pain surrounding the death of his late wife. Bessie struggles with the emptiness of her life following her husband's death, despite her apparent positivity.

Miller does a fantastic job depicting their early awkwardness and cautious moves in the direction of a relationship. Their vulnerable and funny exchanges show how lonely they each are and how much they long for company. They have to face their own fears and painful previous experiences as they make their way through the uncharted realm of late-life love.

The Unexpected Bloom of Love:

Despite having dissimilar personalities and upbringings, Lyman and Bessie come to share a deep bond. They talk about their regrets, anxieties, and dreams in one other's company and find comfort in it. Their love is powered by a profound understanding and acceptance of one other's shortcomings and vulnerabilities rather than being a flashy romance.

The play does a wonderful job of capturing the warmth and awkwardness of their developing passion. Their timid touches, nervous giggles, and straightforward times of company reveal a great deal about the depth of their emotional connection. They finally discover the acceptance and sense of belonging they had long sought in one other.

Retries and Metamorphosis:

The relationship between Lyman and Bessie is proof that happiness and love can exist at any age. Their late-life romance subverts conventional wisdom regarding aging and love. Miller highlights the ability of people to develop and evolve, even in their later years, via their tales.

The transformational power of love is also explored in the drama. Lyman starts to soften his tough attitude and embrace life with a fresh sense of happiness after being influenced by Bessie. He makes amends with his son, welcomes fresh experiences, and rediscovers the beauty of his surroundings.

Taking on the Certain:

The realization of their impending death, however, tempers their newly discovered contentment. Bessie and Lyman both have health issues that will likely affect them in the future. The drama addresses death's inevitable conclusion without turning emotional. Rather, it highlights how important it is to live completely in the present and treasure every moment that is fleeting.

The Lasting Legacy of Love:

The Ride Down Mount Morgan ultimately honors the eternal power of love despite its melancholy conclusion. Despite being brief, Lyman and Bessie's romance had a lasting effect on both of their lives. They tell each other that it is never too late to love and be loved as they find comfort and delight in each other's company.

Other Things to Think About

The play is both joyful and thought-provoking since it uses wit and humor to counterbalance its poignant themes.
Lyman and Bessie's characters are likable and nuanced, enabling viewers to identify with their unique paths and common experiences.
A reminder that love may flourish at any stage of life and in unexpected locations is provided by The Ride Down Mount Morgan. It inspires us to seize fresh opportunities and discover happiness and purpose despite uncertainty.
In summary:

The Ride Down Mt. Morgan by Arthur Miller is a classic and endearing tale of love, grief, and second chances. The play honors the transformative potential of love and the enduring strength of human connection, even in our latter years, via the moving journey of Lyman and Bessie. It serves as a reminder that we should never undervalue our own ability to develop and adapt as well as the happiness that comes with allowing love into our lives.