The Influence of Tennessee Williams

<p> The author of <I>A Streetcar Named Desire</I> and <I>Cat on a Hot Tin Roof</I> was never shy about drawing on his personal and family drama for stage material. This collection of 15 essays examines how Williams's confessional style and subject matter in turn influenced a diverse group of American playwrights over the past six decades.</p><p> Critical comparisons with William Inge Edward Albee Neil Simon David Mamet Beth Henley Christopher Durang Tony Kushner and others reveal the complexity of his influence. A special feature of this collection is its emphasis on how Williams was received by African American dramatists including Lorraine Hansberry August Wilson Adrienne Kennedy and Suzan-Lori Parks. The collection ends with an original interview with Edward Albee on why and how Williams influenced him.</p>