Survival

Ideas

Quotes

Grandma

What is the character's philosophy regarding survival?

Survival is the most important thing.

Does their approach to survival change throughout the play?

Towards the end of the play, she is confronted about her beliefs and behaviours, forced to allow people with more freedom. Art and Jay likely provide her with a reason to care for people again and despite the cold exterior, it is seen that she makes some improvement

What does the audience learn about survival from this character?

Survival is important, but it can be good to just enjoy life rather than becoming bitter, cold, closed off and afraid

• "It's not so important dat you hate me, Artur... It's only important dat you live."

• "Everything hurts. Whatever it is you get good in life, you also lose something... I'm too old to forget it"

Bella

What is the character's philosophy regarding survival?

Not as important as enjoying life. But she had to survive through Grandma to gain independence so that she could enjoy her life more. She has survived a lot living with Grandma and the hostility around her regarding her learning disabilities and incapability.

Does their approach to survival change throughout the play?

She realises that to survive outside of life with Grandma, she does not need a romantic partner, she just needs herself and her determination.

What does the audience learn about survival from this character?

You need to take control of your own life with determination and drive.

• "This is our secret now, all right? ...A sacred secret. Say it, the both of you."

Arty and Jay

What is the character's philosophy regarding survival?

They are trying to survive the hostile environment they are living in with Grandma. They wish to help their father survive with money, resources, and connections

Does their approach to survival change throughout the play?

They find that there is a lot of effort put into trying to survive, and sometimes the most obvious pathways are not always the best ways, such as following Louie in the Mafia

What does the audience learn about survival from this character?

• "God, I wish there was some way we could make some money. Not 'kid' money. I mean real money."