The name Lucky as a METAPHOR Incidentally, the most challenging role Ive played as an actor on stage since 1987 as a fledging in secondary school, is in my estimation the character called Lucky in Samuel Becketts WAITING FOR GODOT. An intriguing drama of the absurd genre. It was directed on that occasion by Yibo Koko as his final year directing project. It was his first degree at the University of Port Harcourt. Her supervisor was the late Prof. Caroll Dawes, who described the character of Lucky as representative of the dumb paralysis of an oppressed people. However, this analyst gave a profound, intelligent and exhaustive character analysis when he wrote; Lucky is presented more like a clown than a person; he is a dog doing tricks for his master, stripped of dignity and autonomy. He is not only bound by rope to his master, he is put on display to think and dance at Pozzos will. His very name mocks the misfortune that is his life. His constant carrying of baggage and never putting it down symbolizes the ample burden resting on his soul. He carries it willingly and wholeheartedly. Abuses like hog, pig etc. have little effect on him. Like a dog, he carries the whip to his master, and takes his abuse unquestioningly. All these inhuman treatments meted out to him do not provoke in him any retaliation. Lucky does not like strangers, and is very much averse to their help and compassion. He is a humble slave to Pozzo, in total submission to his masters will and pleasure. The wound on his neck and the mistreatment do nothing to dilute his faithfulness. Lucky is incomprehensible in Act I, mute in Act II. If Pozzo represents fallen greatness, Lucky must represent weakness and foolishness. He thinks but possesses no reason; he dances but possesses no grace. He is an animal, trained to react to his master. When Pozzo is incapacitated, Lucky leads him around, but it seems clear by the way they stumble off that the guidance is awkward and without ease. That is not just apt, it is equally relevant, fresh and topical. It is about 17 years now, but somethings are happening now that stir up the feeling of nostalgia. Whereas, I could be very expressive, assertive and loquacious in the opinion of some, lately Im learning that silence cannot be quoted. So, if my silence like my assertions offend you. This explains it. But a critical perspective into this lucky character in relation to the entire script, unearth a lot about our political space. Beckett was (is) a prophet who explored dramaturgy as a vehicle to speak to Nigeria? So, if you suddenly find me silent; I may be in character as lucky. -Don Kester...
Posted on: Sat, 26 Oct 2013 12:18:39 +0000
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