37 pages • 1 hour read
Neil SimonLost In Yonkers
Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1991A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Essay Topics
Several of the characters have physical or intellectual disabilities or illnesses. Discuss the symbolic significance of these conditions in relation to the work’s themes.
How does Eddie’s letter contextualize the boys’ experiences with Grandma? Why does the play stage these letters in voice-over (rather than, for example, having the boys read them aloud)?
Eddie at one point praises the US for taking in immigrants and refugees from various countries, implying that this makes America’s cause in WWII a noble one. Does the play support this viewpoint? Explain why or why not, citing evidence from the text.
How does Bella’s optimism contrast with the attitudes of the other characters?
Lost in Yonkers begins shortly after the death of Arty and Jay’s mother. What is the effect of this? How does her absence shape the play?
As a play, Lost in Yonkers relies heavily on dialogue for characterization. Compare and contrast the way two characters speak. What features of their dialogue contribute to their characterization?
As a play, Lost in Yonkers relies heavily on dialogue for characterization. Compare and contrast the way two characters speak. What features of their dialogue contribute to their characterization?
What is the significance of the play’s title? How does it relate to the play’s themes or characters?
How would you describe the mood of the play’s ending? What is the effect of this, and how does it influence your understanding of the play as a whole?
Related Titles
By Neil Simon
