Clifford Odets

Clifford Odets was an American playwright, screenwriter, and director prominent in the 1930s. He was known for his socially conscious plays and was a leading figure in the Group Theatre, which was known for its strong emphasis on realism and ensemble acting. Odets' notable works include 'Waiting for Lefty', 'Awake and Sing!', and 'Golden Boy'. His plays often addressed issues of social injustice and economic hardship, reflecting the struggles of the working class during the Great Depression.

Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. Waiting For Lefty

    Cover of 'Waiting For Lefty' by Clifford Odets

    This play is a powerful and emotionally charged piece of American agitprop theater that centers on the struggles of taxi drivers in the 1930s facing exploitative working conditions. Through a series of vignettes and monologues, it delves into the lives of individual workers, revealing their personal hardships and the impact of broader social injustices. The narrative builds towards a climactic union meeting where the characters debate whether to strike against their oppressive bosses. The play is renowned for its leftist political stance and its call to collective action, encapsulating the spirit of working-class resistance and solidarity during a time of economic turmoil.

    The 2765th Greatest Book of All Time

  2. 2. Awake And Sing!

    Cover of 'Awake And Sing!' by Clifford Odets

    The play is a poignant exploration of the Berger family's struggles during the Great Depression in the Bronx, New York. It centers around Bessie Berger, a matriarch determined to keep her family afloat amidst economic hardships, conflicting ideals, and the pursuit of the American Dream. Through the interwoven lives of her idealistic son Ralph, disillusioned husband Myron, and rebellious daughter Hennie, the narrative delves into themes of hope, disillusionment, and the quest for a better life. The characters grapple with their individual aspirations and the harsh realities of their circumstances, revealing the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

    The 5697th Greatest Book of All Time