Philadelphia, Here I Come!
Philadelphia, Here I Come!
Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1994
Book Brief
Beta110
Play • Fiction
Ballybeg, Ireland • 1960s
1994
Adult
14-18 years
Super Short Summary
Philadelphia, Here I Come! by Brian Friel is a play focusing on a young man named Gar O'Donnell as he prepares to leave his hometown in Ireland for a new life in America. The narrative explores Gar's internal struggles and relationships, revealing the complexities of his emotions, memories, and interactions with his family and friends.
Melancholic
Nostalgic
Bittersweet
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
2,359 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Philadelphia, Here I Come! by Brian Friel is celebrated for its poignant portrayal of emigration and personal conflict. Praised for its innovative dual-character technique, the play explores internal vs. external struggles effectively. However, some critiques point to its period-specific context losing resonance with modern audiences. Overall, it's a compelling, if slightly dated, work.
Who Should Read Philadelphia, Here I Come!?
A fan of Philadelphia, Here I Come! by Brian Friel likely appreciates character-driven narratives exploring identity and emigration. Similar to readers of Dubliners by James Joyce or A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man, they enjoy introspective tales set against Irish backdrops, blending humor and poignancy.
2,359 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
110
Play • Fiction
Ballybeg, Ireland • 1960s
1994
Adult
14-18 years
We’re just getting started
Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!