Talley's Folly
Talley's Folly
Book Brief
64
Play • Fiction
Missouri • 1940s
1979
Adult
14-18 years
NP
Super Short Summary
Talley's Folly is a romantic comedy by Lanford Wilson, set in a rundown Victorian-style boathouse in Missouri during 1944. The play focuses on Matt Friedman, an idealistic Jewish accountant, and Sally Talley, a reticent nurse, as they navigate their feelings for each other over one act without set changes. Matt's perseverance and Sally's hesitations drive the narrative, which unfolds through monologues and personal revelations.
Romantic
Bittersweet
Hopeful
Heartwarming
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
493 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Reviews for Talley's Folly by Lanford Wilson highlight its poignant and lyrical dialogue, with critics praising the heartfelt performances and the chemistry between characters. However, some found the pacing slow, which detracts from the narrative's impact. Overall, the play's exploration of connection and love during wartime resonates deeply.
Who Should Read Talley's Folly?
A reader who enjoys Talley’s Folly by Lanford Wilson is likely a fan of character-driven narratives with emotional depth, much like Our Town by Thornton Wilder or The Glass Menagerie by Tennessee Williams. They appreciate nuanced dialogue, intimate settings, and themes of love and redemption.
493 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Talley's Folly won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1980, highlighting its critical acclaim and significance in American theater.
The play is part of Lanford Wilson's "Talley Trilogy," which also includes Fifth of July and Talley & Son, exploring different aspects of the Talley family's dynamics.
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Uniquely structured, Talley's Folly unfolds in real-time over 97 minutes, emphasizing its focus on the characters' immediate emotions and interactions.
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64
Play • Fiction
Missouri • 1940s
1979
Adult
14-18 years
NP
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