Write about how he challenges assumptions about the role of imagination in literature and theatre in Company and Not I.

Samuel Beckett, Company and Selected Plays (Dr C. Gordon)

A voice comes to one in the dark. Imagine.
(Company)
… she did not know … what position she was in … imagine! … what position she was in! . . whether standing … or sitting … but the brain– … what?… kneeling? … yes … whether standing … or sitting … or kneeling … but the brain– … what? … lying? … yes … whether standing … or sitting … or kneeling … or lying …
(Not I)
Beckett uses the word ‘imagine’ and variations on it throughout Company and Not I, but its meaning and significance do not remain constant across all these texts, opening it up to myriad interpretations. Closely analyze how Beckett uses and reuses the word and, drawing on a range of carefully chosen examples, write about how he challenges assumptions about the role of imagination in literature and theatre in Company and Not I.
NOTE: The first sentence of Company generates (at least) three possible readings if read carefully. Read all your examples with attention to who is speaking, who is being spoken to, and the potential for ambiguity.

Last Completed Projects