Plot Summary

Absurd Person Singular

Sir Alan Ayckbourn
Guide cover placeholder

Absurd Person Singular

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1972

Book Brief

Sir Alan Ayckbourn

Absurd Person Singular

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1972
Book Details
Pages

106

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

England • 1970s

Publication Year

1972

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

Absurd Person Singular by Sir Alan Ayckbourn follows the changing fortunes of three married couples—Sidney and Jane, Geoffrey and Eva, and Ronald and Marion. Over the course of three consecutive Christmas Eve celebrations, held each year at a different couple's home, the play explores themes of materialism, gender roles, true wealth, and middle-class struggles. Topics include depression and suicide attempts.

Humorous

Dark

Unnerving

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Recent reviews of Sir Alan Ayckbourn's Absurd Person Singular highlight its sharp wit and incisive commentary on social aspirations and personal relationships. Critics praise its clever structure and dark humor but note that its period-specific references may not resonate with all modern audiences. Nevertheless, it remains a compelling, character-driven exploration of societal norms.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Absurd Person Singular?

Readers who enjoy Sir Alan Ayckbourn's Absurd Person Singular will appreciate dark comedy, satirical undertones, and sharp social commentary. Comparable to works like Michael Frayn's Noises Off and Neil Simon's Plaza Suite, this play appeals to those who find humor in the complexities of middle-class life and human foibles.

Book Details
Pages

106

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

England • 1970s

Publication Year

1972

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Buy This Book

We’re just getting started

Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!