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43 pages 1 hour read

Seven Guitars

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1995

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Book Brief

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August Wilson

Seven Guitars

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1995
Book Details
Pages

128

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania • 1940s

Publication Year

1995

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Seven Guitars by August Wilson, set in 1947 Pittsburgh, follows five characters reflecting on the life of jazz musician Floyd Barton who dreams of returning to Chicago for a recording opportunity. The play shifts back to show Floyd's struggles, including conflicts with his fiancée Vera and the challenges he faces in reclaiming his pawned guitar. As his friends and fellow musicians grapple with their own aspirations and problems, tensions rise, leading to an unexpected and tragic conclusion.

Melancholic

Gritty

Emotional

Dark

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.3

1,473 ratings

71%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

August Wilson's Seven Guitars is widely praised for its rich character development and its authentic portrayal of African American life in the 1940s. The dialogue and period-specific details are highlights, while some critics find the pacing slow and the narrative occasionally disjointed. Overall, it’s a powerful exploration of dreams and disappointments within a tight-knit community.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Seven Guitars?

Readers who enjoy Seven Guitars by August Wilson often appreciate rich, character-driven narratives exploring African American life. Similar to fans of Alice Walker's The Color Purple and Lorraine Hansberry's A Raisin in the Sun, they value historical context, vibrant dialogue, and deep emotional resonance.

4.3

1,473 ratings

71%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Character List

Floyd Barton

A thirty-five-year-old jazz musician who recorded a hit song and is eager to return to Chicago to advance his career. He is charismatic yet struggles with personal flaws.

A pragmatic and strong-willed woman in her mid-forties, who owns the apartment building where the play is set. She is known for her skepticism and provides guidance to others.

A twenty-seven-year-old woman who was deeply affected by her past relationship with Floyd. She is cautious about rekindling their romance but remains hopeful about love.

A fifty-nine-year-old man grappling with complex ideas of racial heritage and power. He harbors dreams of reclaiming a lost legacy.

A harmonica player who recorded with Floyd and is cautious about the risks associated with pursuing fame. He values personal principles over ambition.

A drummer who is part of Floyd's musical ensemble with a relaxed attitude towards success. He is more interested in personal enjoyment and the social aspects of his travel.

Louise’s twenty-five-year-old niece, arriving from Alabama with a pragmatic outlook on relationships. She is accustomed to the challenges of romantic attention.

Book Details
Pages

128

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania • 1940s

Publication Year

1995

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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