Philidelphia, Here I Come!: Why does Gar have to leave Ireland? - page 5
Keywords: Philidelphia, Here I Come! Gar Ireland Brian Friel Public Private
By roshooo on 10/06/2010
Level: GCSE Key Stage 4 (Years 10-11)
Page Number: 5 of 5 pages: 1 2 3 4 5
America represented freedom and liberty. It was a land of opportunity and a way to escape the strict, boring routine of the Irish lifestyle. Most people romanticized about America and believed that if they went there everything in their life would improve. They believed they would find new, amazing friends and partners, become wealthy and have a fine job and that their life would become everything they ever dreamed. Gar was no different. However, this fantasy was never going to become a reality. Gar believed moving to America would gain him instant popularity with the American women, ‘and then to my apartment – ’ and he had preconceived ideas about what America was like, ‘A malted mild at the corner drug store? A movie at the downtown drive-in?’ Of course, this was delusional, even as Ben said when talking about America, ‘It’s just another place to live.’ Even Friel’s presentation of the Sweeneys adds to the harsh realization that life doesn’t get better just by moving, Lizzy is still lonely and his portrayal of Lizzy is very ‘typical American’, she is loud and boisterous. Despite being told otherwise, Gar does not listen and continues to visualize his extravagant life in America when he leaves.
Gar battles with himself during his decision making about leaving. He is confused but he feels like his only option is to leave Ballybeg. He has a combination of reasons to leave, the American Dream, the failed relationships Gar has experienced, the negative environment in Ballybeg and his desire to be loved, even if it is by someone as rowdy as Lizzy. After Gar’s final experience with SB, where SB tries to remember a special time him and Gar both shared together, Gar finds it very difficult to leave. He is in turmoil during the entire play but gradually comes to the realization that if he doesn’t leave now, nothing will change. The conflict in the play is heart-breaking but his final decision seems like it truly is the best option.
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