CHAPTER II

WHAT IS A PLAY?

The Algebraic Formula of a play is :

(A) A basic emotion, or an element in or of a basic
emotion, constituting the theme; plus
(B) Personified by character; plus
(C) Motivated through:
1. Crucible,
2. Conflict,
3. Complication andVor intrigue to ultimate
4. Crisis and
5. Climax; plus
(D) Progressed by narrative, plot or story; plus
(E) Compartmented by derivative situations; plus
(F) Dressed up by incidental detailed construction;
plus
(G) The underlying idea orientated through its
constituent elements as dramaturgically expressed ; plus
(H) Articulated by words; plus
(I) Imagined with artistry —
Equals "X"— A PLAY.
In discussing this Formula the writer, in order to
avoid repetition, will use the phrase "a basic emotion,"
intending to include either a basic emotion or "an ele
ment in or of a basic emotion."
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