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"Linnell shows that the history of dramatic forms is a history of the emotions that shape our lives and societies, and this makes his study a vital contribution to the field of theatre studies, especially to models of dramaturgy that question the separa-tion of form from emotion."—Theatre History Studies
“Jim Linnell has discovered and shaped concepts and images that illuminate the mysteries of creative work for the stage in a new way. His book will enrich the practice of anyone trying to write for the theater, or engage with any art that flows from the emotional depths of human beings. His book is flush with examples, ideas, and (extremely valuable for me) his own personal experience as a writer and teacher. Terrific stuff—intense, with a great seriousness to it, and a hard-earned wisdom.”—Len Jenkin, Playwright and Professor of Dramatic Writing, New York University
“This is a deeply important book for playwrights grappling with craft, dramaturgs hoping to unlock the secrets of dramatic structure, and audience members emotionally engaged in the experience of live performance.”—Suzan Zeder, head of playwriting and directing, University of Texas at Austin
“Jim Linnell's passionate, provocative book restores the primacy of emotion–not theory–to discussions of the writer's craft. This is a text both aspiring and veteran dramatists in all media can turn to again and again for guidance and reinforcement.”—Kirk Ellis, Writer/Co-Executive Producer, John Adams
“This is a very personal and powerful story of one man's quest to figure out how theater works in our time. His readings of specific texts are thoughtful and detailed, and clearly have been seriously considered. His originality lies in the depth of his commitment to his notion of emotional form. Linnell has lived an interesting life and done a lot of things. Consequently his ideas on the theater have gone through an extensive metamorphosis. The wisdom is real, has been earned. His is a unique voice in our time.”—Mac Wellman, playwright