Eugene Walter
The Easiest Way
Representative Plays by American Dramatists: 1856-1911
"The Easiest Way" by Eugene Walter is a drama written in the early 20th century, more precisely in the late 1900s. The play centers around Laura Murdock, a young woman navigating the complex and often sordid realities of theatrical life in New York City, as she engages in a tumultuous relationship with John Madison, a resourceful newspaper man. This work explores themes of ambition, desperation, and the intricacies of love intertwined with the harshness of one's past decisions. The opening of the play introduces us to Laura Murdock at a ranch in Colorado, where she interacts with Willard Brockton, a supportive friend from New York. Their dialogue reveals Laura's affection for John, an aspiring man she has feelings for, contrasting the financial security that Brockton offers. As the introduction unfolds, we sense a shift in Laura's aspirations; she is torn between the romantic notion of love represented by John and the material comfort Brockton can provide. Ultimately, Laura expresses a desire for genuine love, leading to an emotional conflict that sets the tone for her journey throughout the play. This interplay of relationships hints at deeper explorations of the sacrifices made in pursuit of passion versus the allure of stability, establishing the foundation for Laura's character development and the choices she must face ahead.