Robert Anderson

Franklin Library Robert Anderson books

Getting Up and Going Home - Limited First Edition Society - 1978

 

 

 

Writer Robert Anderson

Robert Anderson was an American playwright and screenwriter. Born on April 28, 1917, in New York City, Anderson gained recognition for his contributions to the world of theater and film. His work often explored complex human relationships and the intricacies of family dynamics.

Getting Up and Going Home is one of Anderson's notable plays, dealing with themes of love, loss, and self-discovery. Published in 1978, the play reflects Anderson's keen understanding of the human condition and his ability to delve into the emotional depths of his characters.

Anderson's career extended beyond the realm of theater, as he also made a significant impact in Hollywood as a screenwriter. One of his most famous works is the screenplay for the film The Nun's Story (1959), which starred Audrey Hepburn and was based on Kathryn Hulme's novel. Throughout his career, Robert Anderson received various accolades for his contributions to the arts. His works continue to be studied and performed, leaving a lasting imprint on American theater and literature. Robert Anderson passed away on February 9, 2009, but his legacy endures through the enduring impact of his plays and screenplays.

Getting Up and Going Home

Getting Up and Going Home, penned in 1978, offers readers a poignant exploration of identity, family, and the search for meaning in a world marked by disillusionment and uncertainty. As a renowned playwright and novelist, Anderson brings his keen insight into human psychology and emotion to bear in this introspective work, crafting a narrative that resonates with readers on a deeply personal level. Set against the backdrop of 1970s New York City, Getting Up and Going Home follows the story of Charlie Orr, a successful advertising executive who finds himself at a crossroads in his life. Struggling with the dissolution of his marriage and the emptiness of his professional pursuits, Charlie embarks on a journey of self-discovery that takes him from the bustling streets of Manhattan to the quiet shores of Martha's Vineyard.

As Charlie confronts the ghosts of his past and grapples with the complexities of his present, Anderson delves into themes of regret, forgiveness, and the search for redemption. Through his nuanced portrayal of Charlie's relationships with his family, friends, and lovers, Anderson offers readers a glimpse into the human heart, exploring the ways in which we are shaped by our experiences and the choices we make. With its evocative prose and poignant storytelling, Getting Up and Going Home captures the zeitgeist of its era while speaking to timeless truths about the human condition. Anderson's keen observations and empathetic portrayal of his characters elevate the novel beyond mere fiction, imbuing it with a sense of authenticity and emotional depth that lingers long after the final page is turned.

As readers accompany Charlie on his journey of self-discovery, they are reminded of the transformative power of introspection and the importance of embracing life's uncertainties with courage and resilience. "Getting Up and Going Home" stands as a testament to Anderson's skill as a storyteller and his ability to illuminate the hidden depths of the human soul, offering readers a moving and unforgettable literary experience.