Act 2 Scene 1

Compare this New Year’s Eve to previous ones. How and why is it different? In what ways are the characters trying to make the best of things? What does this scene tell us about the themes of tradition and change.

In the play, Summer of the Seventeenth Doll, this New Year’s Eve is different from the previous years. Nancy, one of the tenants in Olive’s home has married another man and has left Olive with two cane-cutters. Another lady, Pearl, a friend of Olives, has large shoes to step into. However, despite the fact Olive has tried her hardest for things not to change from previous years, the absence of Nancy has a toll on Roo and Barney. The group at the near hour of midnight, would have gone out and enjoyed the start of the New Year, however Pearl is quite comfortable “…ensconced in a chair, busy with a piece of knitting…” (P39). Barney suggests going down to the beach, as Pearl is quite comfortable, Olive suggests having a quiet New Year’s Eve. The tradition in the boarding house is two couples living together, however this has changed since Pearl has arrived. She doesn't seem to understand the life and relationship Olive and the cane-cutters have. Change does not seem to agree with the small group and tradition is better. The group is attempting to make things work, Roo and Olive and playing cards and Pearl is doing what she likes best. Barney is restless and tries to make the best of things especially when Bubba visits, however to no avail. This New Year’s Eve in the boarding house is different as tradition has changed and the characters are not following the custom set down for the last sixteen years.