Booth Tarkington 
The Trysting Place: A Farce in One Act 

In Booth Tarkington’s The Trysting Place: A Farce in One Act, the reader is drawn into a witty and comedic story set in the context of early 20th-century American literature. The play unfolds with hilarious dialogue and farcical situations, showcasing Tarkington’s adeptness at satirizing society’s norms. The absurdity of the characters and their interactions adds to the light-hearted tone of the play, making it an entertaining read that captures the essence of comedic theater of its time. Tarkington’s clever use of language and stage directions enhances the reader’s experience of the play, offering a glimpse into the playwright’s unique style. The Trysting Place is a delightful piece of literature that serves as a testament to Tarkington’s talent in creating humorous and engaging works that stand the test of time.

About the author

Booth Tarkington, born Newton Booth Tarkington on July 29, 1869, in Indianapolis, Indiana, was a prolific American novelist and dramatist noted for his satirical and sometimes romanticized pictures of American Midwestern life. Tarkington attended both Purdue University and Princeton University, where he began to craft his literary skills. He first garnered public and critical acclaim with his novel ‘The Gentleman from Indiana’ (1899). Throughout his career, Tarkington penned numerous novels, including ‘The Magnificent Ambersons’ (1918) and ‘Alice Adams’ (1921), both of which earned him Pulitzer Prizes for Fiction. His literary style is characterized by its narrative charm, keen social observation, and a sometimes whimsical or nostalgic tone, evident in works like ‘Penrod’ (1914) and ‘Seventeen’ (1916). Following the trend of expanding his repertoire, Tarkington also tried his hand in playwriting, which led to works such as ‘The Trysting Place: A Farce in One Act’ (1907), showcasing his flair for light-hearted and comedic storytelling. Tarkington’s contribution to American literature laid the groundwork for future explorations of the class and societal change, particularly within the backdrop of the rapidly modernizing early twentieth century. He passed away on May 19, 1946, leaving behind a legacy that still resonates in the corridors of American literary history.