Analysis of Twyla Thorpe's Dance "Young Man and Death&q
Analysis of Twyla Thorpe's Dance "Young Man and Death"
Young Man and Death is a dance that is very expressive. It is full of exaggerated movements, which have symbolic interpretations. It is quite simple to interpret. If one didn’t know the title of the dance the content could easily be identified. A male dancer performs a dance of desperation, jubilee and death. This dance is full of insight, exhibits perfection and is inexhaustible.
The content of the dance is a male/female relationship that has resulted in a breakup. The woman is leaving the man. Despair over a breakup can sometimes lead to actions of hopelessness. This principle is clearly seen by the movements throughout the dance when the woman rejects the man. It is also clearly seen when the man feels he has no other choice but to kill himself. This principle can be significant to others. It can make people aware of what may happen in a time of despair. They can identify their feelings of despair and seek help. Life does not have to end because of a rejection, but often it does. This dance brings out a social awareness to suicide.
The dance exhibits perfection. Every movement dramatizes the feelings of the dancers. When the male dancer realizes that the woman isn’t there, he seems upset and confused. The movements are quick and abrupt as he looks for her. When she enters the room he becomes jubilant. The movements become more graceful and high-spirited.
When she rejects him, the movements are quick and jagged. When he realizes what she wants him to do, the mood is somber. The movements in the dance are slow. Without saying a word the dance tells a tragic story. Young Man and Death is inexhaustible. I believe this work of art can stand the test of time. This dance was choreographed many years ago. Today in the year 2001, I can still appreciate it for the strong emotion pouring out of the dance. Death is something that we will always have to deal with. It is evident that this dance is about a broken relationship that leads to suicide.
Overall the dance is wonderful. Many times relationships end and people are left feeling lost...