How Far is Amanda Wingfield’s Obsession with the Past Responsible for the Doomed Present in The Glass Menagerie? 

Answer

How far is Amanda Wingfield’s obsession with the past responsible for the doomed present in The Glass Menagerie? 

Amanda Wingfield’s obsession with the past is a central theme in Tennessee Williams’ (1911-83) play, “The Glass Menagerie.” Her longing for the past and her inability to come to terms with the present are responsible for many of the problems faced by her family. It ultimately leads to a doomed present. Here are some specific points of discussion to illustrate this.

Amanda’s unrealistic expectations: Amanda’s priority to the past leads her to have unrealistic expectations for her children and their futures. She constantly reminds them of her past experiences and successes, expecting them to live up to her standards. For example, she wants her daughter, Laura, to be popular and successful like she was in her youth, even though Laura is introverted and struggles with anxiety. This puts pressure on Laura and causes her to withdraw further from the world, making her situation even more hopeless. Again, she cannot accept that her children are different from what she wants them to be. She cannot understand or connect with them. This is highlighted in this quote: 

Tom is not a practical boy… He’s not in the slightest bit like his father. He’s independent, and he’s a wanderer.

Laura’s isolation: Amanda’s obsession with the past also contributes to Laura’s isolation. Amanda’s constant reminders of her past success make Laura feel inadequate and unworthy, causing her to retreat further into her world. Amanda’s attempts to “fix” Laura by setting her up with Jim, a gentleman caller, only reinforce Laura’s feelings of inadequacy when the date doesn’t go as planned. Amanda tells Tom to find a young man suitable for Laura: 

Find out one that’s clean-living—doesn’t drink and—ask him out for your sister!

Tom’s disappointment: Amanda’s expectations and demands also contribute to Tom’s disappointment. He feels trapped and suffocated by his mother’s constant reminders of the past and her expectations for his future. His attempt to escape this by joining the Merchant Marines only leads to more conflict and tension within the family. It ultimately leads to his departure. He leaves Amanda and Laura in a more precarious situation. Tom tells Laura: 

Blow out your candles, Laura—and so good-bye.

The Wingfield’s financial struggles: Amanda’s obsession with the past also contributes to the family’s financial struggles. She spends money on Laura’s glass menagerie and other luxuries they can’t afford. Her refusal to face reality and find work to support the family also increases their financial problems. It makes their present situation even more difficult. Amanda says:

So what are we going to do the rest of our lives?

Amanda Wingfield’s obsession with the past is a significant factor in the Wingfield family’s doomed present. Her unrealistic expectations, Laura’s isolation, Tom’s desperation, and the family’s financial struggles are all exacerbated by Amanda’s refusal to face the reality of their present situation. Her inability to let go of the past and embrace the present ultimately leads to a tragic outcome for the family.