Lost Sole

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The transformation of the characters in the play ‘Away’ shows a process of discovery emanating from a connection with the physical world, which in turn allows individuals to renew their perceptions. Gwen’s remarkable character transformation in triggered by Tom’s role as he is the catalyst on her journey to self -realisation. Perhaps the most pivotal reference of Gwen’s alteration is seen after the storm, where her conversation regarding Tom has been quite confronting and unexpected. Gwen’s sense of materialism is diminished as her possessions have been swept away or significantly damaged in the aftermath. Metaphorically, the water represents an emotionally cleansing agent which has offered her renewed perceptions of her world. In symbolically using the storm as one of the main turning points for Gwen, Gow explores the power of nature in solving problems and in this case, it is shown as a power to strip away Gwen’s façade. This contributes towards her transformation as she becomes an understanding and compassionate wife as mirrored by her conversation with Jim, when she regretfully questions, “What do you think of me? You must hate me? Why do you still bother?” The power of her words, “I’m sorry”, clearly indicates Vic’s influential conversation on her new state of being. Here, Gwen opens her mind to the world and realises that the dialogue with Vic was transformative, in particular when she pleads with Jim to tell her “what (she) is trying to say” and in an imperative tone, “Don’t protect me.” Gwen’s new understanding is most noted in the closing scenes where all are members of the audience for local play. “The applause is led thunderously by Gwen”, a stage direction which juxtaposes her previous attitude with the first play where she complained of it not being a musical. Thus symbolising the unexpected nature of Gwen’s discovery, one which has impacted on her personal values.

Similarly, Holub expresses change as an individual's commitment to embrace new opportunities presented to them, leading to a new perspective of life. The door, being the central metaphor of the poem, represents a barrier, which holds us back from instigating a change. It is a gateway to new opportunities if the individual decides to take the initiative. The poet uses repetition of the phrase "go and open the door" as the opening line of each stanza to create an emphatic tone which explores the idea that discoveries can lead individuals into new worlds and values.

In essence, the several personas in Michael Gow’s play “Away” and the Film, “Wild” explore how overcoming obstacles within ones way of life can lead to a greater discovery and therefore, transform into more genuine and liberated individuals, who are free of their facades.