3 Review(s)

The play centers on Captain Hagberd, an old, eccentric mariner who spends his days waiting for his estranged son, Harry, to return home. Hagberd's obsession with his son's return drives him to prepare for a future that may never come. Bessie Carvil, a young woman living with her blind, tyrannical father, Mr. Carvil, shares a quiet affection for Harry and longs for a life away from her oppressive circumstances. When Harry finally returns, Bessie hopes for a change, but Harry’s own desires for adventure conflict with her wish for stability.Throughout their interactions, Conrad explores themes of duty and freedom. Bessie’s desire for love and companionship is crushed when Harry ultimately chooses the lure of the sea over a life with her, leaving both her and Hagberd to face their disappointments. In a bittersweet ending, Bessie and Hagberd are left to continue their lives without the companionship they longed for, embodying the theme of dreams deferred.