The Glass Menagerie I

Tennessee Williams' characters in The Glass Menagerie have a large impact on the plot. However, one unseen character has an overall impact on each character and their actions, the absentee father. It is clear the father is prevalent in the daily lives of the Wingfield family. He is mentioned in every scene, showing his abandonment still remains in the thoughts of the family. His picture remains over their mantle, a subtle reminder of his life of adventure without them. This has a lasting effect on Tom. His father's abandonment has placed the strain of the family on Tom, a responsibility he clearly detests. But despite his anger at his father, Tom is also slightly amazed and envious that his father was able to leave the family behind for a life of adventure. His admiration for his father is shown when Tom, speaking of the magic show in which he witnessed a man escape a nailed coffin, states "But who in hell ever got himself out of one without removing one nail? (Williams, 1249). In answer to his question, a light shines on his father's picture. Tom views his family situation as a strain and sees the example his father set as his only chance to escape.  His father's example eventually leads to Tom's abandonment of his mother and sister.