Jennifer Overton God's Middle Name Analysis

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Autism is a mental condition that is associated with a difficulty for those affected to communicate and form relationships with other individuals. Parenting a child who is affected with this condition is not easy, noted by Jennifer Overton in her play, God’s Middle Name. This play takes a personal look into the life of Overton’s autistic son, Nic, as she conveys the challenges and benefits of raising an autistic child. Containing many game show-related scenes, Overton manages to integrate the issues and struggles that arise from autism in a metaphorically calculated way. Obsessing over game shows, Overton is aware that Nic’s fascination for these television programs is the perfect concept for exposing the true nature of raising an autistic …show more content…

God’s Middle Name effectively invites its audience to understand the implications of autism through game show metaphors; allowing for individuals to empathetically connect to this issue on a personal level. Scene five begins with Jennifer and David “danc[ing] awkwardly, slowly” (I.5, p.25). This stage direction suggests they are both timid and hesitant at the beginning, similar to raising Nic, as Jennifer and David were hesitant at the begining. This can be relatable for an audience member as it suggests starting something new is not always easy as you may feel out of place when you begin. Continuing with new experiences, individuals “dance to faster music” (I.5, p.26). This suggests a metaphor as comfort levels begin to rise, which is similar to Jennifer and David’s situation as they familiarize themselves with Nic’s condition. However, it is also very easy for an individual to “[f]rantically [try] to keep up as the music changes tempo” (I.5, p.26-27). This line continues to add a personal connection to an experience as unexpected things can be thrown at you during situations and you must attempt to “keep up”. Overton’s game show metaphor of the dance competition conveys how personal connections allow for individuals to understand the issues affiliated with autism; just when an individual is confident in something, the “music changes

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