Peter likes things just so. He goes to his bench, he reads his book, he goes to work, he goes to his bench. Everything is in its place. And then Jerry comes along and unleashes messy quirkiness, like one of those happy-go-lucky singers in an indie-pop video using the office rolling chair to skid around enthusiastically. So really The Zoo Story is like a happy indie pop video. But with more rat poison and stabbings.
Questions About Rules and Order
- Is the play in favor of rules and order? Explain your answer.
- Do zoos in the play symbolize order or disorder?
- Is the world an ordered place in The Zoo Story?
Chew on This
Try on an opinion or two, start a debate, or play the devil’s advocate.
Jerry would be better off if he obeyed the rules.
Peter would be better off if he did not obey all the rules.