Az Eszterházy Károly Tanárképző Főiskola Tudományos Közleményei. 2001. [Vol. 7.] Eger Journal of American Studies.(Acta Academiae Paedagogicae Agriensis : Nova series ; Tom. 27)

Studies - András Tarnóc: Entropy and Ecstasy: The Dynamics of Human Relationship in Bernard Slade's Same Time Next Year

scenes. In the above scenes when the energy level of the characters appears to even out, a phone call or some other new information disrupts the development of equilibrium. The ensuing intensity of energy dissipation between the characters or the mutually high energy output prevents the formation of the entropic condition. In Scene 1 a knock on the door sends the characters into frantic action, in Scene 2 Debbie's phone call stirs George up both emotionally and physically, and in Scene 3 Doris' pregnancy exerts a negentropic effect. Act Two starts with reversed energy output levels as it is George who responds in an astonished manner to the changes of Doris. She bursts on to the scene and George appears more reserved. George forced to react to Doris' personal metamorphosis becomes more agitated as his tirade also includes his views on the society of the 60's. Eventually his revelation of his son's death prevents the setting in of entropy between the two lovers. In Scene 2 George by assuming the very values of society he previously rejected appears to have achieved an inner serenity. The change of apparel from suits to jeans indicates that an insecure accountant gave way to an artist at peace with himself. Just as when the internal calm and stability of the characters virtually results in a mutual decline of energy levels Harry's phone call jolts George out of his tranquility and forces an indirect confession in the name of Doris, eventually repairing the relationship between her and Harry. The last scene of the drama shows a definite decrease of energy, the passionate embraces are replaced by affectionate hugs and the upcoming state of inertia is avoided only by George's announcement of Helen's death and his subsequent marriage proposal to Doris. Having been rejected by Doris, George leaves the stage only to burst in again moments later. Upon George's exit Doris exhibits a trance like behavior and intends to leave the hotel room suggesting that the closed system would experience a heat death. But once again, George reverts to his old self and his passionate declaration of commitment to Doris exerts a negentropic effect. In conclusion, in Act Two a reversal of the intensity of the characters' energy output notwithstanding, outside information provides additional impetus as Michael's death, Harry's phone call and George's proposal all prevent the onset of entropy. The energy map of the play in fact comes full circle, as by the end of the play George 66