Straight Line Crazy

Robert Moses was a powerful man in New York for forty years, creating parks, bridges, and expressways to connect the people to the great outdoors. However, in the 1950s, groups of citizens organized against his schemes and against the motor car, campaigning for a different idea of what a city should be. David Hare's play "The Man Who Owns the Sky" premieres at the Bridge Theatre, London, in March 2022, exposing the weakness of democracy in the face of charismatic conviction.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 144 pages
Publication date: 17 March 2022
Publisher: Faber & Faber

For forty uninterrupted years, Robert Moses held unparalleled influence over New York, exerting his power without holding elected office. Through a combination of guile, charm, and intimidation, he manipulated those in positions of authority. Initially driven by a sincere desire to enhance the well-being of New York City's workforce, Moses embarked on a transformative project, creating parks, bridges, and an extensive expressway network that connected the city's people to the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. However, in the 1950s, a growing chorus of citizens began to oppose his schemes and the dominance of the motor car. They advocated for a radically different vision of what a city should be, championing a more sustainable and pedestrian-friendly urban environment.

David Hare's searing portrayal of Robert Moses, brought to life by Ralph Fiennes, delves into the story of a man whose unwavering determination exposed the fragility of democracy in the face of charismatic conviction. Set to premiere at the Bridge Theatre in London in March 2022, this captivating play offers a thought-provoking exploration of power, governance, and the enduring impact of visionary individuals on the shaping of cities.

Weight: 164g
Dimension: 128 x 198 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780571363049
Edition number: Main