W. O. Mitchell Critical Essay | Critical Essay by Martin Knelman

Critical Essay by Martin Knelman

Daddy Sherry [is] the hero of W. O. Mitchell's new play The Kite, based on his 1962 novel. Daddy is reputed to be the oldest human being in the world. As his birthday approaches, the media invade his home town in the foothills of Alberta. Daddy Sherry sits on the front porch of his great-great-granddaughter's house, taking it all in but refusing to play the game. He won't conform to the world's idea of how a distinguished ancient should behave. His rambling and bickering infuriate his family, and he embarrasses everyone by refusing to make nice for the TV cameras…. (p. 73)

Much to the consternation of those who hope to capitalize on his longevity, Daddy Sherry announces to the world that he's tired of living, and sets a date for his own death. "Dyin' ain't hard to do, you know," he explains. "All sorts of folks do it without...
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