Torch Song Trilogy Study Guide

The play opens in a dressing room where Arnold is preparing for his performance as a drag queen. From another part of the stage, a torch singer named Lady Blues finishes a ballad and Arnold begins a monologue directed at the audience. Arnold shares his frustrations at the lack of true love in his life despite all his attempts and all the humiliations and betrayals that plague a homosexual man. Arnold is well aware of his own shortcomings but admits that he has much to offer the right person. After sharing his idea of the perfect man, Arnold makes final preparations for his show and tells the audience that the right man may just be in the audience tonight. (read more)