Petrusso is a freelance writer and editor living in Austin, Texas. In this essay, Petrusso argues that the character of Chance Wayne is focused on one thing—denying the reality of his life—and analyzes his futile quest.

Reviewing the original Broadway production of Tennessee Williams's Sweet Bird of Youth, Frank Aston of New York World-Telegram and The Sun pointed out, "He [Chance Wayne] is racing toward something he can never gain, while she [Princess Kosmonopolis] is fleeing the ruins of something she never had." Implicit in Aston's observation is that both of these characters—the primary ones in the play—are living in denial of their current realities. Sweet Bird of Youth explores the desperation and panic of Chance Wayne. This essay looks at Chance, his reality, how he handles it, and its evolution to a tragic end.

Chance Wayne is a...