The Simple Truth
by Carl Allensworth
What readers are saying
Readers appreciate the exploration of honesty and its impact on relationships. The one-act play effectively addresses the balance between truthfulness and consideration for others' feelings. While the theme is strong, some find the execution could use more depth.
Synopsis
THE STORY: Emmett Harper is so impressed by the minister's sermon on honesty that he resolves to turn over a new leaf and be completely truthful no matter what is asked of him.
This poses problems at work, in his father-in-law's grocery store, where Emmett is obliged to admit to customers that the bread is stale and the oranges and grapefruit could be juicier.
But the real problems come up later at dinner with his family, when Emmett confesses to his new bride, Nancy, that he hates her kidney stew and always has.
Nancy goes off in tears of confusion, as she had assumed that this was one of his favorites.
Emmet's truthfulness soon becomes contagious and infects the whole family, which threatens to tear the household apart.
It's Emmett's father-in-law, though, whose ultimate truth about his daughter's pregnancy, turns out to bring them all back together.
Press Reviews
"A delightful examination of the hilarious complications which result when a young New Englander decides to speak the truth and nothing but the truth"
— all the time
Publication
The Simple Truth is a American comedy play written by Carl Allensworth and published by Dramatists Play Service (1998).
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Paperback
Dramatists Play Service · 1998 · 72 pp
Performance Rights
Restrictions: Major Markets Plus (US) / Standard Plus Add'l Postcodes (UK)
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