The Gibson Upright

"The Gibson Upright" by Booth Tarkington and Harry Leon Wilson is a play written in the early 20th century that delves into the dynamics between labor and management within a piano factory. The narrative follows Andrew Gibson, the owner of the factory, and Nora Gorodna, a labor organizer and piano tester, as they navigate the complexities of class struggle, workers' rights, and capitalist ideals amid impending labor unrest. Through a series of confrontations and discussions among the characters, the play explores themes of ownership, responsibility, and the moral implications of capitalism. The opening of the play introduces us to Andrew Gibson’s factory office, where we find Gibson preoccupied with the day-to-day operations and tensions arising among his workers. Nora Gorodna is introduced as a key character, engaging in work on a Gibson piano as she prepares for an interview with Mr. Mifflin, a journalist and socialist. As labor disputes escalate, various workers confront Gibson with their grievances, revealing their dissatisfaction with wages and working conditions. With the factory facing potential strikes, the tensions unfold chaotically among the workers, imploring discussions about ownership and the rationale behind their strikes. The characters exemplify different viewpoints regarding capitalism and labor rights, setting the stage for conflict and resolution as the narrative progresses.