Play: The Walrus and the Carpenter

Introduction
"The Walrus and the Carpenter" is a play by British author and humorist Frank Muir, based on the famous poem of the exact same name by Lewis Carroll, which initially appeared in the 1871 novel "Through the Looking-Glass". Written in 1967, the play explores the peculiar world of Wonderland and its long-lasting appeal, providing a contemporary analysis of the poem's themes of deception and gluttony. In this adjustment, Muir broadens the roles of the Walrus and the Carpenter, offering a more comprehensive expedition of their personalities and inspirations, while also including other characters from Wonderland.

Plot Overview
The play follows the titular characters, the Walrus and the Carpenter, as they start a walk along the beach. The Walrus, being a shrewd and significant fellow, persuades the naïve and relying on Carpenter to join him in his actions instead of finishing their day-to-day jobs. Along the way, they stumble upon a group of young oysters and lure them into a conversation, with intents to feast upon them.

The naïve oysters, mesmerized by the sophisticated language and manipulative appeal of the Walrus, follow the duo blindly, unaware of their cruel intentions. Meanwhile, the Carpenter, while familiar with their plan, is contrasted by the ethical predicament and feels pangs of guilt about betraying the trust of the oysters.

As the Walrus and the Carpenter engage more with the oysters and deepen their deception, other characters from Wonderland, such as the Cheshire Cat, Mock Turtle, Mad Hatter, and White Rabbit, emerge in the play. Each includes their distinct viewpoints and motivations to the story, additional enriching the narrative.

Styles
1. Deceptiveness and Manipulation: The main style of the play revolves around the manipulation and deceit practiced by the Walrus and the Carpenter to attain their objectives. The Walrus, in specific, is a master at using language and beauty to trick others, apparent through his smooth talking and convincing nature. This theme shows the risk that exists in relying on others easily without questioning their intents, and the prospective harm that manipulative people can cause to the susceptible.

2. Morality and Guilt: The play provides a plain contrast between the characters of the Walrus and the Carpenter. While the Walrus feels no regret in his deceptiveness, the Carpenter fights with the morality of their actions. This dichotomy raises concerns about the importance of conscience and regret, and whether actions can be validated in the pursuit of selfish desires.

3. The Power of Language: The Walrus's persuasive language and rhetoric play a substantial role in enticing the unsuspecting oysters. Muir's adaptation of this poem shows the potency of language and its ability to sway others for both favorable and unfavorable results.

4. The Absurd Nature of Life: Muir draws upon the eccentric characters and peculiarities of Wonderland to check out the absurdities and chaos in daily human experience. The nonsensical events in the play emphasize the illogical nature of life, with characters displaying eccentric habits and engaging in seemingly pointless undertakings.

Conclusion
Frank Muir's adjustment of Lewis Carroll's "The Walrus and the Carpenter" is an innovative expedition of the poem's themes and Wonderland's character. The play dives much deeper into the motivations of the Walrus and Carpenter, be it deceptiveness, control, or ethical dispute, and shows the power of language to manage and influence others. Moreover, Muir takes advantage of the absurdity of Wonderland to show the absurd nature of human life and society. This creative and amusing adaptation successfully sets Carroll's classic poem with Muir's sharp humor and eager insights.