THOM PAIN (based on nothing) is a one-man show written and performed by Will Eno, which premiered in 2004. The play has garnered mixed reviews, with some critics praising it as a profound and powerful monologue, while being called meandering by others.
The character Thom Pain is a disaffected, cynical individual who shares introspective reflections on life's absurdities and his existential crises through a stream-of-consciousness narrative. The monologue includes vignettes that reveal his experiences, such as witnessing a dog die and reflecting on failed romances.
While the script is noted for its edgy language and disjointed structure, it captures a coherent personality described by Eno as a "street dog." Notably, the titular character has also been performed by Rainn Wilson, known for his role in The Office.
In Mumbai, the one-man show is being directed by Daniel D'Souza, an actor and theatre director who graduated from the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art. The noted thespian's solo act in English is quite charming, though it lacks the rawness that Eno envisioned for Thom Pain, particularly in its poignant moments.
To be fair, the play's disjointed structure presents a complex challenge for any performer. However, within this abstract framework lies a goldmine of performance art an opportunity for any male actor to shine.
That said, Thom Pain's comedic elements are effectively brought to life by D'Souza.
Additionally, the play's minimal stage directions allow the text's depth to shine, providing the audience with a clear visual focus on the performer.
D'Souza's English diction, too, is excellent, making the dialogue delivery effective. Also, his interactions with the audience are endearingly personal.
The choice of play also deserves commendation, as any theatre maker would think twice before committing to a show featuring such an unlikeable character.
Overall, the performance is a great way to become acquainted with Will Eno's writing, who was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in Drama in 2005. Personally, the alternating act of performative coolness and pitiable vulnerability in Eno's writing resembles the power and danger of vulnerability explored in Fleabag series by another outstanding playwright - Phoebe Waller Bridge.
Coming back to Eno, perhaps the melancholic strain in his writing can best be captured by these lines from Thom Pain (based on nothing): "When did your childhood end? How badly did you get hurt when you did, when you were this little, wee little hurtable thing, nothing but big eyes, a heart, a few hundred words? Isn't it wonderful how we never recover? Injuries and wounds, ladies and gents. Slights and abuses, oh, what a paradise. Living in fear, suiting the hurt to our need. What a happy life. What a good game. Who can stand the most, the most life, and still smile, still grin into the coming night and say more, more, encore, encore, you f**kers, you fates, just give me more of the bloody, bloody same." Will Eno, THOM PAIN
For anyone with a bruised heart (which I believe is most of us!), these lines would resonate with a piercing depth.
Divyani Rattanpal is a versatile writer, media professional, anchor, and actor based in Mumbai. As a founding member of The Quint, she has played a pivotal role in shaping digital journalism in India. Currently, she oversees content for Tata Play Har Ghar Startup, India's first 24/7 platform dedicated to startups.
