Every good thing in the world stands on the razor edge of danger

Every good thing in the world stands on the razor edge of danger

Thornton Wilder, the renowned American playwright and novelist, is no stranger to exploring the delicate balance between joy and peril in his works. In his plays and novels, Wilder often delves into the complexities of human existence, highlighting the fragility of life and the inherent risks that come with pursuing happiness and fulfillment. One of his most famous quotes, "Every good thing in the world stands on the razor edge of danger," encapsulates this theme perfectly.

Wilder's exploration of this concept can be seen in many of his works, most notably in his Pulitzer Prize-winning play, "Our Town." Set in the fictional town of Grover's Corners, the play follows the lives of its residents as they navigate the joys and sorrows of everyday life. Through the characters of Emily Webb and George Gibbs, Wilder illustrates how even the simplest moments of happiness are tinged with the knowledge of their fleeting nature. The characters grapple with the realization that every moment of joy is accompanied by the looming shadow of loss and tragedy.