The Lie

In Florian Zeller’s The Lie, published by Faber & Faber in 2017, readers are introduced to a tense dinner scenario involving characters Michel, Laurence, and Alice. The play unfolds as Alice grapples with the discovery of Michel kissing another woman earlier that day, leading to a conflict with her husband Paul, who advocates for maintaining the status quo. This edition, comprising 91 pages, presents a nuanced exploration of relationships and the complexities of truth and deception.
The Lie serves as a companion piece to Zeller’s earlier work, The Truth, and delves into the intricacies of personal dynamics and the motivations behind protecting one another. As the characters navigate their emotional turmoil, the play raises questions about fidelity and the nature of honesty. Translated by Christopher Hampton, this edition captures the essence of European drama, inviting readers to reflect on the delicate balance between love and betrayal.
Official synopsis Publisher
In Florian Zeller’s The Lie, a companion piece to his earlier play The Truth, Michel and Laurence are coming for dinner. But Alice has spotted Michel kissing another woman that very afternoon, leaving her with a dilemma. Her husband Paul believes it is better to behave as if nothing has happened; Alice is far from sure. An argument ensues and as their own relationship is held up to scrutiny, the question as to who is being protected and why grows ever more difficult to answer.
Translated by Christopher Hampton, The Lie received its English language world premiere at the Menier Chocolate Factory, London, in September 2017.
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