Prairie du Chien (play)

Prairie du Chien is a one-act play written by American playwright David Mamet. It is part of his 1985 collection, Three Plays, alongside The Shawl and Cryptogram.

The play is known for its fragmented dialogue, cryptic symbolism, and exploration of themes such as power, deception, and masculinity. Set during a poker game, the narrative unfolds through a series of tense and ambiguous conversations between the characters, leaving much of the meaning and plot open to interpretation.

The specific setting is a hotel room in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, a location that evokes a sense of Americana and perhaps a simpler, bygone era that contrasts with the complex and often morally questionable actions of the characters. The game of poker itself serves as a metaphor for the manipulation and bluffing inherent in human relationships and social interactions.

Key characteristics of Prairie du Chien include its minimalist staging, reliance on subtext, and the deliberate ambiguity surrounding the characters' motivations and histories. The play's lack of clear exposition and resolution contributes to its unsettling and thought-provoking nature. It is often considered a significant example of Mamet's distinctive dramatic style.