Chekhov and the significance of seasons
As we approach a new season and my favourite of them all: enchanting Autumn, I find myself looking back on my time at acting school. Fond memories mixed with fear and recurring anxieties. But the stand-out for me, was learning about the wonders of the Russian playwright, Anton Chekhov (1860 – 1904).
I remember so clearly while reading The Cherry Orchard, discussing the significance of seasons. Chekhov really highlights this in his writing. Seasons can symbolise a passing of time, of moving forwards in life to the next phase whether we like it or not. Personally, I get a real sense of this change especially at this time of year as we transition from summer to autumn. The ending of one season and the beginning of another allows us to the close a door, move forwards and in turn open new doors. A new season allows room for fresh energy, focus and motivation. One of the things I struggled with the most while living in Australia, was not having defined seasons like we do here in the UK. Towards the end of my time in Sydney, I often found myself feeling as though I was stuck in limbo, a record on repeat, unable to move forwards.
Now that we are approaching Autumn, my habits have to turned to deep cleaning, wardrobe clear outs, trips to Oxfam and pushing myself to complete any loose ends that I may have put off during the summer months. I adore observing the tree outside of my London flat as it evolves and the leaves begin to turn golden before falling gracefully to the ground. Nature is our consistency and stability. It is the one thing on this earth that we can rely on. It never lets us down.
Chekhov’s use of time in his writing can at times be subtle, sometimes serving as an undercurrent. His writing serves to remind us all that time is fleeting and is precious, as is life. The Cherry Orchard is a reflection on the passage of time and the inevitability of change, something that we as humans, cannot control no matter who we are. Which is why the works of Chekhov are still so significant today, making his plays timeless classics.
“The cherry orchard is a symbol of our past, present and future. It is a reminder of the cycles of life and the inevitability of change.”
The Cherry Orchard by Anton Chekhov