Symbolism, Imagery, Allegory
Wilder calls for no scenery at the opening of the play, making the Stage Manager carry on a few basic chairs and tables. When Doc Gibbs walks onstage from a doctor’s call, he mimes his doctor's bag, just as Mrs. Gibbs and Mrs. Webb pantomime cooking. Wilder’s set is simple: no frills and no clutter. The clean stage keeps focus on the characters’ interactions, not on the specifics of Grover’s Corners.