In “Tender Offer” Wendy Wasserstein uses the title serves as a metaphor, making a comparison between the actual meaning and the gesture Lisa longs for from her father. A tender offer means to finance an offer to purchase some or all of shareholders' shares in a corporation. Tender Offer is a drama set around the relationship of a father and his young daughter. Their conflict seems to be their lack communication as well as the two of them not spending enough time together. The protagonist, Lisa longed for her father’s attention. In “Tender Offer” by Wendy Wasserstein, she uses theme, conflict, and dialogue to demonstrate that the most important ingredient in effective communication depends upon mutual understanding.
Wendy Wasserstein uses theme to demonstrate that the most important ingredient in effective communication depends upon mutual understanding. The theme of play emphasizes a certain inadequacy in the lifestyle of Americans, the compassionate communication between an estranged father and his daughter. "LISA. I saw this show on television, I think it was WPIX Channel 11. Well, the father was crying about his daughter.” In this quote Lisa shows a subtle need for her father’s attention. Wasserstein use of theme conveys a message to the readers that suggests that the bond between these two characters are not as strong as it should be considering the fact that they are father and daughter.
Wasserstein uses conflict to illustrate how inadequate communication between estranged fathers and daughters can prove to be an issue. In this play the central conflict involves the father, Paul, who missed his daughter, Lisa’s dance recital. The scene opens with Lisa practicing in a dance studio. In the primary line of the play demonstrates Wasserstein commiserating with Lisa more than Paul as she introduces him merely as “a man.” With that said, the audience does not make the connection that Paul is Lisa’s father until line eight of the play. “Why were you late?” “I was in a meeting. Business. I’m sorry” (1773). In this quote Wasserstein shows Paul was in a hurry that day as he sometimes is and didn't realize Lisa's worries right off the back. Lisa procrastinates to spend a little time with her dad and to get some stuff off her mind. And procrastinate she continues to do as she explains how she doesn't understand such a big word.
Finally, using realistic dialogue the author reveals that the most important component in any relationship is effective communication and that depends upon mutual understanding. A short conversation between father and daughter allows readers to view how the weakness of their relationship is taking its toll. The dialogue between Lisa and Paul reveals a typical tension filled conversation in an American household whose foundation isn’t that strong. “Daddy, Miss Judy wanted to know why you were late today.” “Hmmmmmmmm.” “Why were you late?” “I was in a meeting. Business. I’m sorry” (1773). This is the first time Paul apologizes for missing his daughter’s dance recital, also note that Lisa allows Miss Judy first to present accusations against her father. This happens to be the first of many instances of inadequate communication. When reading this play many readers ask the question what is Paul about? Paul is a hard worker who figures things out. While it is apparent that there is an obvious weakness in their relationship, Paul beyond doubt loves and cares for Lisa and in fact is not snide and compassionless.
Over some time he begins listening and begins to understand his daughter’s needs. He explains his situation to her like a business plan. Then they share a new precious moment together before they go home to settle back into normal life.
In conclusion, effective communication is the key to having a normal relationship with anyone. Paul realizes this as the play unfolds and he and his daughter begin to come to a central understanding, an understanding of the theme effective communication.
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