The Priest's Departure from the Theater Program: A Symbol of Passion and Practicality in Lady Bird

In Greta Gerwig's film Lady Bird, the priest Father Leviatch's departure from the theater program carries significant weight and reflects a broader theme of the struggle between passion and practicality. This article explores how his decision to resign resonates with the film's deeper narrative and the unique values held by the characters.

The Context of Father Leviatch's Departure

In the film, when Lady Bird auditions for the school’s fall musical, she discovers that an older priest is one of the drama coaches. This figure is presented with sympathy, as a man who earlier in life was married and lost a son, and who now struggles with depression. His presence in the theater program is a poignant reminder of the personal sacrifices made for the sake of art and community.

When he goes away for treatment, a younger priest takes his place. However, Father Leviatch is later seen at the hospital where Lady Bird's mother works. At first glance, it seems he is ill, but as we learn, it is actually cancer. His illness adds another layer of complexity to his character and his departure from the theater program.

Symbolism in Father Leviatch's Decision

Father Leviatch's decision to resign from the theater program reflects a broader narrative in the film about the struggle between the ideal and the pragmatic. He states during a conversation with Lady Bird that the students are more focused on social aspects rather than the art of theater itself. This statement highlights the tension in the school community between the pursuit of passion and the demands of practicality.

Father Leviatch represents the older, more traditional values in the community. His departure signifies a shift from the old to the new, from the established to the emerging. The younger priest, having less connection to the past, is well-equipped to handle the new challenges and opportunities in the theater program. This transition is a symbol of the natural evolution of a community and its values.

The Broader Themes in Lady Bird

The film delves into the complex relationships between the characters, particularly Lady Bird and her mother, Marion. Through Father Leviatch's departure, we see how the characters navigate their respective values and the impact of their choices on others. For Lady Bird, her passion for the theater program is an integral part of her identity and a reflection of her own values. The departure of Father Leviatch forces her to confront the realities of life and the importance of balance.

The film also explores the differing values held by the characters. Lady Bird, for instance, has a more idealistic and passionate perspective, while her mother has a more practical and grounded one. Their differing values create tension, but ultimately, it is their love and understanding of each other that brings them closer.

Conclusion

Father Leviatch's departure from the theater program in Lady Bird is a powerful symbol of the struggle between passion and practicality. It serves as a conduit for exploring the complex relationships between the characters and their values. Through this narrative, the film highlights the importance of balance and the natural evolution of a community as it grapples with its various challenges.

The intertwining of the personal and the community in Lady Bird provides rich material for discussion and reflection. The film invites the audience to consider their own values and the choices they make, both in their professional and personal lives. Through Father Leviatch's departure, Lady Bird is prompted to re-evaluate her priorities and find a harmonious balance between her passion and practicality.

Keywords: theater program, passion vs practicality, symbolism in movies