Image of Strength
There is particularly significant imagery through the courage that James and Buzz possess. This is because they both know that they will soon die, as they have both contracted AIDS, so their romantic relationship with each other will very quickly be over. Despite this, they continue to tenderly love each other and continue each day with strength and optimism.
Image of Romance
Throughout the play, there are numerous examples of romantic imagery through the various on-stage relationships that are portrayed. The first example of this is Gregory and Bobby, as despite there being a large age gap between the two of them, they are able to overcome the barriers of age and enjoy each other for who they really are. Bobby is also blind, and yet they have a relationship with each other and wish to break down yet another stereotype that would otherwise hinder them.
Image of Caring
The time taken to care and nurture for each other is an image that is prevalent during the play. We see how Buzz spends much of time working in the AIDS clinic close to his home, and how he wishes to look after the younger generation of gay men, in order to pass his own experiences onto them. This image of care is then repeated at the end of the play when he himself is looked after as he suffers from AIDS and reaches the end of his life.
Image of Searching
The imagery of searching for a lost or hidden identity is depicted primarily through Gregory. This is because even though he is a famous and professional dancer and choreographer, he feels as though he has lost part of his identity: his creativity. For Gregory, much of the play is about his journey to rekindle his love and passion for dance, and to hopefully find the energy and spirit required to lead a performance in time for the grand New York showcase.
