Why have audiences for decades experienced such an emotional reaction to this play, frequently being moved to tears by the manner in which Act III...

The most affecting
section of the play for me - the only truly poignant moment, but a very good one - comes when
Emily joins the dead. The review/consideration of the precious nature of life is well wrought
here. The powerlessness of nostalgia to overcome the limits of life, I think, is clear and this
idea is also rather universally relatable.