Scene one begins with a description of the building, which we learn to be the home of Stanley and Stella in Elysian Fields. Elysian means heaven and we soon see the irony of this name as the play continues. The area is described as "poor" but having a "raffish charm". The opening description makes the place sound beautiful and romantic. Although the scene is described in a positive light we know that the `blue piano' expresses the spirit of the life which goes on there, a life of depression and pain. This makes us think that perhaps there may be pain and trouble ahead and the `blue piano' is heard to be playing at key moments in the play.

The opening lines of the first scene are of people generally chatting and getting on with their lives. A mixture of culture is clearly shown here. We meet Stella...