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Eugene, a fourteen-year-old student with a vivid imagination, functions as a narrator in the play even though he stays on the periphery of the major events, having little to do with Stanley’s problems, Nora’s job offer, or the fight between Blanche and Kate. His voice, nevertheless, remains necessary as he provides a sharp analysis of his family and its dynamics as well as commentary on the events that unfold throughout the play. Eugene wants to be either a baseball player or a writer when he grows up. In his free time, he spins out fantasies of himself in the role of the star player who saves the game. Eugene also writes down what happens in his life in his journal, narrating the events as if were a story. He is prone to wisecracking. Aside from his imagination, Eugene’s most defining characteristic is his interest in girls and sex. In Act One, he confesses to the audience and Stanley that he lusts after Nora, and he employs different tactics to see her body. 

Eugene has mixed feelings about his family. While he is concerned for his overworked father’s health, he still resents his parents for telling him what to do. While he idolizes his brother Stanley and relies on him to explain the mysteries of adolescence, he gets angry when Stanley tries to take on a more paternal role. Eugene feels a myriad of emotions though he often downplays them through his humorous quips.

Eugene matures throughout the week or so that this play takes place. Toward the end of Act Two, the audience sees his first real conversation with his cousin, Laurie, and he demonstrates insight when he suggests that Laurie’s mother Blanche tells her she is sick to keep her close. Eugene’s lust also finds a new, healthier outlet after Stanley gives him a picture of a naked woman.

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