Inspector Calls Quotes: A Friendly Guide To Key Lines

An Inspector Calls, a captivating play by J.B. Priestley, centers on themes of responsibility, society, and empathy. This thought-provoking work challenges audiences to examine their own moral values, as the story unfolds around a mysterious Inspector questioning an upper-class family about their involvement in a young woman’s demise.

Within the play, you’ll find numerous quotes that effectively underscore the central themes and messages of the narrative. These memorable lines, spoken by various characters, offer profound insights into the human condition and our position in society. As you delve deeper into An Inspector Calls, you’ll undoubtedly be struck by the powerful impact these quotes have on the story and its overarching message.

Table of Contents

Quote List 1 – 25

Character Analysis and Interactions

In An Inspector Calls, Eric admits his guilt in Eva Smith’s death, saying, “That’s when it happened. And I’m not going to forget.” ¹
Sheila also recognizes her responsibility, remarking, “So I’m really responsible?” ²
As for Arthur, he insists on his innocence and rejects any blame, stating, “I can’t accept any responsibility.” ³
A key interaction in the play involves Inspector Goole, who warns everyone, “We have to share something. If there’s nothing else, we’ll have to share our guilt.” ⁴

Exploration of Themes and Motifs

Guilt and Blame

The theme of guilt runs throughout the play, and Inspector Goole emphasizes that each character played a role in Eva Smith’s demise: “…each of you helped to kill her. Remember that.” ⁵
The blame is shared among the family members, and Sheila even blames herself, saying, “I know I’m to blame – and I’m desperately sorry.” ⁶

Duty

The play focuses on the idea of moral duty, with Inspector Goole stating, “One Eva Smith has gone – but there are millions and millions of Eva Smiths.” ⁷
He also emphasizes the collective responsibility we all hold, saying, “One person and one line of inquiry at a time. Otherwise, there’s a muddle.” ⁸

Moral Crime

In the story, An Inspector Calls, committing a moral crime is seen as just as harmful as a legal one. Inspector Goole tells the family, “We are responsible for each other.” ⁹

Family Relationships

Issues within family relationships play an essential role in the narrative. For example, Eric confronts his father, saying, “You’re beginning to pretend now that nothing’s happened at all. And I can’t see it like that.” ¹⁰

Quote List 26 – 50

Social and Historical Context

In reference to cheap labor, Inspector Goole remarks, “We have to share something. If there’s nothing else, we’ll have to share our guilt.” [“source”]
Mr. Birling, a capitalist, mentions the Titanic as an example of progress: “A friend of mine went over this new liner last week – the Titanic – she sails next week – forty-six thousand eight hundred tons – New York in five days – and every luxury – and unsinkable, absolutely unsinkable.” [“source”]
Mrs. Birling’s snobbish attitude and her blindness to realities are showcased through the quote, “a man has to make his own way—has to look after himself—and his family, too, of course.” [“source”]
Arthur Birling, a former Lord Mayor, boasts, “Working together, for lower costs and higher prices.” [“source”]

Literary Devices and Techniques

The play uses dramatic irony to highlight the flaws of capitalism and promote socialism, as seen in Mr. Birling’s confident claim about the Titanic being unsinkable, only for the audience to know that it eventually did sink. [“source”]
Inspector Goole’s prophetic warning, “But just remember this… fire and blood and anguish. Good night,” serves as a metaphor for the consequences of ignoring social responsibilities and continuing the path of selfishness and exploitation. [“source”]
Another literary technique used in the play is the single line of inquiry, as illustrated by Inspector Goole’s statement, “It’s the way I like to go to work. One person and one line of inquiry at a time. Otherwise, there’s a muddle.” [“source”]

By focusing on these quotes, you will have a better understanding of the social and historical context of “An Inspector Calls” and the various literary devices and techniques used by J. B. Priestley to convey his message.

Quote List 51 – 75

Conflict and Resolution

“We have to share something. If there’s nothing else, we’ll have to share our guilt.” – Inspector Goole highlights the importance of personal responsibility
*”I won’t believe it’s simply my fault.”_ – Gerald demonstrates reluctance to accept responsibility
*”It’s the way I like to go to work. One person and one line of inquiry at a time.”_ – Inspector Goole explains his method of resolving issues
*”But just remember this… fire and blood and anguish.”_ – Inspector Goole emphasizes the consequences of not taking responsibility

Character Development

*”Working together, for lower costs and higher prices”_ – Arthur illustrates his values and motivation as a businessman
*”And so long as he does that he won’t come to much harm.”_ – Arthur expresses his belief in self-reliance
*”We are members of one body. We are responsible for each other.”_ – Inspector Goole emphasizes the importance of community and interconnectedness
*”You’re squiffy.”_ – Sheila shows her humorous side

In this section, you’ll find quotes that deal with both conflict resolution and character development in An Inspector Calls. Pay attention to the italicized quotes and consider how they relate to the themes of personal responsibility, growth, and relationships.

Quote List 76 – 100

In this section, you’ll find a diverse collection of quotes from An Inspector Calls by J.B. Priestley. These quotes provide valuable insights into the characters and themes of the play.

Final Thoughts and Impressions

“A friend of mine went over this new liner last week – the Titanic – she sails next week – forty-six thousand eight hundred tons – forty-six thousand eight hundred tons – New York in five days – and every luxury – and unsinkable, absolutely unsinkable.” Mr. Birling proudly discusses the Titanic and its perceived invincibility, showcasing his overconfidence in Material progress.
“But just remember this… fire and blood and anguish.” Inspector Goole ominously evokes the consequences of ignoring communal responsibility and underscores the need for a more compassionate and united society.
“We are members of one body.” Inspector Goole speaks to the interconnectedness of humanity and highlights the socialist message that we must care for each other and not prioritize just individual interests.
“A man has to make his own way—has to look after himself—and his family, too.” Mr. Birling articulates his staunch belief in individualism and the pursuit of personal prosperity, disregarding the larger community’s well-being.
“Everything’s all right now, Sheila.” Gerald Croft reassures Sheila, suggesting a return to the status quo after the Inspector’s departure.

As you reflect on these quotes from An Inspector Calls, consider the characters’ viewpoints and how they influence the narrative. Do you find yourself sympathizing with certain characters or adopting their perspectives? The play aims to spark engaging discussions and challenge our assumptions about society.

Inspector Calls Quotes: A Friendly Guide to Key Lines