Mr Priestley,
I am writing to inform you that I have decided to produce your play, 'An Inspector Calls.' The reason behind this choice is the play's immense appeal. Its setting, which was at the end of the Second World War, is particularly striking. This is because people were seeking entertainment after the long period of tension and stress during the War. Therefore, a play based on life 30 years ago would be perfect.
Not only did the play provide entertainment, but it also provoked thought about societal responsibility. Given the context of the audience in 1945, who had recently endured immense loss and destruction from the Second World War and were also familiar with the devastation caused by the First World War, this play encouraged introspection.
By setting the play in 1912 prior to World War I, the audience possesses knowledge of the world that the Birlings lack. I
...ncorporating the theme of responsibility prompts the understanding that everyone bears responsibilities in their lives. Despite this, individuals still go to war oblivious to the impact on innocent lives, while others suffer from starvation as the wealthy continue to accumulate even greater riches.
Within our society, individuals are distributing drugs without considering the detrimental effects it may have on numerous children and members. The play emphasizes the importance of responsibility as it is a term frequently used by all characters. Each family member possesses a distinct perspective on responsibility. While Mr Birling's handling of his responsibility towards Eva is callous, harsh, and ungenerous, Eric's approach is sympathetic but inexperienced and selfish. Meanwhile, similarities exist between Mrs Birling and Shelia.
In the play, both Mrs Birling and Sheila acknowledge their
responsibility and guilt in Eva's death, showing a similarity in their attitudes towards her. This mirrors how in life, our attitudes towards responsibility differ depending on our relationships and contexts. The playwright encourages the audience to use the end of the war as an opportunity to build a more compassionate society. The Inspector's entrance stuns the audience with dramatic irony, as Mr Birling's assertion that the Titanic won't sink and there will be no more wars is proven false. The play urges us to adopt a sense of responsibility towards each other and work towards a better future.
After watching the National Theatre Production of 'An Inspector Calls', I was particularly fond of the play's conclusion. The ending is a cliff-hanger that leaves the audience in suspense. Just as the family believed they were off the hook for their involvement with a suicide case, the final telephone call announces that a genuine inspector is coming to investigate a young woman's suicide, reigniting the suspense. This unexpected twist has motivated me to create my own rendition of the play.
The utilization of music and lighting created a compelling atmosphere throughout the play. The audience was drawn in by the captivating lighting, which was particularly attractive. Additionally, the detailed setting, notably Mr Birling's intricate house, added depth to the drama and served as a dramatic device. With the house opening up like a doll's house and the voices of actors emanating from within, an eerie feeling was established. Meanwhile, outside on the street, the Inspector spoke while children wandered about as though homeless.
The Inspector was attired in a dark suit along with an overcoat. The lighting
employed in the production of 'An Inspector Calls' is instrumental in establishing the play's atmosphere. To enhance the performance, several elements will be employed. These include a proscenium stage, which I have developed based on the initial act of the play where curtains are raised. Additionally, contrasting background music, such as for the Inspector's entrance accompanied by somber and weighty organ sounds, and Mrs Birling's arrival with a light piano accompanied by chirping sounds will be used to emphasize the message of the play and draw attention to instances when responsibility or society is discussed. Spotlights will only be utilized to highlight important character entrances.
The Inspector's final speech in the play is a crucial moment as it employs a variety of rhetorical techniques, including contrastive pairs, sentence length and pause effects. These techniques prompt both the characters within the play and the audience watching it to reevaluate their views on significant themes such as responsibility, truth and societal inclusivity. The speech emphasizes the importance of considering others in a society with empathy and understanding. Ultimately, the Inspector's message reminds us of our responsibility to society as a whole.
To lead into the Inspector's closing monologue, I'll begin with the dispute among Mr. Birling, his wife, and Eric over the true culpability for Eva Smith's demise. The addition of intense musical accompaniment will escalate the tension. As the argument reaches its peak, the Inspector will interject with a commanding "STOP!" and the music will abruptly cease. Thereafter, he will commence his final speech at a deliberate pace.
During the Inspector's speech, he emphasizes the uniqueness of Eva Smith by pointing with one finger and stating "One Eva Smith
has gone." However, to include everyone, he opens his arms while saying "millions". The Inspector continues to use repetition, stating "millions and millions and millions of Eva Smiths and John Smiths" still left with us. To show the vast amount of people who may need help, he employs this technique. He further emphasizes this point by referring to "their hopes and fears, their suffering and chance of happiness", utilizing "their" as a repetitive word.
Using the repetition of "their..." to refer to people's lives, hopes, fears, suffering, and chance for happiness creates a sentence rhythm that is impactful.
The use of the phrase "hopes and fears" and "suffering and chance of happiness" creates an oxymoron, as it combines contrasting words. Additionally, this phrase is effective in engaging the audience by using powerful and memorable language. The speaker further emphasizes the idea of togetherness by stating "We don't live alone. We are members of one body."
In his rebuke of the Birlings, the Inspector stresses the importance of collective responsibility and care for others, declaring "We don't live alone" and "We are members of one body. We are responsible for each other". The repeated use of "We" highlights his positive views on society and the necessity of supporting each other, ultimately emphasizing the importance of togetherness and mutual care.
"We" and "Millions" are essential words in this speech, as the Inspector emphasizes the need for us to take responsibility for one another and show care for all members of society. In the sentence, "And I tell you...", the use of "I" highlights this message.
According to the text, the Inspector's speech evokes a sense of sincerity in the audience
while also incorporating negative moments. The phrase "fire and blood and anguish" is used to communicate the Inspector's negative thoughts towards the Birlings and their egoistic behavior. This language choice creates a list of three items, utilizing rhetorical technique to make the speech more memorable and appealing.
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