An Inspector Calls - Mr Birling

Question 1

A man has to make his own way – has to look after himself – and his family too, of course.

Question 2

Community and all that nonsense.

Question 3

We employers at last are coming together to see that our interests – and the interests of capital – are properly protected.

Question 4

I’m talking as a hard-headed, practical man of business.

Question 5

The way some of these cranks talk and write now, you’d think everybody has to look after everybody else.

Question 6

The Germans don’t want war. Nobody wants war.

Question 7

“Unsinkable, absolutely unsinkable.”

Question 8

In 1940… you’ll be living in a world that’ll have forgotten all these Capital versus Labour agitations.

Question 9

There isn’t a chance of war.

Question 10

We’re in for a time of steadily increasing prosperity.

Question 11

I was almost certain for a knighthood in the next Honours List.

Question 12

“Look, Inspector—I’d give thousands—yes, thousands—” (When it’s too late to help Eva Smith.)

Question 13

“You’d better ask Gerald for that ring you gave back to him, hadn’t you? Then you’ll feel better.” (Trying to restore order through materialism.)

Question 14

“I only did what any employer might have done.” (Justifying sacking Eva Smith.)

Question 15

“Nothing to do with you, Sheila. Run along.” (Patronising his daughter.)

Question 16

Still, I can’t accept any responsibility.

Question 17

There’s every excuse for what your mother and I did.

Question 18

“I don’t like that tone.” (When the Inspector challenges him.)

Question 19

“This makes a difference, y’know. In fact, it makes all the difference.”

Question 20

The famous younger generation who know it all. And they can’t even take a joke.