Write a short note on ‘You Never Can Tell’.

Answer

Write a short note on ‘You Never Can Tell’. [2020] 

“You Never Can Tell” is a famous social comedy written by George Bernard Shaw (1856–1950) in 1897. The play explores family life, marriage, and social change during the Victorian era. Shaw presents the conflict between old traditional ideas and new modern thoughts through the characters of Mr. Crampton and Mrs. Clandon.

The story is set in a seaside town in England. Mrs. Clandon, a modern and independent woman, returns to England with her three children—Gloria, Philip, and Dolly—after a long absence. She had left her husband, Mr. Crampton, because of his proud and harsh nature. Accidentally, the family meets Mr. Crampton, and their reunion creates both comic and emotional situations. The play shows how different views of life and family can create conflict between husband and wife.

Shaw presents Mrs. Clandon as a woman of new ideas who values freedom and equality. Mr. Crampton represents the old belief in authority and control. Mrs. Clandon calls him 

“a domestic tyrant,” 

This clearly shows her pain and the reason for the separation. Through this unhappy marriage, Shaw criticizes the lack of love and understanding in Victorian family life.

The play also contains humor and romance through the young dentist, Valentine, who falls in love with Gloria. Many of his dialogues bring laughter and lightness. The title of the play, “You Never Can Tell,” reflects the uncertainty of human life and relationships. Shaw employs humor to convey profound truths about society, love, and equality.

In conclusion, “You Never Can Tell” is a delightful comedy with a profound message. It teaches that love and family life can succeed only through mutual respect, sympathy, and understanding, not through pride or control.