You Never Can Tell is a notable literary work by George Bernard Shaw. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts,
Key info,
Summary,
Themes,
Characters,
Literary devices,
Quotations,
Notes, to various questions of You Never Can Tell.
Characters
Mrs. Lanfrey Clandon: A strong-willed, modern woman and a feminist. She left her husband 18 years ago and raised her children with progressive values. She is highly independent and believes in gender equality. She often clashes with traditional family ideals.
Mr. Fergus Crampton: Mrs. Clandon’s estranged husband. He is a rigid and conservative man who struggles to reconnect with his children. His old-fashioned values make him a source of conflict within the family.
Gloria Clandon: The eldest daughter of Mrs. Clandon, she is beautiful and intelligent, but her mother’s influence has made her skeptical of love and marriage. Despite her reluctance, she develops feelings for Valentine.
Dolly Clandon: One of the Clandon twins, Dolly is lively, humorous, and curious. She often lightens the mood with her witty remarks and playful nature.
Philip Clandon: Dolly’s twin brother, Philip, is similarly witty, curious, and keen to observe human nature. He enjoys teasing others but is also protective of his family.
Valentine: A young and poor dentist who becomes romantically involved with Gloria. He is charming and optimistic, but his carefree attitude towards love contrasts with Gloria’s seriousness.
Finch McComas: The family solicitor and a friend to both Mrs. Clandon and Mr. Crampton. He tries to mediate the family’s conflicts and offers practical advice throughout the play.
William: A wise and philosophical waiter at the Marine Hotel, William often provides humorous and insightful commentary on the unfolding events. He symbolizes the unpredictability of life and relationships.Walter Bohun: A barrister and the son of William, the waiter. He is an intelligent professional who mediates during the family’s disputes, using his legal expertise to resolve tensions.