Generations Flashcards
Introduction
Older generations cling to tradition values
Younger generations are more open to change
Hope for a fairer society as they reject their parents updated views
A.M.H.T.M.H.O.B
A man has to mind his own business
The declarative statement reflects the older generation’s belief in individualism
Priestley uses this to contrast with younger characters, showing how generational values fuel social ignorance.
Y.H.T.G.U.T.T.J.A.I.H
You’ll have to get used to that just as I has
The repetition of “you’ll” and “I” expose how the older generation passes down emotional repression, reinforcing toxic cycles.
Priestley critiques outdated norms, urging the younger generation to break away from old values.
I.M.U.O.O.N
Impertinently made use of our name
The adverb “impertinently” reflects an elitist mindset, showing how the older generation obsesses over status
Priestley uses this to satirise their obsession and contrasting it with the younger generation’s growing moral awareness.
B.T.G.A.C.L.T.P
But these girls aren’t cheap labour - they’re people
Sheila’s empathetic language reflect the progressive values of the younger generation.
Priestley uses the dash to mark a turning point, showing moral growth as Sheila rejects her parents’ capitalist mindset.
T.E.E.F.W.Y.M.A.I.D
There’s every excuse for what your mother and I did
The defensive tone and collective pronoun “we” reveal how the older generation rationalises their mistakes instead of learning from them.
Priestley uses this to highlight their resistance to change,contrasting with the remorse of the young.
Y.L.M.B.L.Y.O.N.B.I.C
You lot may be letting yourselves out nicely, but I can’t
Eric’s accusatory tone and inclusive “you lot” emphasise the moral divide between generations
Priestley presents the younger generation as the conscience of the play, determined not to repeat their parents’ mistakes.
I.W.W.A.R.F.E.T.H.T.E.I.W.B.V.A
If we were all responsible for everything that happened to everyone it would be very awkward
The dismissive and exaggerated tone expose Mr Birling’s refusal to embrace the younger generation’s sense of shared responsibility.
Priestley mocks this logic to highlight the older generation and their failure to evolve.
W.T.T.F.H.W
Why shouldn’t they try for higher wages?
The rhetorical question reflects the Inspector’s challenge to generational complacency, supporting the progressive mindset of younger voices like Eric and Sheila.
Priestley positions the Inspector as a catalyst for generational change
