About
the Author: J. B. Priestley
Life
The play “Mother’s Day” is
written by J. B. Priestley (John Boynton Priestley). He was born on 13
September 1894 in Manningham, Bradford, U.K., and died on 14
August 1984 in Stratford-upon-Avon, U.K.. In 1914, he volunteered
for the British Army.
Parents
& Spouse
His father, Jonathan Priestley,
was a schoolmaster. His mother, Emma, who had been a mill worker, died
in 1896 when he was only two years old. He was brought up by his stepmother, Amy,
who was kind and caring.
He married Emily Tempest in 1921, who later died of cancer. He then
married Jane Wyndham-Lewis.
Education
He received his early education at Bradford
Grammar School. His education was interrupted during World War I.
After the war, he studied at Trinity Hall, Cambridge. After graduation,
he began writing for local periodicals.
Work
and Career
He left school at the age of 16 and
worked as a clerk at a wool firm, Helm & Co. He had a strong
interest in writing and contributed articles to national and international
newspapers. He also wrote a regular unpaid column for a local paper, the Bradford
Pioneer.
He was a founding member of the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament. During
World War II, he worked with the BBC as a broadcaster.
Literary
Contribution
He became a successful writer with
novels like The Good Companions and Angel Pavement. In Margin
Released, he wrote about his war experiences. His travelogue English
Journey made him famous as a social commentator.
His notable works include:
- Adam Moonshine
- Benighted
- Faraway
- They Walk in the City
His famous plays include:
- Dangerous Corner
- When We Are Married
Honours
and Awards
He refused the offer of knighthood
and peerage. He was awarded the Order of Merit and the Freedom of the
City of Bradford. A library at Bradford University was named after
him, and a statue was erected in his honour.
Summary and Analysis of “Mother’s Day”
Introduction
“Mother’s Day” (1953) is a satirical play that criticizes modern
society’s attitude toward mothers. It humorously presents the life of a
housewife who works tirelessly for her family but receives no appreciation. The
play highlights how mothers sacrifice their happiness without recognition.
Important
Characters
- Mrs. Annie Pearson
– The mother
- George Pearson
– The husband
- Doris Pearson
– The daughter
- Cyril Pearson
– The son
- Mrs. Fitzgerald
– The neighbour
Summary
The play revolves around Mrs.
Pearson, a kind and hardworking mother who is neglected by her family. Her
husband and children take her for granted and do not respect her efforts.
Her neighbour, Mrs. Fitzgerald,
a strong and bold woman, helps her by using a magical spell that temporarily
switches their personalities. With her new assertive behaviour, Mrs. Pearson
teaches her family a lesson.
By the end of the play, the family realizes their mistake and begins to treat
her with respect and care.
Setting
The play is set in the living
room of the Pearson family in a London suburb. The time is an autumn
afternoon. The action begins with Mrs. Pearson and Mrs. Fitzgerald sitting
together while Mrs. Fitzgerald tells her fortune.
Character
Sketches
Mrs.
Annie Pearson
A gentle and caring woman in her
forties. She sacrifices her happiness for her family but is not appreciated.
She represents the typical devoted mother.
George
Pearson
A man in his fifties. He is selfish
and indifferent to his wife’s feelings.
Doris
Pearson
A young woman of about twenty. She
is self-centered and more concerned about her social life.
Cyril
Pearson
The son, who is lazy and
irresponsible. He takes his mother for granted.
Mrs.
Fitzgerald
A bold, confident neighbour with
knowledge of magic. She helps Mrs. Pearson change her situation.
Theme
The main theme of the play is that mothers
sacrifice everything for their families but are often not appreciated. The
play teaches that family members should respect, love, and value their mothers.
Mother’s Day – Text Explanation (Scene-wise)
Opening
Scene (Mrs Pearson & Mrs Fitzgerald)
The play begins in the living
room of the Pearson family.
- Mrs. Pearson is shown as worried, soft, and
submissive
- Mrs. Fitzgerald is strong, confident, and dominating
- Mrs. Fitzgerald tells her fortune and advises her:
- Stop being weak
- Control your family
- Be the “boss” of the house
Key Idea:
Mrs. Pearson knows her family is selfish, but she is too gentle to change them.
The
Magic Change (Turning Point)
Mrs. Fitzgerald suggests something
unusual:
- They exchange personalities (bodies) using magic
- Mrs. Pearson becomes bold and strict
- Mrs. Fitzgerald becomes soft and nervous
Why this is important:
This is the main dramatic twist—it allows change without harming Mrs.
Pearson’s nature permanently.
Doris
Scene (Daughter)
Doris enters and behaves rudely:
- Orders her mother to iron her dress
- Expects tea to be ready
But now:
- Mrs. Pearson refuses
- Criticizes Doris and even mocks Charlie Spence
Effect:
- Doris is shocked and upset
- First sign that the family is losing control
Cyril
Scene (Son)
Cyril also expects service:
- Demands tea and help
- Talks rudely
Mrs. Pearson:
- Refuses to serve him
- Compares housework to an “8-hour job”
- Says she also deserves rest
Key Message:
Housework is real work and deserves respect.
George
Scene (Husband)
George enters:
- He is proud and pompous
- Used to being respected
Mrs. Pearson:
- Drinks stout (unexpected behavior)
- Tells him the truth:
- People at the club laugh at him
- He is called “Pompy-ompy Pearson”
Effect:
- George is deeply shocked
- His ego is broken
Family
Reaction
Now all family members are:
- Confused
- Frightened
- Realizing something is wrong
They begin to understand:
- Their mother is no longer weak
- They cannot control her anymore
Return
of Mrs Fitzgerald
Mrs. Fitzgerald (in Mrs. Pearson’s
body) returns:
- She feels guilty seeing the family upset
- Requests to change back
Mrs. Pearson agrees.
Changing
Back (Resolution Begins)
They reverse the magic spell.
- Both return to their original selves
- Mrs. Pearson is again gentle—but now wiser
Mrs. Fitzgerald warns:
- Do NOT become weak again
- Maintain control and respect
Final
Scene (Happy Ending)
Mrs. Pearson tests her family:
- Suggests:
- Playing rummy together
- Children prepare supper
Family reaction:
- They agree politely
- Show respect
- No more rude behavior
Ending Message:
The family has learned their lesson.
Important Themes from the Text
- Respect for Mothers
– Family must value a mother’s work
- Self-respect
– One must stand up for oneself
- Satire on Family Life
– Shows selfish behavior humorously
- Change through Realization – People improve when confronted
Very Short Summary
A weak mother, Mrs. Pearson, is
helped by her neighbour Mrs. Fitzgerald through a magical exchange of
personalities. Acting boldly, she teaches her selfish family a lesson. After
returning to normal, she gains their respect and improves family relationships.
Text of Mother’s Day (J.B. Priestley)
The action takes place in the living-room of the Pearsons’ house in a
London suburb.
Time: The Present
Scene: The living-room of the Pearson family. Afternoon. It is a
comfortably furnished, much lived-in room in a small suburban semi-detached
villa. If necessary only one door need be used, but it is better with two-one
up left leading to the front door and the stairs and the other in the right
wall leading to the kitchen and the back door. There can be a muslin covered
window in the left wall and possibly one in the right wall, too. The fireplace
is assumed to be in the fourth wall. There is a settee up right, an armchair
down left and one down right. A small table with two chairs on either side of
it stands at the centre.
When the curtain rises it is an afternoon in early autumn and the stage
can be well lit. Mrs Pearson at right, and Mrs Fitzgerald at left, are sitting
opposite each other at the small table, on which are two tea-cups and saucers
and the cards with which Mrs Fitzgerald has been telling Mrs Pearson’s fortune.
Mrs Pearson is a pleasant but worried-looking woman in her forties. Mrs
Fitzgerald is older, heavier and a strong and sinister personality. She is
smoking. It is very important that these two should have sharply contrasting
voices Mrs Pearson speaking in a light, flurried sort of tone, with a touch of
suburban Cockney perhaps; and Mrs Fitzgerald with a deep voice, rather Irish
perhaps.
MRS FITZGERALD: [collecting up the cards] And that’s
all I can tell you, Mrs Pearson. Could be a good fortune. Could be a bad one.
All depends on yourself now. Make up your mind and there it is.
PMRS PEARSON: Yes, thank you, Mrs Fitzgerald. I’m
much obliged, I’m sure. It’s wonderful having a real fortune-teller living next
door. Did you learn that out East, too? 8 MRS FITZGERALD: I did. Twelve years I
had of it, with my old man rising to be Lieutenant Quartermaster. He learnt a
lot, and I learnt a lot more.
But will you make up your mind now, Mrs Pearson
dear? Put your foot down, once an’ for all, an’ be the mistress of your own
house an’ the boss of your own family.
MRS PEARSON: [smiling apologetically] That’s easier
said than done. Besides I’m so fond of them even if they are so thoughtless and
selfish. They don’t mean to be..
MRS FITZGERALD: [cutting in] Maybe not. But it’d be
better for them if they learnt to treat you properly...
MRS PEARSON: Yes, I suppose it would, in a way.
MRS FITZGERALD: No doubt about it at all. Who’s the
better for being spoilt-grown man, lad or girl? Nobody. You think it does ‘em
good when you run after them all the time, take their orders as if you were the
servant in the house, stay at home every night while they go out enjoying
themselves? Never in all your life. It’s the ruin of them as well as you.
Husbands, sons, daughters should be taking notice of wives an’ mothers, not
giving ‘em orders an’ treating ‘em like dirt. An’ don’t tell me you don’t know
what I mean, for I know more than you’ve told me.
MRS PEARSON: [dubiously] -keep dropping a hint....
MRS FITZGERALD: Hint? It’s more than hints your
family needs, Mrs Pearson.
MRS PEARSON: [dubiously] I suppose it is. But I do
hate any unpleasantness. And it’s so hard to know where to start. I keep making
up my mind to have it out with them but somehow I don’t know how to begin. [She
glances at her watch or at a clock] Oh-good gracious! Look at the time. Nothing
ready and they’ll be home any minute and probably all in a hurry to go out
again.
[As she is about to rise, Mrs Fitzgerald reaches out
across the table and pulls her down.]
MRS FITZGERALD: Let ‘em wait or look after
themselves for once. This is where your foot goes down. Start now. [She lights
a cigarette from the one she has just finished.]
MRS PEARSON: [embarrassed] Mrs Fitzgerald-I know you
mean well-in fact, I agre with you but I just can’t and it’s no use you trying
to make me. If I promise you really have it out with them, I know I wouldn’t be
able to keep my promise. MRS FITZGERALD: Then let me do it.
MRS PEARSON: [flustered] Oh no-thank you very much,
Mrs Fitzgerald-but that wouldn’t do at all. It couldn’t possibly be somebody
else they’d resent it at once and wouldn’t listen and really I couldn’t blame
them. I know I ought to do it but you see how it is? [She looks apologetically
across the table, smiling rather miserably.] MRS FITZGERALD: [coolly] You
haven’t got the idea.
MRS PEARSON: [bewildered] Oh-I’m sorry-I thought you
asked me to let you do it.
MRS FITZGERALD: I did. But not as me-as you.
MRS PEARSON: But I don’t understand. You couldn’t be
me.
MRS FITZGERALD: [coolly] We change places.
Or-really-bodies. You look like me. look like you.
MRS PEARSON: But that’s impossible.
MRS FITZGERALD: How do you know? Ever tried it?
MRS PEARSON: No, of course not...
MRS FITZGERALD: [coolly] I have. Not for some time
but it still ought to work. Won’t last long, but long enough for what we want
to do. Learnt it out East, of course, where they’re up to all these tricks.
[She holds her hand out across the table, keeping the cigarette in her mouth]
Gimme your hands, dear.
MRS PEARSON: [dubiously] Well I don’t know is it
right?
MRS FITZGERALD: It’s your only chance. Give me your
hands an’ keep quiet a minute. Just don’t think about anything. [Taking her
hands] Now look at me. [They stare at each other. Muttering] Arshtatta- dum
arshtatta lam-arshtatta lamdumbona...
[This little scene should be acted very carefully.
We are to assume that the personalities change bodies. After the spell has been
spoken, both women, still grasping hands, go lax, as if the life were out of
them. Then both come to life, but with the personality of the other. Each must
try to adopt the voice and mannerisms of the other. So now Mrs Pearson is bold
and dominating and Mrs Fitzgerald is nervous and fluttering.]
MRS PEARSON: [now with Mrs Fitzgerald’s personality]
See what I mean, dear? [She notices the cigarette] Here you don’t want that.
[She snatches it and puts it in her own mouth, puffing contentedly.]
[Mrs Fitzgerald, now with Mrs Pearson’s personality,
looks down at herself and sees that her body has changed and gives a scream of
fright.]
MRS FITZGERALD: [with Mrs Pearson’s personality]
Oh-it’s happened.
MRS PEARSON: [complacently] Of course it’s happened.
Very neat. Didn’t know I had it in me MRS FITZGERALD: [alarmed] But whatever
shall I do, Mrs Fitzgerald? George and the
children can’t see me like this MRS PEARSON:
[grimly] They aren’t going to-that’s the point. They’ll have me to deal
with-only they won’t know it.
MRS FITZGERALD: [still alarmed] But what if we can’t
change back? It’ud be terrible.
MRS PEARSON: Here-steady, Mrs Pearson-If you had to
live my life it wouldn’t be so had. You’d have more fun as me than you’ve had
as you. MBS FITZGERALD: Yes-but I don’t want to be anybody else....
MRS PEARSON: Now-stop worrying. It’s easier changing
back- can do it any time we want...
MRS FITZGERALD: Well-do it now...
MRS PEARSON: Not likely. I’ve got to deal with your
family first. That’s the idea, isn’t it? Didn’t know how to begin with ‘em, you
said. Well. I’ll show you. MRS FITZGERALD: But what am I going to do?
MRS PEARSON: Go into my house for a bit-there’s
nobody there-then pop back and see how we’re doing. You ought to enjoy it.
Better get off now before one of ‘em comes.
MRS FITZGERALD: [nervously rising] Yes I suppose
that’s best. You’re sure it’ll be all right?
MRS PEARSON: [chuckling] It’ll be wonderful. Now off
you go, dear.
[Mrs Fitzgerald crosses and hurries out through the
door right. Left to herself, Mrs Pearson smokes away-lighting another
cigarette-and begins laying out the cards for patience on the table. After a
few moments Doris Pearson comes bursting in left. She is a pretty girl in her
early twenties, who would be pleasant enough if she had not been spoilt.]
DORIS: [before she has taken anything in] Mum-you’ll
have to iron my yellow silk. I must wear it tonight.
[She now sees what is happening, and is astounded.]
What are you doing? [She moves down left centre.]
[Mrs Pearson now uses her ordinary voice, but her
manner is not fluttering and apologetic but cool and e.]
MRS PEARSON: [not even looking up] What d’you think
I’m doing-whitewashing the ceiling?
DORIS : (still astounded )but you’re smoking!
MRS PEARSON: That’s right, dear. No law against it,
is there?
DORIS: But I thought you didn’t smoke.
MRS PEARSON: Then you thought wrong.
DORIS: Are we having tea in the kitchen?
MRS PEARSON: Have it where you like, dear. DORIS:
[angrily] Do you mean it isn’t ready?
MRS PEARSON: Yours isn’t. I’ve had all I want. Might
go out later and get a square mea at the Clarendon.
DORIS: [hardly believing her ears] Who might? MRS
PEARSON: I might. Who d’you think?
DORIS: [staring at her] Mum-what’s the matter with
you? MRS PEARSON: Don’t be silly.
DORIS: [indignantly] It’s not me that’s being
silly-and I must say it’s a bit much when I’ve been working hard all day and
you can’t even bother to get my tea ready. Did you hear what I said about my
yellow silk?
MRS PEARSON: No. Don’t you like it now? I never did.
DORIS: [indignantly] Of course I like it. And I’m
going to wear it tonight. So I want it ironed.
MRS PEARSON: Want it ironed? What d’you think it’s
going to do-iron itself?
DORIS: No, you’re going to iron it for me... You
always do.
MRS PEARSON: Well, this time I don’t. And don’t talk
rubbish to me about working hard. I’ve a good idea how much you do, Doris
Pearson. I put in twice the hours you do, and get no wages nor thanks for it.
Why are you going to wear your yellow silk? Where are you going?
DORIS: [sulkily] Out with Charlie Spence.
MRS PEARSON: Why?
DORIS: [wildly] Why? Why? What’s the matter with
you? Why shouldn’t I go out with Charlie Spence if he asks me and I want to?
Any objections? Go on-you might as well tell me...
MRS PEARSON: [severely] Can’t you find anybody
better?
I wouldn’t be seen dead with Charlie Spence. Buck
teeth and half-witted... DORIS: He isn’t...
MRS PEARSON: When I was your age I’d have found
somebody better than Charlie Spence or given myself up as a bad job.
DORIS (nearly in tears] Oh-shut up!
Doris runs out left. Mrs Pearson chuckles and begins
putting the cards together. After a moment Cyril Pearson enters left. He is the
masculine counterpart of Doris.]
CYRIL (briskly] Hello Mum. Tea ready?
MRS PEARSON: No.
CYRIL Imoving to the table; annoyed] Why not?
MRS PEARSON: [coolly] I couldn’t bother. CYRIL:
Feeling off-colour or something?
MRS PEARSON: Never felt better in my life. CYRIL:
(aggressively] What’s the idea then?
MRS PEARSON: Just a change.
CYRIL: [briskly] Well, snap out of it, Ma-and get
cracking. Haven’t too much time. Cyril is about to go when Mrs Pearson’s voice
checks him.] MRS PEARSON: I’ve plenty of time.
CYRIL: Yes, but I haven’t. Got a busy night tonight.
[moving left to the door] Did you put my things out?
MRS PEARSON: [coolly] Can’t remember. But I doubt
it.
CYRIL: [moving to the table; protesting] Now-look.
When I asked you this morning, you promised. You said you’d have to look
through ‘em first in case there was any mending.
MRS PEARSON: Yes-well now I’ve decided I don’t like
mending. CYRIL: That’s a nice way to talk-what would happen if we all talked
like that?
MRS PEARSON: You all do talk like that. If there’s
something at home you don’t want to do, you don’t do it. If it’s something at
your work, you get the Union to bar it. Now all that’s happened is that I’ve
joined the movement.
CYRIL: [staggered) I don’t get this, Mum. What’s
going on?
MRS PEARSON: [laconic and sinister] Changes.
[Doris enters left. She is in the process of
dressing and is now wearing a wrap. She looks pale and red- eyed.] MRS PEARSON:
You look terrible. I wouldn’t wear that face even for Charlie Spence.
DORIS: [moving above the table; angrily] Oh-shut up
about Charlie Spence. And anyhow I’m not ready yet-just dressing. And if I do look
terrible, it’s your fault-you made me cry.
CYRIL: (curious] Why what did she do?
DORIS: Never you mind.
MRS PEARSON: [rising and preparing to move to the
kitchen] Have we any stout left? can’t remember.
CYRIL: Bottle or two, I think. But you don’t want
stout now.
MRS PEARSON: [moving left slowly] I do.
CYRIL: What for?
MRS PEARSON: (turning at the door] To drink-you
clot!
[Mrs Pearson exits right. Instantly Cyril and Doris
are in a huddle, close together at le centre, rapidly whispering.]
DORIS: Has she been like that with you, too?
CYRIL: Yes-no tea ready-couldn’t care less....
DORIS: Well, I’m glad it’s both of us. I thought I’d
done something wrong.
CYRIL: So did I. But it’s her of course...
DORIS: She was smoking and playing cards when I came
in. I couldn’t believe my eyes.
CYRIL: I asked her if she was feeling off-colour and
she said she wasn’t.
DORIS: Well, she’s suddenly all different. An’
that’s what made me cry. It wasn’t what she said but the way she said it-an’
the way she looked.
CYRIL: Haven’t noticed that. She looks just the same
to me…
DORIS: She doesn’t to me. Do you think she could
have hit her head or something.
CYRIL: [staggered] Do you mean she’s barmy?
DORIS: No, you fathead. Y’know-concussion. She might
have.
CYRIL: Sounds far-fetched.
DORIS: Well, she’s far-fetched, if you ask me. [She
suddenly begins to giggle.]
CYRIL: Now then-what is it?
DORIS: If she’s going to be like this when Dad comes
home... [She giggles again.]
CYRIL: [beginning to guffaw] I’m staying in for
that-two front dress circles for the fir house....
[Mrs Pearson enters right, carrying a bottle of
stout and a halffilled glass. Cyril and Do try to stop their guffawing and
giggling, but they are not quick enough. Mrs Pears regards them with contempt.]
MRS PEARSON: [coldly] You two are always talking
about being grown-up-why don’t you both try for once to be your age? [She moves
to the settee and sits.]
CYRIL Can’t we laugh now?
MRS PEARSON Yes, if it’s funny. Go on, tell me. Make
me laugh. I could do with it. DORIS Y’know you never understand our jokes.
Mum...
MRS PEARSON: I was yawning at your jokes before you
were born, Doris.
DORIS: (almost tearful again] What’s making you talk
like this? What have we done?
MRS PEARSON: [promptly] Nothing but come in, ask for
something, go out again, then Et les come back when there’s nowhere else to go.
CYRIL: [aggressively] Look-if you won’t get tea
ready, then I’ll find something to eat myself...
MRS PEARSON: Why not? Help yourself. [She takes a
sip of stout.]
CYRIL: [turning on his way to the kitchen] Mind you,
I think it’s a bit thick. I’ve been working all day.
DORIS: Same here.
MRS PEARSON: (calmly) Eight hour day!
CYRIL: Yes-eight hour day-an’ don’t forget it.
MRS PEARSON: I’ve done my eight hours.
CYRIL: That’s different.
DORIS: Of course it is.
MRS PEARSON: [calmly] It was. Now it isn’t.
Forty-hour week for all now. Just watch it at the weekend when I have my two
days off.
Doris and Cyril exchange alarmed glances. Then they
stare at Mrs Pearson who returns their look calmly.]
CYRIL: Must grab something to eat. Looks as if I’ll
need to keep my strength up. [Cyril exits to the kitchen.]
DORIS: [moving to the settee; anxiously] Mummy, you
don’t mean you’re not going to do anything on Saturday and Sunday?
MRS PEARSON: [airily] No, I wouldn’t go that far. I
might make a bed or two and do a bit of cooking as a favour. Which means, of
course, I’ll have to be asked very nicely and thanked for everything and
generally made a fuss of. But any of you forty-hour-a weekers who expect to be
waited on hand and foot on Saturday and Sunday, with no thanks for it, are in
for a nasty disappointment. Might go off for the week-end perhaps.
DORIS: (aghast) Go off for the week-end?
PEARSON: Why not? I could do with a change. Stuck
here day after day, week after week. If I don’t need a change, who does? DORIS:
But where would you go, who would you go with?
MRS PEARSON: That’s my business. You don’t ask me
where you should go and who you should go with, do you?
DORIS: That’s different.
MRS PEARSON: The only difference is that I’m a lot
older and better able to look after myself, so it’s you who should do the
asking.
DORIS: Did you fall or hit yourself with something?
MRS PEARSON: [coldly] No. But I’ll hit you with something,
girl, if you don’t stop asking silly questions.
[Doris stares at her open-mouthed, ready to cry.]
DORIS: Oh-this is awful... [She begins to cry, not
passionately.]
MRS PEARSON: [coldly] Stop blubbering. You’re not a
baby. If you’re old enough to go out with Charlie Spence, you’re old enough to
behave properly. Now stop it. [George Pearson enters left. He is about fifty,
fundamentally decent but solemn, self-important, pompous. Preferably he should
be a heavy, slow-moving type. He notices Doris’s tears.]
GEORGE: Hello what’s this? Can’t be anything to cry
about.
DORIS: [through sobs] You’ll see.
[Doris runs out left with a sob or two on the way.
George stares after her a moment, then looks at Mrs Pearson.]
GEORGE: Did she say ‘You’ll see...?
MRS PEARSON: Yes.
GEORGE: What did she mean?
MRS PEARSON: Better ask her.
[George looks slowly again at the door then at Mrs
Pearson. Then he notices the stout that Mrs Pearson raises for another sip. His
eyes almost bulge.]
GEORGE: Stout?
MRS PEARSON: Yes.
GEORGE: [amazed] What are you drinking stout for?
MRS PEARSON: Because I fancied some.
MRS PEARSON: Yes-what’s wrong with it at this time
of day? GEORGE [bewildered] Nothing, I suppose, Annie but I’ve never seen you
do it before... MRS PEARSON: Well, you’re seeing me now.
GEORGE: [with heavy distaste] Yes, an’ I don’t like
it. It doesn’t look right. I’m surprised at you.
MRS PEARSON: Well, that ought to be a nice change
for you.
GEORGE: What do you mean?
MRS PEARSON: It must be some time since you were
surprised at me, George.
GEORGE: I don’t like surprises I’m all for a steady
going on-you ought to know that by this time. By the way, I forgot to tell you
this morning I wouldn’t want any tea. Special snooker matches night at the club
tonight-an’ a bit of supper going. So no tea.
MRS PEARSON: That’s all right. There isn’t any.
GEORGE: [astonished] You mean you didn’t get any
ready? MRS PEARSON: Yes. And a good thing, too, as it’s turned out.
GEORGE (aggrieved] That’s all very well, but suppose
I’d wanted some?
MRS PEARSON: My goodness! Listen to the man! Annoyed
because I don’t get a tea for him that he doesn’t even want. Ever tried that at
the club?
GEORGE: Tried what at the club?
MRS PEARSON: Going up to the bar and telling ‘em you
don’t want a glass of beer but you’re annoyed because they haven’t already
poured it out. Try that on them and see what you get.
GEORGE: I don’t know what you’re talking about.
MRS PEARSON: They’d laugh at you even more than they
do now.
GEORGE: [indignantly] Laugh at me? They don’t laugh
at me.
MRS PEARSON: Of course they do. You ought to have
found that out by this time. Anybody else would have done. You’re one of their
standing jokes. Famous. They call you Pompy-ompy Pearson because they think
you’re so slow and pompous.
GEORGE: [horrified] Never!
MRS PEARSON: It’s always beaten me why you should
want to spend so much time at a place where they’re always laughing at you
behind your back and calling you names. Leaving your wife at home, night after
night. Instead of going out with her, who doesn’t make you look a fool...
OREDMI NOTE 8 lass of milk in one hand and a thick
slice of cake in the other. AI QUAD CAMERA almost gazed, turns to him
appealingly.]
GEORGE: Here, Cyril, you’ve been with me to the club
once or twice. They don’t laugh at M me and call me Pompy-ompy Pearson, do
they?
[Cyril, embarrassed, hesitates.] [Angrily] Go
on-tell me. Do they? CYRIL: [embarrassed] Well-yes, Dad, I’m afraid they do.
[George slowly looks from one to the other,
staggered.]
GEORGE: [slowly] Well-I’ll be-damned!
[George exits left, slowly, almost as if somebody
had hit him over the head. Cyril, after watching him go, turns indignantly to
Mrs Pearson.]
CYRIL: Now you shouldn’t have told him that, Mum.
That’s not fair. You’ve hurt his feelings. Mine, too.
MRS PEARSON: Sometimes it does people good to have
their feelings hurt. The truth oughtn’t to hurt anybody for long. If your
father didn’t go to the club so often, perhaps they’d stop laughing at him.
CYRIL: [gloomily] I doubt it.
MRS PEARSON: [severely] Possibly you do, but what I
doubt is whether your opinion’s worth having. What do you know? Nothing. You
spend too much time and good money at greyhound races and dirt tracks and ice
shows....
CYRIL: [sulkily] Well, what if I do? I’ve got to
enjoy myself somehow, haven’t 1?
MRS PEARSON: I wouldn’t mind so much if you were
really enjoying yourself. But are you? And where’s it getting you? [There is a
sharp hurried knocking heard off left.]
CYRIL: Might be for me. I’ll see. [Cyril hurries out
left. In a moment he re-enters, closing the door behind him.] It’s that silly
old bag from next door-Mrs Fitzgerald. You don’t want her here, do you?
MRS PEARSON: [sharply] Certainly I do. Ask her in.
And don’t call her a silly old bag either. She’s a very nice woman, with a lot
more sense than you’ll ever have.
[Cyril exits left. Mrs Pearson finishes her stout,
smacking her lips.
Cyril re-enters left, ushering in Mrs Fitzgerald,
who hesitates in the doorway.]
Come in, come in, Mrs Fitzgerald.
MRS FITZGERALD: [moving to left centre; anxiously]
-just wondered if everything’s all right....
CYRIL: [sulkily] No, it isn’t.
MRS PEARSON: [sharply] Of course it is. You be
quiet.
CYRIL: [indignantly and loudly] Why should I be
quiet?
MRS PEARSON: [shouting] Because I tell you to-you
silly, spoilt, young piecan.
MRS FITZGERALD: [protesting nervously]
Oh-no-surely... MRS PEARSON (severely] Now, Mrs Fitzgerald,
just let me manage my family in my own MAS
FITZGERALD: Yes--but Cyril...
CYRIL: (sulky and glowering) Mr Cyril Pearson to
you, please, Mrs Fitzgerald. [Cyril stalks off into the kitchen.] MRS
FITZGERALD: [moving to the settee; whispering] Oh-dear-what’s happening?
MAS PEARSON: [calmly] Nothing much. Just putting ‘em
in their places, that’s all. Doing what you ought to have done long since.
MRS FITZGERALD: Is George home? [She sits beside Mrs
Pearson on the settee.] MRS PEARSON: Yes. I’ve been telling him what they think
of him at the club.
MRS FITZGERALD: Well, they think a lot of him, don’t
they? MRS PEARSON: No, they don’t. And now he knows it.
MRS FITZGERALD: [nervously] On-dear-I wish you
hadn’t, Mrs Fitzgerald....
MRS PEARSON: Nonsense! Doing ‘em all a world of
good. And they’ll be eating out of your hand soon-you’ll see... MRS FITZGERALD:
I don’t think I want them eating out of my hand…
MRS PEARSON: [impatiently] Well, whatever you want,
they’ll be doing it all three of em. Mark my words, Mrs Pearson.
(George enters left glumly. He is unpleasantly
surprised when he sees the visitor. He moves to the armchair left, sits down
heavily and glumly lights his pipe. Then he looks from Mrs Pearson to Mrs
Fitzgerald, who is regarding him anxiously.]
GEORGE: Just looked in for a minute, I suppose, Mrs
Fitzgerald?
MRS FITZGERALD: [who doesn’t know what she is
saying] Well-yes-I suppose so, George.
GEORGE: [aghast] George!
MRS FITZGERALD: [nervously] Oh-I’m sorry...
MRS PEARSON: [impatiently] What does it matter? Your
name’s George, isn’t it? Who d’you think you are-Duke of Edinburgh?
GEORGE: [angrily] What’s he got to do with it? Just
tell me that. And isn’t it bad enough without her calling me George? No tea.
Pompy-ompy Pearson. And poor Doris has been crying her eyes out upstairs-yes,
crying her eyes out.
MRS FITZGERALD: [wailing] Oh-dear- ought to have
known...
GEORGE: (staring at her, annoyed] You ought to have
known! Why ought you to have known? Nothing to do with you, Mrs Fitzgerald.
Look-we’re at sixes and sevens here just now-so perhaps you’ll excuse us...
MRS PEARSON: [before Mrs Fitzgerald can reply] I
won’t excuse you, George Pearson, Next time a friend and neighbour comes to see
me, just say something when you see her-Good evening or How d’you do? or
something-an’ don’t just march in an’ sit down without a word. It’s bad manners...
MRS FITZGERALD: [nervously] No-it’s all right...
MRS PEARSON: No, it isn’t all right. We’ll have some
decent manners in this house-or I’ll know the reason why. [glaring at George]
Well?
GEORGE [intimidated] Well, what!
MRS PEARSON: [taunting him] Why don’t you get off to
your club? Special night tonight, isn’t it? They’ll be waiting for you-wanting
to have a good laugh. Go on then. Don’t disappoint ‘em.. .
GEORGE: [bitterly] That’s right. Make me look silly
in front of her now! Go on-don’t mind me. Sixes and sevens! Poor Doris been
crying her eyes out! Getting the neighbours in to see the fun! [suddenly losing
his temper, glaring at Mrs Pearson, and shouting] All right let her hear it.
What’s the matter with you?
Have you gone barmy-or what?
MRS PEARSON: [jumping up: savagely] If you shout at
me again like that, George Pearson, I’ll slap your big, fat, silly face...
MRS FITZGERALD: [moaning] Oh-no-no-no-please, Mrs
Fitzgerald... [Mrs Pearson sits.]
GEORGE: [staring at her, bewildered] Either I’m off
my chump or you two are. How d’you mean-’No, no- please, Mrs Fitzgerald’?
Look-you’re Mrs Fitzgerald. So why are you telling yourself to stop when you’re
not doing anything? Tell her to stop-then there’d be some sense in it. [Staring
at Mrs Pearson] I think you must be tiddly.
MRS PEARSON: [starting up; savagely] Say that again,
George Pearson.
GEORGE: [intimidated] All right-all right-all
right....
[Doris enters left slowly, looking miserable. She is
still wearing the wrap. Mrs Pearson sits on the settee.]
MRS FITZGERALD: Hello-Doris dear!
DORIS: [miserably] Hello-Mrs Fitzgerald!
MRS FITZGERALD: I thought you were going out with
Charlie Spence tonight.
DORIS: [annoyed] What’s that to do with you?
MRS PEARSON: [sharply] Stop that!
MRS FITZGERALD: [nervously] No-its all right...
MAS PEARSON: [severely] It isn’t all right. I won’t
have a daughter of mine talking to anybody like that. Now answer Mrs Fitzgerald
properly, Doris-or go upstairs again....
MRS PEARSON: [fiercely] Well? Answer her DORIS
[sulkily] I was going out with Charlie Spence tonight- but now I’ve called it
off...
MRS FITZGERALD: Oh-what a pity, dear! Why have you?
DORIS [with a flash of temper] Because-if you must know my mother’s been going
on at me making me feel miserable-an’ saying he’s got buck-teeth and is
half-witted.... MRS FITZGERALD: [rather bolder: to Mrs Pearson] Oh-you
shouldn’t have said that... MRS PEARSON: [sharply] Mrs Fitzgerald, I’ll manage
my family-you manage yours. GEORGE: [grimly] Ticking her off now, are you,
Annie?
MRS PEARSON: [even more grimly] They’re waiting for
you at the club, George, don’t forget. And don’t you start crying again,
Doris...
MRS FITZGERALD. [getting up with sudden decision]
That’s enough-quite enough. George and Doris stare at her bewildered.] [to
George and Doris] Now listen, you two. I want to have a private little talk
with Mrs Fitz-[she corrects herself hastily] with Mrs Pearson, so I’ll be
obliged if you’ll leave us alone for a few minutes. I’ll let you know when
we’ve finished. Go on, please. I promise you that you won’t regret it. There’s
something here that only I can deal with.
GEORGE: [rising] I’m glad somebody can-’cos I can’t.
Come on, Doris.
[George and Doris exit left. As they go Mrs
Fitzgerald moves to left of the small table and sits. She eagerly beckons Mrs
Pearson to do the same thing.]
MRS FITZGERALD: Mrs Fitzgerald, we must change back
now-we really must...
MRS PEARSON: [rising] Why?
MRS FITZGERALD: Because this has gone far enough. I
can see they’re all miserable and I can’t bear it....
MRS PEARSON: A bit more of the same would do ‘em
good. Making a great difference already... [She moves to right of the table and
sits.]
MRS FITZGERALD: No, I can’t stand any more of it-I
really can’t. We must change back. Hurry up, please, Mrs Fitzgerald.
MRS PEARSON: Well if you insist... MRS FITZGERALD:
Yes I do please please.
(She stretches her hand across the table eagerly.
Mrs Pearson takes them.]
MRS PEARSON Quiet now. Relax.
[Mrs Pearson and Mrs Fitzgerald stare at each other.
Muttering; exactly as before Arshtatta dum arshtatta lam-arshtatta lamdumbona.
They carry out the same action as before, going lax and then coming to life.
But this time, of course, they become their proper personalities.]
MRS FITZGERALD: Ah well-I enjoyed that.
MRS PEARSON: I didn’t.
MRS FITZGERALD: Well, you ought to have done.
Now-listen, Mrs Pearson. Don’t go soft on ‘em again, else it’ll all have been
wasted...
MRS PEARSON: I’ll try not to, Mrs Fitzgerald.
MRS FITZGERALD: They’ve not had as long as I’d like
to have given ‘em-another hour or two’s rough treatment might have made it
certain... MRS PEARSON: I’m sure they’ll do better now-though I don’t know how
I’m going to explain...
MRS FITZGERALD: [severely] Don’t you start any
explaining or apologising or you’re done for.
MRS PEARSON: [with spirit] It’s all right for you,
Mrs Fitzgerald. After all, they aren’t your husband and children....
MRS FITZGERALD: [impressively] Now you listen to me.
You admitted yourself you were spoiling ‘em- and they didn’t appreciate you.
Any apologies-any explanations-an’ you’ll be straight back where you were. I’m
warning you, dear. Just give ‘em a look-a tone of voice-now an’ again, to
suggest you might be
tough with ‘em if you wanted to be an’ it ought to
work. Anyhow, we can test it.
MRS PEARSON: How?
MRS FITZGERALD: Well, what is it you’d like ‘em to
do that they don’t do? Stop at home for once?
MRS PEARSON: Yes-and give me a hand with supper...
MRS FITZGERALD: Anything you’d like ‘em to do that
you enjoy whether they do or not?
MRS PEARSON: [hesitating] Well-yes. I-like a nice
game of rummy-but, of course, I hardly ever have one except at Christmas...
MRS FITZGERALD: [getting up] That’ll do then. [She
moves towards the door left then turns] But remember-keep firm-or you’ve had
it. [She opens the door. Calling] Hoy! You can come in now. [Coming away from
the door, and moving right slightly. Quietly] But remember-remember-a firm
hand.
[George, Doris and Cyril file in through the
doorway, looking apprehensively at Mrs Pearson.] I’m just off. To let you enjoy
yourself.
[The family looks anxiously at Mrs Pearson, who
smiles. Much relieved, they smile back at her]
DORIS (anxiously] Yes, Mother?
MRS PEARSON: [smiling] Seeing that you don’t want to
go out, I tell you what I thought we’d do.
MRS FITZGERALD: [giving a final warning] Remember!
MRS PEARSON: [nodding, then looking sharply at the
family] No objections, I hope? GEORGE [humbly] No, Mother-whatever you say...
MRS PEARSON: [smiling] I thought we’d have a nice
family game of rummy-and then you children could get the supper ready while I
have a talk with your father...
GEORGE: [firmly] Suits me. [He looks challengingly
at the children.] What about you two?
CYRIL:
[hastily] Yes-that’s all right.
DORIS: [hesitating] Well-...
MRS PEARSON: [sharply] What? Speak up!
DORIS: [hastily] Oh I think it would be lovely...
MRS PEARSON: [smiling] Good-bye, Mrs Fitzgerald.
Come again soon.
MRS FITZGERALD: Yes, dear. ‘Night all have a nice
time. [Mrs Fitzgerald exits left and the family cluster round Mother as the
curtain falls]
Glossary
Suburb: /ˈsʌbəːb/ An outlying district of a city, especially a
residential one
Muslin: /ˈmʌzlɪn/ Lightweight cotton cloth in a plain weave
Flurried: /ˈflʌrɪd/ Agitated, nervous, or anxious
Cockney: /ˈkɒkni/ Characteristic of cockneys or their dialect or accent
Dubious: /ˈdjuːbɪəs/ Hesitating or doubting.
Complacently: /kəmˈpleɪsnt/ Marked by self-satisfaction
especially when accompanied by unawareness of actual dangers or deficiencies
Incisive: To tell someone
about a feeling, opinion,
or aim by speaking or writing about
it
Laconic: /ləˈkɒnɪk/ Using very few words
Concussion: /kənˈkʌʃ(ə)n/ Temporary
unconsciousness or confusion caused by a blow on the head
Blubbering: /ˈblʌbə/ Cry noisily and uncontrollably
Aggrieved: /əˈɡriːvd/ Feeling resentment at
having been unfairly treated.
Stalk off: / stɔːk /To walk in a way that
shows you feel angry or offended
Q1. Does Mrs Pearson’s family take ‘notice’ of her? How is she
treated?
Mrs Fitzgerald remarks that husbands, sons, and daughters should take proper
notice of wives and mothers. However, Mrs Pearson’s family does not follow this
principle at all. She is treated with neglect and disrespect by all members of
her family.
Mrs Pearson is a devoted housewife who spends all her time doing household
work—cooking, washing, ironing, and serving her family. Despite her hard work,
her husband George, her son Cyril, and her daughter Doris take her for granted.
They treat her more like a servant than a mother or wife.
George Pearson is selfish and spends his time at the club, caring little
about his wife’s feelings. Cyril is rude and demanding, expecting his mother to
serve him without question. Doris is equally inconsiderate and only thinks
about her own social life, often ordering her mother around.
Mrs Pearson is left alone and unappreciated, even at night, after serving
everyone. Her family never acknowledges her sacrifices. Therefore, Mrs
Fitzgerald’s remark is absolutely justified, as Mrs Pearson’s family fails to
give her the respect and attention she deserves.
Q2. Discuss Mrs Fitzgerald’s role in the change in the Pearson
household.
Mrs Fitzgerald plays a crucial and transformative role in the play. She is a
strong, practical, and wise woman who understands Mrs Pearson’s suffering and
decides to help her.
When she sees how poorly Mrs Pearson is treated by her family, she advises
her to become firm and assertive. However, Mrs Pearson lacks the confidence to
do so. To solve this, Mrs Fitzgerald uses a magical method to exchange their
personalities temporarily.
After the transformation, Mrs Fitzgerald (in Mrs Pearson’s body) behaves
boldly and firmly with the family. She refuses to serve them, speaks sharply,
and makes them realize their mistakes. Her confident and fearless attitude
shocks the family and forces them to rethink their behaviour.
Thus, Mrs Fitzgerald acts as a catalyst for change. She not only helps Mrs
Pearson gain confidence but also teaches the family a valuable lesson about
respect and responsibility.
Q3. Compare Mrs Pearson’s personality before and after the change.
Mrs Pearson undergoes a remarkable transformation in her personality during
the play.
Before the change, she is timid, soft-spoken, and submissive.
She lacks confidence and allows her family to dominate her. She obeys their
orders without complaint and sacrifices her own comfort for their happiness.
She is unable to stand up for herself.
After the change, when she adopts Mrs Fitzgerald’s personality,
she becomes bold, confident, and assertive. She refuses to do unnecessary work,
speaks firmly, and even criticizes her family members openly. She no longer
tolerates disrespect and demands proper behaviour from them.
This contrast shows a complete transformation—from weakness to strength. The
change highlights the importance of self-respect and confidence in earning
respect from others.
Q4. Comment on the ending. Has the family changed for good?
Answer:
The play ends on a positive and hopeful note. By the end, the Pearson family
realizes their mistakes and begins to treat Mrs Pearson with respect. They
become obedient and attentive, and even show concern for her feelings.
Mrs Pearson, now confident and cheerful, takes control of the household. She
gives instructions calmly but firmly, and the family members willingly accept
her authority.
However, whether the change is permanent is uncertain. The play suggests
improvement, but it also leaves room for doubt. The family’s transformation may
last only if Mrs Pearson continues to assert herself.
Overall, the ending conveys an important message: respect must be earned and
maintained through self-confidence and firmness.
Exercise
2 – Choose the Correct Option
- Mrs. Fitzgerald spent in the East for — b. 12
- Mrs. Fitzgerald says that changing back to her earlier
self — b. is difficult
- Mrs. Pearson’s tone about Charlie Spence is — a.
Condescending
- George Pearson is described as — d. all of the above
- Mr. Pearson reacts when called George by — a. He is
surprised
- Mrs. Pearson refers to — a. Women’s Liberation
Movement
- On weekends the family expects — a. She will wait on
them
- George responds with — d. all of the above
- After the change Mrs. Pearson — c. is upset about
her family but wants to carry on for a bit longer
- The one who enjoys the changed situation most is — c.
Mrs. Fitzgerald
Exercise
3 – Meanings of Expressions
- Barmy — foolish
- Tiddly — slightly drunk
- Clot — a foolish person
- Rollin’ rat — close friend
- Fathead — a stupid person
- Yes-man — one who always agrees with superiors
- Wingman — a pilot flying beside/behind the leader
- Bumpkin — awkward rustic person
- Big daddy — boss
- Gold digger — person seeking money from others
- Mad hatter — crazy person
- Schmuck — foolish man
- Klutz — clumsy person
- Party pooper — one who spoils enjoyment
- Big mouth — person who talks too much
- Piecan — stupid person
Exercise
4 – Idioms and Phrasal Verbs
- Put one’s foot down — adopt a firm policy
- Easier said than done — difficult in practice
- Get cracking — start quickly
- At sixes and sevens — confused/disordered
- Tick off — scold someone
- Off one’s chump — extremely silly
- Feel off-colour — feel slightly ill
- Eat out of someone’s hand — be under control
- Put someone in place — humiliate someone
- Act one’s age — behave maturely
Exercise
5 – Antonyms of Adverbs
- Dubiously — approvingly
- Complacently — anxiously
- Indignantly — delightfully
- Sulkily — cheerfully
- Aggressively — gently
- Coldly — warmly
- Promptly — slowly
- Glumly — joyfully
- Briskly — slowly
- Contentedly — unhappily
Exercise
6 – Word Forms
|
S.No |
Adverb |
Noun |
Adjective |
Verb |
|
1 |
Bewilderedly |
Bewilderment |
Bewildered |
Bewilder |
|
2 |
Embarrassingly |
Embarrassment |
Embarrassed |
Embarrass |
|
3 |
Severely |
Severity |
Severe |
Sever |
|
4 |
Indignantly |
Indignation |
Indignant |
Indignate |
|
5 |
Promptly |
Promptness |
Prompt |
Prompt |
|
6 |
Alarmingly |
Alarm |
Alarming |
Alarm |
|
7 |
Contentedly |
Contentment |
Contented |
Content |
|
8 |
Aggressively |
Aggression |
Aggressive |
Aggress |
|
9 |
Anxiously |
Anxiety |
Anxious |
Anxiate |
|
10 |
Sharply |
Sharpness |
Sharp |
Sharpen |
Exercise
7 – Supernatural Phenomena
- Talisman
- Tantra
- Mandrake
- Banshee
- Voodoo
- Shaman
- Cabala / Kabbalah
- Thaumaturgy
- Necromancy
- Abracadabra
Exercise
8 – Indirect Speech
Cyril greeted Mrs. Pearson and asked
her whether the tea was ready. Mrs. Pearson replied that it was not. Cyril
asked angrily why it was not ready. Mrs. Pearson replied coolly that she could
not be bothered. Cyril then asked whether she was feeling off-colour or
something. Mrs. Pearson replied that she had never felt better in her life.
Exercise
9 – Types of Sentences & Punctuation
- How well she cooks! — Exclamatory
- Did Mina say anything to make you smile? — Interrogative
- How well do you know him? — Interrogative
- She is a successful anchor. — Assertive
- It is raining cats and dogs. — Assertive
- I want to become an astronaut. — Assertive
- She does not eat any vegetables. — Assertive
- Come at one. — Imperative
Exercise
10 – Transformation of Sentences
- How sweet lavender smells!
- What have I done to offend you?
- Clean the room.
- It is a pity that they have not come.
- Is a thing of beauty a joy forever?
- What a long time since I heard from you!
- She looked this way and that.
- How badly the room stinks!
Exercise
11 – Identify Sentence Type
- He purchased a new book yesterday. — S
- I invited him, but he didn’t come. — CP
- Seema will give you the watch. — S
- They will lose the game if they don’t try harder. — CM
- We shall pay them a visit soon. — S
- As the market was closed, I bought nothing. — CM
- The gardener plucked a rose and gave it to the visitor.
— CP
- The children packed up before the bell rang. — CM
Exercise
12 – Coordinating Conjunctions & Clauses
- I met a stranger and talked to him.
- Clauses:
- I met a stranger
- talked to him
- Sit still or else leave the classroom.
- Clauses:
- Sit still
- leave the classroom
- Ramiz threw the stone, but it missed the bird.
- Clauses:
- Ramiz threw the stone
- it missed the bird
- The lion is bold as well as fierce.
- Clauses/phrases:
- The lion is bold
- fierce
- Behave or I will call your parents.
- Clauses:
- Behave
- I will call your parents
Exercise
13 – Subordinating Conjunctions & Clauses
- I couldn’t hear you because the television was
on.
- Main clause: I couldn’t hear you
- Subordinate clause: because the television was on
- Handsome is as handsome does.
- Main clause: Handsome is
- Subordinate clause: as handsome does
- When
the cat is away, the mice will play.
- Subordinate clause: when the cat is away
- Main clause: the mice will play
- The bag which you are carrying is expensive.
- Main clause: The bag is expensive
- Subordinate clause: which you are carrying
- I went for a run though it was drizzling.
- Main clause: I went for a run
- Subordinate clause: though it was drizzling
