Eva Smith's Diary: A Pivotal Moment in An Inspector Calls
The discovery of Eva Smith's diary represents a crucial turning point in An Inspector Calls, revealing the deep emotional impact of her relationship with Gerald Croft. Through the Inspector's revelation of Eva's private thoughts, we gain unprecedented insight into her character's inner world and the devastating effects of her experiences with the Birling family.
Quote: "She had to go away and be quiet and remember... just to make it last longer. She felt there'd never be anything as good again for her so she had to make it last longer."
The diary entry illuminates Eva's psychological state and adds layers of complexity to her character development. This intimate glimpse into her thoughts transforms her from a mere victim into a fully realized person with hopes, dreams, and profound emotional depth. The diary serves as tangible evidence of her existence and suffering, making it harder for characters like Mr Birling and Mrs Birling to dismiss her as just another working-class girl.
Inspector Goole's delivery of this diary revelation is particularly significant. His unusually personal tone when discussing the diary entry has led many scholars to speculate about his true connection to Eva Smith. Some interpretations suggest he could be a supernatural entity, perhaps even Eva's ghost seeking justice, while others view him as a manifestation of social conscience. This ambiguity adds to the play's mysterious atmosphere and deeper themes about responsibility and guilt.
Highlight: The diary serves multiple dramatic functions:
- Provides concrete evidence of Eva's existence
- Humanizes her character through personal thoughts
- Creates dramatic tension through the Inspector's delivery
- Challenges the Birling family's dismissive attitudes
- Adds supernatural elements to the Inspector's character