The Inspector’s forewarning suggests that societal wrongs will inevitably result in suffering, invoking the principle of retributive justice. The phrase “heavier price” hints at emotional and psychological consequences, suggesting that guilt and regret will haunt the characters long after the Inspector departs.
Alternative interpretation
This line could also reflect spiritual retribution, suggesting that moral failings will be punished by forces beyond human control. Priestley might be invoking divine or cosmic justice to emphasize the universality of his message.
Themes
Retribution: Highlights the inevitability of moral consequences.
Emotional Consequences: Explores the lasting impact of guilt.
Social Accountability: Links personal failure to systemic collapse.
Writers intention
Priestley uses the Inspector’s warning to stress the inescapability of justice, whether personal, societal, or cosmic. This reinforces his message that ignoring moral responsibility will lead to broader suffering.
