Structurally, Priestley places this quote at the climax of the Inspector’s final speech in Act 3, using it as a turning point where moral instruction replaces interrogation. The repetition of “millions” builds a crescendo, intensifying the urgency and emotional weight of his message. It overwhelms both characters and audience, mirroring the infinite scale of social injustice. The flowing, almost breathless rhythm created by the repeated phrase also reflects the Inspector’s moral frenzy and growing frustration. By ending the phrase with “Eva Smiths,” Priestley shifts focus from statistics to individual human lives, leaving the audience with a lasting emotional impact before the Inspector’s exit.
