Aunt Jane is a pivotal character in the one-act play “The Never Never Nest” by Cedric Mount. She is portrayed as a practical, sensible, and somewhat traditional woman who serves as a voice of reason in contrast to the other characters’ imprudent financial behavior.
Practical and Sensible
Aunt Jane is characterized by her strong sense of practicality. She values financial stability and believes in living within one’s means. Unlike her niece Jill and her husband Jack, who have furnished their home and bought various luxuries on installment plans, Aunt Jane believes in the importance of owning things outright. Her approach to finances is grounded in common sense, and she is concerned about the couple’s reliance on credit.
Traditional and Conservative
Aunt Jane’s traditional values are evident in her disapproval of the modern practice of buying things on credit. She is conservative in her financial philosophy, preferring to save money and make purchases only when she can afford to pay for them in full. This attitude reflects her broader outlook on life, where caution and careful planning are paramount.
Concerned and Caring
Despite her stern outlook, Aunt Jane cares deeply about her niece and her family. Her concerns about their financial situation stem from genuine worry for their future well-being. She is shocked to learn that even the baby’s medical expenses were paid for on installments, which highlights her concern that Jill and Jack’s carefree spending habits could lead to serious trouble.
Disapproving Yet Generous
Although Aunt Jane disapproves of Jack and Jill’s financial choices, she is also generous. She gives them a £10 note, hoping it will help them pay off some of their debt. However, her gesture is met with irony when it is revealed that they used the money to make a down payment on a new item rather than reducing their debt. This moment emphasizes the stark difference between Aunt Jane’s values and the younger couple’s reckless approach to finances.
Conclusion
Aunt Jane is a well-meaning, practical woman who serves as a foil to the more carefree and impulsive characters in “The Never Never Nest.” Her character embodies traditional values of thrift and responsibility, and her concerns highlight the potential dangers of living beyond one’s means. Through Aunt Jane, the play conveys a moral lesson about the importance of financial prudence and the risks associated with excessive reliance on credit.
