Distortion and Decay in Family Relationship i...

Distortion and Decay in Family Relationship in Eugene O‟Neill‟s Strange Interlude

Author Name : Dr. Balwan Singh

If one talks about the concept of „General Will‟, one cannot but start oscillating between two types of „Wills‟, i.e., „actual will‟ and „real will‟. The „actual will‟ of the individual is his impulsive and irrational will. This „actual will‟ is transient and conceives of the present only. It is based on self interest and is not related to the well being of society. Such a will is narrow and self-conflicting. On the other hand, the real will of the individual is a rational will which wills his real interest in relation to the general welfare of the society. „Real will‟ thinks more of common good or interest than the good of the individual. „Real will‟ of the individual therefore, promotes harmony between the individual and the society. When one follows the commands of one‟s actual will and disregards real will or „General Will‟ of the community disturbance and decay sets in one‟s relationships.