Summary

If I Were You by Douglas James is a thrilling play that revolves around a dramatist, Gerrard, and an intruder who tries to take over his identity. The play explores themes of quick thinking, wit, and the importance of staying calm in dangerous situations.

The story begins with Gerrard, a dramatist, preparing to leave for a rehearsal when an intruder suddenly enters his house. The intruder, holding a revolver, demands that Gerrard raise his hands. Surprisingly, Gerrard remains calm and engages the intruder in conversation, asking him his name and discussing trivial matters as though there’s no threat.

The intruder reveals that he is a criminal who has committed robbery and even killed a policeman. He plans to kill Gerrard and take his identity in order to escape from the law. However, Gerrard cleverly manipulates the situation by telling the intruder that he leads a mysterious life and that the police are after him for a murder he committed. He convinces the intruder that if he kills him, the police would immediately arrest him due to Gerrard’s past misdeeds.

The intruder, believing Gerrard’s story, follows his advice and goes to the garage to escape through a hidden route. Gerrard seizes the opportunity and locks the intruder in a cupboard. He then contacts the police, who arrive and arrest the criminal.

The play concludes with Gerrard’s quick thinking and resourcefulness saving his life. The story teaches students the importance of staying calm under pressure and thinking rationally to navigate difficult situations.