Sorry, Wrong Number

One of the primary themes in Sorry, Wrong Number is the importance of communication in relationships, and the dangers of miscommunication. The telephone in the play acts as a symbol for this theme, and Mrs. Stevenson’s relationship with the phone soon proves to represent her relationship with Elbert. Mrs. Stevenson once found the phone reliable; it was her way of reaching people when she was isolated in her room. Now, she is experiencing difficulties with the phone for the first time, just as she is having trouble connecting with her husband for the first time. She is dependent on him and refuses to believe that he would leave her all alone. When she receives the telegram from Western Union declaring he won’t return before tomorrow afternoon, she cries, “Oh—Elbert, how could you?” (19), expressing feelings of betrayal that may indicate he has motive for planning her murder. The wires crossing, getting the busy signal, and finally receiving the telegram all allude to the deterioration of a relationship based on a breakdown of communication. Mrs. Stevenson’s struggle to communicate effectively extends beyond her marriage, with deadly consequences.

A major factor in the miscommunication between Mrs.