Findlay’s Monologue from Close Quarters by Kate Bowen
"I’d never even heard of Estonia before we got sent there..."
Overview of Close Quarters
Close Quarters by Kate Bowen is a compelling play about women in the military, exploring themes of camaraderie, survival, and identity. Set against the backdrop of NATO’s deployment to Estonia, the play delves into the challenges faced by soldiers on the frontline and the personal histories that shape their experiences. Findlay’s monologue captures a blend of humour, resilience, and introspection, offering a powerful insight into her character and the dynamics of military life.
Character Breakdown: Findlay
Name: Findlay
Age: Late teens to early 20s
Background: Findlay is a young soldier from Greenock, Scotland, navigating the complexities of military life while reflecting on her upbringing and her bond with Alison Cormack, a childhood friend and fellow soldier.
Who the Character is Talking To in This Moment: Findlay addresses the audience directly, recounting her story with a mix of humour and raw emotion. She draws us into her experiences, reflecting on both her past and present.
What’s Just Happened: The monologue unfolds as Findlay reflects on her deployment to Estonia with NATO, her formative years in Greenock, and the pivotal relationships and experiences that shaped her path into the military.
The Monologue
"I’d never even heard of Estonia before we got sent there. I expect they’d no heard a whole lot about Greenock. That’s near Glasgow. In Scotland. Youse can google it later.
Estonia’s got this border, with Russia, it’s three-hunner kilometres long but – it’s no exactly been agreed. They’re no exactly in agreement about where it is – starts, finishes, that kinda thing.
We was there to reassure our allies. We’re very reassuring, the British infantry.
In actual fact, we was a tripwire. No one wanted anything to kick off. No NATO. No the Russians. But if it did, we would just stop them rolling unchallenged into Estonia. Cos the thing about the Russian army is – there’s hunners of them. Really, a lot. And bear in mind, this is after Trump pulled out. Nice image that.
[...] Wee Alison Cormack – This gallus big lad Brian Armstrong. Hard man on the surface, soft as a doughnut underneath.
Some wild Welsh woman with the filthiest mind on the planet.
Our Sergeant, a London geezer, first I’d ever met. Best I’d ever meet. An me. Side by side in a platoon of twenty-five men.
[...] And wee Alison Cormack, she didnay just follow me up a mountain, she followed me – all the way to Estonia. To the edge of Europe, where if you turn to the east there’s Russia, stretching into the far distance, bigger than either of us could grasp."
Suggested New Thoughts Chunking / Paragraphing
“I’d never even heard of Estonia before we got sent there. I expect they’d no heard a whole lot about Greenock. That’s near Glasgow. In Scotland. Youse can google it later.”
Commentary: The conversational and humorous tone sets the stage, reflecting Findlay’s Scottish roots and relatable personality. Actors should embrace the light-heartedness here, connecting with the audience through wit and charm.
“Estonia’s got this border, with Russia, it’s three-hunner kilometres long but – it’s no exactly been agreed. They’re no exactly in agreement about where it is – starts, finishes, that kinda thing. We was there to reassure our allies. We’re very reassuring, the British infantry.”
Commentary: This section highlights the geopolitical tension and the precariousness of Findlay’s mission. Actors can deliver this with a sense of irony, underlining the absurdity and gravity of their role as a “tripwire.”
“In actual fact, we was a tripwire. No one wanted anything to kick off. No NATO. No the Russians. But if it did, we would just stop them rolling unchallenged into Estonia. Cos the thing about the Russian army is – there’s hunners of them. Really, a lot. And bear in mind, this is after Trump pulled out. Nice image that.”
Commentary: This section blends humour with an undercurrent of fear. Actors should explore the contrast between Findlay’s dry wit and the looming danger of the Russian army.
“Wee Alison Cormack – This gallus big lad Brian Armstrong. Hard man on the surface, soft as a doughnut underneath. Some wild Welsh woman with the filthiest mind on the planet. Our Sergeant, a London geezer, first I’d ever met. Best I’d ever meet. An me. Side by side in a platoon of twenty-five men.”
Commentary: Findlay introduces her platoon with affection and camaraderie. Actors can use this moment to show the bond and diversity within the group, capturing the warmth and mutual respect.
“And wee Alison Cormack, she didnay just follow me up a mountain, she followed me – all the way to Estonia. To the edge of Europe, where if you turn to the east there’s Russia, stretching into the far distance, bigger than either of us could grasp.”
Commentary: The monologue’s conclusion ties together Findlay’s personal history with the larger geopolitical context. Actors should emphasize the sense of awe and vulnerability, letting the audience feel the weight of the moment.
Journey Keypoints
Hook: Findlay’s casual introduction to Estonia and Greenock establishes a relatable and humorous tone.
Turning Point: The description of the Russian threat and the reality of being a “tripwire” adds tension and stakes.
Climax: The reflection on Alison Cormack and the journey to Estonia highlights Findlay’s loyalty and the depth of their bond.
Resolution: The imagery of Russia stretching into the distance underscores the overwhelming scale of the conflict and Findlay’s place within it.
Performance Tips
Blend Humour and Seriousness:
Findlay’s monologue moves fluidly between light-hearted anecdotes and reflections on military life. Balance the humour with moments of gravity to create a layered performance.Show Camaraderie:
The descriptions of her platoon and her friendship with Alison Cormack are filled with warmth. Use these moments to highlight Findlay’s deep connections.Convey Awe and Vulnerability:
The final lines about standing on the edge of Europe looking towards Russia carry a mix of wonder and trepidation. Let these emotions shine through.
Learn with Acting Coach Scotland
Monologues like Findlay’s demand versatility and emotional depth. At Acting Coach Scotland, we help actors master the balance between humour, introspection, and dramatic tension. Whether you’re preparing for an audition or refining your craft, we’re here to guide you.
