The Long and the Short and the Tall: sub-text

Expression of Inner Thoughts and Feelings

Subtext forms an integral part of ‘The Long and the Short and the Tall’ as the soldiers’ internal thoughts and feelings are often implied rather than stated outright.
Characters’ true intentions and emotions are hidden beneath their outward dialogue and actions, creating added layers of meaning.
This indirect communication intensifies the audience’s engagement as they must infer the underlying emotions and motivations behind the characters’ words.

Use of Irony

The extensive use of ironic comments throughout the play conveys messages that contrast with the literal words spoken by the characters.
This irony acts as a mode of subtextual communication that exposes the harsh reality of war, highlighting its futility and descent into madness.
This hidden layer of meaning often contrasts strongly with the superficial camaraderie and banter among the soldiers, highlighting their disillusionment and fear.

Non-verbal Communication

Non-verbal cues, such as body language and facial expressions, play a critical role in expressing the subtext of the characters’ feelings.
These subtle cues can imply fear, anxiety, or hostility, thus conveying the underlying tension and internal struggles within the soldiers, which their words might not express.
Non-verbal communication thereby plays a vital role in unveiling the characters’ genuine emotions to the audience, providing a profound understanding of their complex human experiences.

Alteration of Characters’ Persona

Characters often alter their persona as a form of defensive mechanism, disguising their fears or insecurities with toughness or callousness.
For instance, Bamforth, despite his macho exterior, exhibits a caring side when he empathises with the Japanese prisoner, revealing his internal humaneness which contradicts his overtly tough demeanour.
These changes in characters’ persona are instrumental in revealing the subtextual nuances of their personalities and the emotional turmoil they encounter in their tenuous situation.

Cultural and Social Context

The subtext of ‘The Long and the Short and the Tall’ is also shaped by its cultural and social context, as evident in the soldiers’ attitudes towards the Japanese soldier.
Their prejudices and assumptions about the enemy contribute to the tension-filled atmosphere while providing deeper insights into their characters.
The cultural influences on their behaviour reflect the deeply ingrained stereotypes and attitudes of their time, adding another layer to the subtext.