Monologue Analysis: Alligators by Andrew Keatley
Synopsis
In Andrew Keatley’s play Alligators, the central character reflects on themes of family, loyalty, and the moral ambiguities of the past. This monologue offers a raw, emotional insight into the struggles faced by the protagonist as they confront a deeply personal conflict.
What’s Just Happened Before This Moment That’s Relevant to the Scene?
Before this monologue, the character is faced with allegations that threaten to unravel their life and reputation. They grapple with the weight of past actions and the subjective nature of truth, leading to this intense and revealing moment. This emotional backdrop sets the stage for a monologue that is both confessional and defensive, as the character seeks to reconcile with their internal struggles.
Original Text
A girl... this girl from – well, woman – she’s twenty now. She was a student
at – she was one of my students. She’s... she says that I... she’s made
allegations that I assaulted her. That I... that I sexually assaulted her. [...]
Rachel says that as things stand she doesn’t think they have enough to charge
me, but... (With a burst.) There are things that I don’t want you to hear, Sal!
Please! I’m trying to protect you from... I’m not perfect. I put my hands up. I’m
not perfect. But neither is anyone else. I’m just... I’m just the same as everybody
else. Everyone has done things that they’re not proud of. You... you scratch the
surface of anyone’s life and you’ll find things – things that they don’t want
anyone else to know – things that make them feel like a lesser person – things
that they want to keep in a box and hide from the world. And so that’s what they
do; they hide their box away, hoping nobody ever gets to see inside. And they
don’t, until... Because you can do a thousand good things. You can have a
thousand people stand up and say ‘I know that man. That’s a good man. He’s a
good father – he’s a good husband – he’s a good member of the community.’
But as soon as someone points at him and says that maybe he’s not – maybe he’s
bad – maybe he’s evil – then it undoes everything. And I mean everybody –
everybody – is just one allegation away from this happening to them. But
because I’m the one who was pointed at the world suddenly has the right to
circle on me – to corner me and empty my box so that everybody can root
around and judge me – and I can’t do anything to stop it. That’s... It’s... it’s
terrifying. But to have the people that know you – that you love and that love
you – see those things too that... hear about those things too... well, that just...
The thought of it... So I don’t want you to look inside. I want to save you from
that. Because it’s... I don’t think my heart can take it. And I’m scared that yours
can’t either.
Breakdown of Text
Opening: The monologue begins with the character introducing a pivotal person from their past, framing their story with a mix of regret and reflection.
Reflection: The character recounts their interactions with this person, emphasizing the innocence of their intentions and the complexity of their relationship.
Conflict: The monologue reaches a turning point as the character reveals the accusation that altered their life. The tone becomes defensive yet filled with sorrow.
Climax: The character admits the devastating impact of the past accusation and the fear of its recurrence. This section is deeply emotional and raw.
Resolution: The speech concludes with an expression of vulnerability, as the character admits their limits and fears, seeking understanding and support.
About the Playwright: Andrew Keatley
Andrew Keatley is a distinguished playwright known for exploring complex family dynamics and moral dilemmas. His notable works include The Gathered Leaves and Goats, which delve into themes of identity, relationships, and the passage of time. Keatley’s writing often presents deeply human and emotionally resonant stories, making his plays a rich resource for actors and audiences alike.
Conclusion
This monologue from Alligators is a challenging yet rewarding piece for any actor. It offers the opportunity to explore deep emotional layers and to engage the audience with a story of personal conflict and moral complexity.
If you’re preparing this monologue for an audition or performance, Acting Coach Scotland can provide tailored guidance to help you refine your delivery and bring this powerful piece to life. Contact us today to start work!