Today we’re exploring a fascinating storytelling technique – the central speech that reveals who a character, whether its the protagonist or antagonist, truly is. This isn’t just any speech—it’s a moment that drills down to the core of your character, not only through the words spoken but also through the subtext, the gaps, and the delivery. And to illustrate this, let’s look at one of the most iconic speeches in film history: Colonel Jessup’s ‘You can’t handle the truth!’ from A Few Good Men.

The film is a courtroom drama that builds up to a climactic moment where Tom Cruise’s character, Lt. Daniel Kaffee, confronts Colonel Nathan Jessup, played by Jack Nicholson. Kaffee’s been trying to uncover the truth behind the death of a Marine, and Jessup’s testimony is crucial. In a high-tension exchange, Jessup explodes with the now-famous line, ‘You can’t handle the truth!’ But this outburst is more than just a memorable quote—it’s a window into Jessup’s character and the film’s central themes. So let’s break down what this speech reveals and how it uses camouflaged exposition to do so.

1. The Words Reveal the Character’s Philosophy

Firstly, let’s talk about the obvious: the words themselves. Jessup’s speech lays bare his worldview—a harsh, unapologetic belief in the necessity of tough decisions to maintain order. He believes in a clear, almost brutal hierarchy where the ends justify the means. When he says, ‘You can’t handle the truth,’ he’s not just addressing Kaffee, but the entire system that he feels doesn’t understand the brutal realities of the world he operates in. Jessup sees himself as the protector of a fragile society, doing what others can’t or won’t do. Through his words, the audience gets a direct insight into his moral code, which, while twisted, is internally consistent. This is crucial for any central speech—use it to reveal the protagonist’s, or in this case, the antagonist’s, core beliefs.

2. Subtext: What’s Left Unsaid

But a powerful speech isn’t just about what’s said—it’s also about what’s left unsaid. Jessup’s speech is full of subtext. He talks about defending the country, but there’s an undercurrent of disdain for those who question his methods. His words suggest that he feels underappreciated, even persecuted, for the sacrifices he believes he’s made. The subtext here is a mix of arrogance and resentment, emotions that are only hinted at but never fully expressed. This is a great example of camouflaged exposition—where the true feelings of a character are conveyed between the lines. When writing your own central speech, think about what your character might be holding back. What emotions or thoughts are they struggling to keep under control? That tension adds depth and intrigue.

”The truth? You can’t handle the truth!”

3. Delivery and Demeanour

Now, let’s talk about the delivery. Jessup’s words are powerful, but it’s Nicholson’s performance that makes them unforgettable. His calm, almost condescending tone at the start contrasts sharply with the explosive anger that follows. His demeanor is a mix of controlled authority and barely-contained fury. This change in tone reflects the internal conflict within Jessup—he’s a man who believes in his own righteousness but is also deeply frustrated by those who challenge him. The way characters deliver their speech reveals the hidden layers of personality—are they calm and collected, or do they crack under pressure? Are they confident, or is their bravado a cover for insecurity? In your own writing, consider how the manner in which a speech is delivered can convey more about what is meant rather than what the words denote on the surface.

4. The Reaction of Others

Lastly, let’s not stress the importance of the other characters’ reactions. In A Few Good Men, the reactions of the courtroom—especially Kaffee—are crucial to understanding Jessup’s speech. Kaffee’s shock and determination show that he’s not cowed by Jessup’s tirade, but instead, he’s motivated to dig even deeper. The audience sees Jessup as powerful, but also as someone who’s finally been cornered. The reactions of others in the scene help to highlight the true nature of the protagonist—whether it’s the protagonist themselves delivering the speech, or someone else reacting to it. When you’re writing a central speech in your story, think about how other characters will respond. Their reactions can reinforce or contradict what the protagonist is saying, adding another layer of complexity to the scene.

Summary

So, there you have it, four key points on how a central speech can reveal who your character really is. Remember: it’s not just about the words, but also about their subtext, their delivery, and the reactions of those around them.

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