Flynn monologue from Doubt: A Parable

Flynn’s monologue

It’s me that cares about that boy, not her. Has she ever reached out a hand to that child or any child in this school? She's a block of ice! Children need warmth, kindness, understanding! What does she give them? Rules. That black boy needs a helping hand or he’s not going to make it here! But if she has her way, he’ll be left to his own undoing. Why do you think he was in the sacristy drinking wine that day? He’s in trouble! She sees me talk in a human way to these children and she immediately assumes there must be something wrong with it. Something dirty. Well, I’m not going to let her keep this parish in the Dark Ages! And I’m not going to let her destroy my spirit of compassion!

SISTER JAMES: I'm sure that's not her intent.

I care about this congregation!

SISTER JAMES: I know you do.

Like you care about your class! You love them, don't you?

SISTER JAMES: Yes.

That's natural. How else would you relate to children? I can look at your face and know your philosophy: kindness.

SISTER JAMES: I don't know. I mean, of course.

What is Sister Aloysius’ philosophy do you suppose?

SISTER JAMES: I don't have to suppose. She's told me. She discourages... warmth. She's suggest I be more... formal.

There are people who go after your humanity, Sister James, who tell you the light in your heart is a weakness. That your soft feelings betray you. I don’t believe that. It’s an old tactic of the cruel people to kill kindness in the name of virtue. Don’t believe it. There’s nothing wrong with love.

SISTER JAMES: Of course not, but...

Have you forgotten hat was the message of the Savior to us all? Love. Not suspicion, disapproval and judgement. Love of people. Have you found Sister Aloysius a positive inspiration?

Excerpt for study and audition practice. Read the full play for context.