What's the stick Roy carries?
He carries it when he meets Myra and after the candlelight club. Not long enough for a cane?
shareI am speculating because I didn't catch the scene in question. However,
It is probably a "swagger stick." It was military custom in the British army in the late 19th century through about half of the 20th century to carry a cane, riding crop, or other short stick as a badge of office. In some cases it became an official part of the uniform. The tradition was picked up by many American military officers about the same time, but was never officially recognized and was mostly out of style by WW II. The tradition goes back to Roman times and in my opinion probably came into vogue because swords ceased to be useful on the battlefield, in fact, they could even be an impediment.
There is also a military tradition that an officer should never be encumbered (have his hands full). But, they are still human and often need to do something with their hands. Playing with a stick is better than some other things that one might do. When one needs both hands, it is easy to tuck the stick under one's arm.
Thanks, dannieboy20906!!!!
shareYes, but I thought only officers carried them. Roy was not an officer.
I guess it's like looking at clouds. You see one thing and I see another. Peace.
Since entering into this discussion I have watched it on TCM. It was several weeks ago and they ran both versions, comparing them. Unfortunately, I don't remember what rank Roy was in either version and never even noticed the stick. Shows you how much I focus, doesn't it?
Yes, swagger sticks are an officer affectation. Enlisted soldiers would be frowned on for carrying one. In fact, under the right circumstances, such as if an officer interprets what he sees as a parody of an officer, the enlisted soldier might be charged with insubordination. If I see the film coming up again and remember to do so, I will watch and make notes.
Thank you for keeping the mystery open, parisel.
Roy explains that he probably could have had a commission, but in a youthful burst of zeal, enlisted.
I guess it's like looking at clouds. You see one thing and I see another. Peace.