No doubt about it, we’re fighting war. But where – or who – is the enemy ? What do you believe ? What is ‘information’ and what is ‘propaganda’ ?
And if you do see the enemy what exactly will you do ?
Invisible foes tend to make make you feel a little powerless or impotent. You want to be on your guard, but against whom ? How will you know when an attack is taking place ? And how should you react ?
This situation causes me to identify somewhat with the aged servicemen of Dad’s Army; such a wide ranging variety of personality types, any psychologist could have a field day just sitting in on a parade. And I think that’s what made it such a special show; anyone watching could identify with somebody in the cast.
So in today’s invisible war – who are you ?
Captain Mainwaring was in charge by dint of his being the bank manager – logic that escaped most of his “platoon” – but in charge of of what ? Did he even know how to lead ? I understand Arthur Lowe often performed half drunk, and this only added to his air of distracted self importance. He basically failed in the one task he set for himself: that of leading.
Private Pike. More often than not, he was literally a “stupid boy”. He listened more to his Mum than his “commanding officer” and his only thoughts were to get home before he caught cold.
Sergeant Wilson. Very similar character, just much much much older, and possibly related. His unrealized goal in life seemed to be annoy Mainwaring, but hadn’t really a serious view of the world or imminent attack. His main concern was not getting gin & tonic on his gloves.
Jones, whose signature catch phrase of “Don’t Panic” caused nothing but panic (much like a government broadcast) – but usually only for himself.
Fraser was utter doom and gloom from morning to night, Godfrey was far too old to be good for anything, and could never be further than 30 seconds away from the toilet.
There were a host of other part time retired soldiers who filled in gaps in the spectrum of senile old “has-beens”.. the Warden – just yells at everyone, the verger and the reverend dithering around making sure no one messed up the church hall during parades and various other extreme personality disorders on display.
But, you know, now that I think back to the disaster that could’ve been upon them at any moment.. you know who seems to me to be the unsung success in hind sight ? Who always had half a smile on his face and a fag in his mouth – not to mention a smart retort.. who could sell you nylons or a used tommy gun – or knew a man who had one… Who was definitely making the best of it despite rations and imminent danger ?
Private Joe Walker. Walker wasn’t floored by Mainwaring’s overbearing narcissism, didn’t panic at Jones, wasn’t weighed down by Fraser’s gloom. Could see a quick bob to be made around every corner – and basically, made the best of it. If Germans had successfully invaded, he would’ve been there to sell them guide books (probably out of date or misprinted, but still…) – not that he was a traitor, just looking on the bright side no matter what.
So in this war we call a pandemic, with an invisible enemy, and no really useful weapons – who do you want to be ? Jones ? Fraser ? Pike ?
Well, me.. I want to be Walker.
Otherwise we may as well all be tucked up in Pike’s maroon scarf and fighting Godfrey for the little boys’ room.
