The pince-nez that Rudyard forces Jack to wear symbolizes his obsession with turning his son into a reputable, distinguished young man. Rudyard fusses over Jack’s physical image, believing that the boy should wear a pince-nez (glasses without the earpieces) instead of regular glasses because this will give army doctors the “impression” that Jack is a refined gentleman—and this, he hopes, will possibly distract them from the fact that Jack can hardly see without eyewear. However, the pince-nez causes Jack great trouble because it keeps slipping off his face when he tries to practice what he’ll say to the army doctors. The fact that the pince-nez actually works against him—making it harder for him to simply stand still and deliver a short monologue—is therefore a perfect representation of how Rudyard’s overbearing nature burdens Jack, even though Rudyard supposedly wants to help him.
The Pince-Nez Quotes in My Boy Jack
RUDYARD. Well, they'll check you over, they might want a bit of a chat ...(He looks at JOHN’s suit.)The kit is first-rate…where's your pince-nez?
JOHN. I can't get to grips with it.
RUDYARD. Well you must. They give a man a different expression as compared to spectacles.
JOHN. It won't stay on my nose.
RUDYARD. Have you got it about you?
JOHN. I think so.
RUDYARD. Well, let's have a look—Pop it on.
JOHN. I don't want to wear it.
RUDYARD. Jack, we need the overall impression. Pop it on please.
JOHN. I can't see how this will make any difference to my chances. If the Army is desperate for recruits they won't mind a pair of specs.
RUDYARD. Jack, the Navy has already rejected you once. Your eyes are a serious stumbling block. Your performance this afternoon is very important, and the first impression you give is vital. You've got to take a big pull on yourself and really dig out.
JOHN. I'm doing my best Daddo. I won't let you down.
SPARKS. […] this is very severe myopia ...we couldn't possibly… (He turns to POTTLE for help.)
POTTLE. Not possibly. There are very strict guidelines.
SPARKS. I think [Pottle] would agree, we were prepared to, um, stretch a point…very keen to stretch a point, but…
POTTLE. There has to be a limit.
SPARKS. I'm sure you understand.
RUDYARD. Yes I understand, but his spectacles are extremely effective.
SPARKS. But if he should lose them he'd be a danger to himself.
POTTLE. And to his men.
