applying scientific method

7/30/2019 Applying Scientific Method

1/100

Applying the Scientific Method

John DiFelice

[email protected]

Copyright by John DiFelice, 2005
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]


2/100

Characters

2M, 1F

NATHAN BRENNAN, a junior in college.

DR. SAMUEL MICHAEL, a university professor, early-forties.

JEAN BRENNAN/DR. KIEFER, Jean is Nathan's mother and is about the same age asDr. Michael. Jean also provides the voice of Dr. Kiefer who is the chairman of

Nathans and Sams department.


3/100

3

ACT I, Scene 1

(Lights rise on the living room of a hotel. It is the

middle of January. The set should be more

abstract than realistic; there are no walls and

scene changes occur fluidly. There is a sofa, acoffee table, a lamp and two chairs, a two-seat

dining table with chairs upstage right, and a small

trashcan.

SAM enters followed by NATHAN who carries both

his and SAMs luggage. SAM carries a camera.

Both wear heavy coats. NATHAN is extremely

nervous, as one who must speak publicly but views

public speaking as a fate worse than death. SAM

is calm, cheerful.)

NATHAN

Thank God...we made it!

SAM

You act surprised.

NATHAN

With your driving?

SAM

What's wrong with my driving? I got us here in one piece.

NATHAN

Barely. Why'd you have to mess with that guy driving the tanker truck? What were

you trying to prove?

SAM

Stop being so reactionary.

NATHAN

Reactionary? We were chased by a guy hauling ten thousand gallons of gasoline.

SAM

We had the advantage, Nathan. They dont letten thousand gallons of gasoline into

the Holland Tunnel.

NATHAN

He couldve been suicidal and was just looking for a college student and his

professor to take with him to a fiery death.


4/100


5/100

5

So youre not?

SAM

No.

NATHANHow come? Id be nervous if I were you.

(SAM takes the cover off of his camera lens.)

SAM

But youre not me. (Beat) Pick up the bags again.

NATHAN

Why?

SAMThis is your first conference. I want to capture the moment.

NATHAN

You and the pictures.

SAM

Hold still. Now, give me that enthusiastic look you had when you first entered, but

without the terror.

NATHAN

Dont take my picture. I've been in a car for three hours. I look like shit.

(SAM ignores NATHAN and looks through his

camera, focusing the lens.)

NATHAN (cont'd)

I said don't take my picture.

(SAM snaps a picture with flash, blinding

NATHAN.)

SAMWait. One more.

(SAM again focuses the camera.)

NATHAN

Sometime today.


6/100

6

SAM

You're so impatient.

NATHAN

These bags aren't light.

SAM

I told you not to over-pack. We'll only be here for a couple of days.

NATHAN

Me overpack?

(SAM takes the picture. NATHAN drops the bags.)

SAM

You complain about my picture-taking, but don't you always thank me later?

NATHAN

No.

SAM

(Beat) No, I guess you don't.

(SAM takes off his coat and sits.)

NATHAN

Where are the printouts with my notes?

SAM

In my computer bag...for the tenth time.

NATHAN

Can I see them?

(SAM digs into his computer bag while NATHAN

takes off his coat.)

SAM

Did you bring your new suit?

NATHAN

Of course. Why would I forget my suit?

SAM

For the same reason I'd forget our printouts.


7/100


8/100

8

SAM

It's freezing. I haven't even turned on the heat.

NATHAN

I'll feel better once I do a practice run. Can I do it now?

SAM

We haven't even unpacked our bags.

NATHAN

I mean after that.

SAM

I'd rather we get some dinner and have a few beers first.

NATHAN

You're gonna drink tonight?

SAM

I'm not the one giving the presentation tomorrow.

NATHAN

You're not gonna get drunk on me again, are you?

SAM

Nathan, we are chemists, and the best and the brightest in our field still dontknow

which was invented first: bread or beer. Theyre practically interchangeable. Just

think ofwhat that wouldve done to the Gospel: the beerof life, instead of the breadof life. Christ wouldve fed a crowd of five thousand with two fishes and five beers.Thatwouldve been a party. In any case, I never get drunk. You know this.

NATHAN

Right.

SAM

Besides, we're both getting drunk tomorrow night after you dazzle the conference-

goers with your knowledge of homogeneous gas-phase reactions.

NATHANYou make me sound like such a geek.

SAM

You are a geek. So am I, and Ive already made very geeky dinner reservations at anoverpriced steakhouse that will blow our per diem right out of the water.

NATHAN


9/100


10/100


11/100

11

NATHAN

Let's do a quick practice run. Please. Then we can get dinner. Then you can get

drunk, just like you want.

(Pause)

SAM

Fine. (Holds out hands) The hands aren't shaking quite yet. So go on.

(NATHAN sorts the printouts.)

NATHAN

Will you time me?

(SAM checks his watch.)

SAM

Ready when you are, Sir.

NATHAN

OK. (Straightening, but still very nervous) Hello, and thank you all for coming--

SAM

(Clapping) Brilliant start! Brilliant!

(NATHAN pauses and glares at SAM. SAM reacts

facetiously, gestures that it must've been the manbehind him and that he'll keep quiet.)

NATHAN

Where was I?

SAM

You might want to tell them your name.

NATHAN

My name is Nathaniel Brennan and...(sighs, looks down at his slides, stalls.) (Breaks)

See, this is what I mean

SAM

And where are you from, Mr. Brennan?

NATHAN

(Beat) I'm from...(breaks)(Aside) Where the hell am I from?


12/100


13/100


14/100


15/100

15

SAM

She has the best grades. There's a difference. That's why I picked you...and

tomorrow you'll prove that to yourself, finally, for once. God knows you don't have

to prove it to me.

(Pause)We'll practice for as long as you need. Then we'll have a few drinks, and you'll see

everything in a better light. You'll see just how well everything will go tomorrow.

NATHAN

How do you know?

SAM

Because I've watched you in my lab.

(Pause)

Nathan, my name is also on that paper. After all this time, don't you know that I'm a

man who would never, everlet anything tarnish his reputation?(Pause)

Do I look worried?

NATHAN

No, and that shows how good you are at it.

SAM

At what?

NATHAN

Lying to me.

SAM

When have I ever lied to you?

NATHAN

Do you think Im stupid? Dont you think I know how important this paper is?

SAM

Well, we cantsolve all the worlds problems with this one paper

NATHANI mean to you. Your tenure application. You need publications and grants. Arent

you up for tenure this year?

SAM

Next year, if its any of your business.

NATHAN


16/100

16

You need grant money, right? David Golden is a reviewer for NFSI looked it up.Hell be in the audience tomorrow.

SAM

Its just a paper, Nathan. They hold these things every year.

NATHAN

What do you think your chances of getting tenure are if this paper doesnt go welltomorrow?

(Pause)

NATHAN (contd)

What are the chances?

SAM

I havent thoughtabout it.

NATHAN

Because its too terrible.

SAM

Because I am an expert at calculating probabilities, and I dont trouble myself withthings that have a miniscule chance of occurring.

NATHAN

But you told me about this guy! About how he crucifies people he doesnt like, how

he goes after students, how he buries peoples work for years and prevents themfrom getting published. Hes performed similar research, and all our numbers

disagree with his. Hes gonna go after me, I know it, and I just dont know enough todefend our work!

(Pause)

SAM

Say the word, Nathan.

NATHAN

What?

SAM

You know what. Its what Ive said from the beginning: saythe word and Ill givethis presentation cold at a moments notice.

NATHAN

Then why give it to me?


17/100

17

SAM

Because I teach. Its what I do,and I have every confidence in the world that you

will do a good job tomorrow. Still, you dont have to do this. It is entirely up to you,and I wont think any less of you if you back out.

(Pause while NATHAN considers this)

NATHAN

I want to do it.

SAM

Think about it.

NATHAN

I did. Ill do it.

SAM

Are you sure?

NATHAN

Dont ask me again.

SAM

I wont. (Beat) See, this is why I picked you.

NATHAN

(Beat, nods) Thanks, Doc.

SAM

My name is Sam. Ive told you this before. I've had enough of being called "Doc". It

makes me feel like Elmer Fudd, for Christ's sake.

NATHAN

"Sam" sounds weird.

SAM

It sounds weird because you insist on calling me "Doc".

NATHAN

Fine..."Sam".

SAM

Put your bags away, and well try it again.


18/100


19/100

19

Act I, Scene 2

(The Living Room of JEANs Home, two weeks

before the conference in New York.

At rise, JEAN stands onstage in a nightgown. She

has been waiting up for NATHAN; she is upset and

worried.

NATHAN enters and stops when he hears her.)

JEAN

Where have you been?

NATHAN

Youre up?

JEAN

Answer me. Where have you been?

NATHAN

At school.

JEAN

Till one oclock in the morning?

NATHAN

Yeah. I'm giving a paper at that conference in New YorkI told you. Theres more

to do than we thought...

(JEAN walks over to NATHAN and gets in close.

She sniffs in deeply through her nose.)

NATHAN

I havent been drinking. I know you think Im this big boozer

JEAN

Well maybe not tonight, but you have been drinking lately. Dont think I havent

noticed. Do you think Im stupid? Dont you think I know what alcohol smells like?I lived with your father, dont forget.

NATHAN

You havent let me forgetthat for one second.


20/100


21/100

21

NATHAN

Like...six, seven hours ago.

JEAN

Thats a long time. You must be hungry by now.

NATHAN

No, Im not. (Beat) Would you please tell me what happened?

(Pause)

JEAN

I found a lump on my breast, Nathan. Thats all.(Pause)

So, after this conference or whatever in New York, will that be it?

NATHANWill what be it?

JEAN

Will you be done with this Dr. Michael guy?

NATHAN

I hope not.

JEAN

What do you mean you hope not?

NATHAN

I mean if I play my cards right, maybe he'll want to keep me on.

JEAN

Play your cards any which way you likethrow them out the window, it doesnt

matter. A man like that knows a sucker when he sees one.

(Pause)

Dont be upset. Who else is going to tell you these things? Who but the person

whos known you since the day you were born can tell you the way things really are?

NATHANWhy do you do this?

JEAN

I have a great responsibility. I have to take care of you.

NATHAN


22/100

22

Cant I have this? Cant I have this one thing? You know, every student in my classwanted to work for Dr. Michael, students with much better grades, by the way. He

chose me. Me, Mom. The guys really well-respected. Working for him...I think it'd

help me get into a good grad school.

JEANI didn't know you wanted to go to grad school.

NATHAN

Well...I've been thinking about it.

JEAN

Since when?

NATHAN

I don't know. Dr. Michael thinks I'm grad school material.

JEAN

I thought you wanted to get a job.

NATHAN

I said I'm just thinking about it.

JEAN

Seems like I really dontknow what goes on in your life anymore.

NATHAN

You know everything.

JEAN

Well I couldn't help but notice you have a new suit hanging in your closet. I didnt

buy it and you dont have a job. Whered you get it?

NATHAN

Dr. Michael let me borrow it.

JEAN

He must be the exact same size as you.

(Pause)

NATHAN

He bought me the suit.

JEAN

Is it common for a teacher to buy his student a suit?


23/100


24/100


25/100

25

NATHAN

Do you even know what I do? Im working on finding replacements for greenhousegases. You know the stuff thats causing Global Warming? Im helping to fix the

problem. Me.

JEAN(Facetiously)I didnt know this. Tell me more.

NATHAN

Whats the use, you never listen. You never listen, and thats why youre alwayswrong. One thing Ive noticed about you is that you always draw the wrong

conclusions about things.

JEAN

Oh really?

NATHANYeah. Maybe I can bring you to one of my chemistry classes. Dr. Michael can teach

you how to observe what goes on around you and do the proper analysis. Maybe

then you can draw the right conclusions for once in your life. Maybe then you

wouldn't be this rock tied around my neck, this thing dragging me to the bottom of

the ocean.

JEAN

Is that what I am?

NATHAN

No, I take that back. You're just a really lonely woman.

(Pause)

JEAN

Youre right. I am a lonely woman. Its because I dont have a man. Maybe you

could help me with that. Tell me more about this Dr. Michael.

NATHAN

Stop.

JEANWell, youve gone on and onabout how brilliant he is, and now I find out that hes

loaded to boot. He sounds like quite a catch.

NATHAN

I said stop.

JEAN


26/100

26

Is he good-looking?

NATHAN

How the hell would I know?

JEANIve been picturing a nerdy-looking guy in a lab coat, but maybe not. Or maybe he is.

After all the losers like your father that Ive had in my life, maybe a nerdy-lookingguy is what I need.

NATHAN

Do you enjoy reducing all thats important to me to a pathetic personal ad?

JEAN

This is all thats important to you?

NATHANYes. Its the onlything thats important to me. Its about time you realized that.

(NATHAN exits.

Fade to black.)


27/100


28/100


29/100

29

NATHAN

It was really nothing.

SAM

Best part of the talk. (Clears throat) "Excuse me, David Golden here: were thoseexperiments carried out at constant temperature or pressure?"

NATHAN

Neither, it was an adiabatic compression.

SAM

(Makes a backhand slapping motion with sound effect)

Sit down little man. Nothing couldve shown his complete and total ignorance morethan that one exchangeand to show it to so many people all at once. Oh, Nathan,

youve made my year!

NATHAN(Beat) You know, it's funny. There are only a few people on earth who would

understand what we just said to each other.

SAM

And even fewer who'd give a shit.

NATHAN

(Beat) I like that.

SAMFeeling superior?

NATHAN

Yeah.

SAM

Enjoy.

(Pause)

NATHANSo, seeing how well everything went today, I want you to be honest: you were

nervous, werent you?

SAM

No, Ive been on valium since last Thursday.

NATHAN


30/100


31/100


32/100

32

NATHAN

Try harder.

SAM

(Smiles) Don't you worry about that.

(SAM holds the beer in front of NATHAN who

takes it from him after a pause.)

SAM (cont'd)

Now then, tell me how you fit that final series.

NATHAN

Can't we talk about it later?

SAM(More serious) Nathan, I am the senior author on this paper. I have to know.

NATHAN

Tomorrow.

(Pause, then SAM laughs.)

SAM

Fine. Tomorrow. We have enough to celebrate tonight.

(SAM focuses his camera on him.)

SAM (cont'd)

Let's see that winning smile. Say, "Nathan's a genius."

NATHAN

(Modestly) Nathan's a genius!

(SAM snaps a picture. Pause.)

NATHAN

So what happens next?

SAM

I thought youd never ask.

(SAM pulls a brochure from his briefcase and

hands it NATHAN.)


33/100

33

SAM (contd)San Diego is next. It's where they're holding the next Combustion Conference. Have

you been?

NATHAN

I've never been to California.

SAM

I didnt think so. It'll make a wonderful trip. They certainly know how to pick

locations for these things. (Beat) Anyway, I was thinking that since you did such a

great job on this presentation you could do San Diego too.

NATHAN

(Smiles) Really?

SAM

Yes. It'd be the same deal as New York, only this time I think we could get away withspending four or five days out there. You know, give the paper, maybe see a few

others, and then skip out to do some site-seeing. We could go to the San Diego Zoo

and Balboa Park. What do you think?

NATHAN

I...don't know. Id have to check.

SAM

Check what? With your mother? Nathan, youre twenty years-old. No offense, but

its time to spread your wings. My God, how many times does the woman call you a

day?

NATHAN

Dont ask.

SAM

Whats her problem? Doesnt she trustyou?

NATHAN

She doesnt trust anyone. Dont mind her. She thinks she has cancer again.

SAMShe has cancer?

NATHAN

I said she thinksshe has cancer. About twice a year she tells me that shes found a

lump in her breast and starts planning her funeral. Ive written her eulogy...well,

about twice a year since I was ten years-old.


34/100


35/100

35

Umm...don't laugh, but I've prepared a little something I want to say.

(NATHAN takes out a folded piece of paper.)

SAM

A serious speech? No, no. What we need now is less talk and more drinking.

(SAM clinks NATHAN's beer again. Both men

drink. SAM chugs his down. NATHAN comes up

short.)

SAM (cont'd)

Where did you learn to chug a beer?

NATHAN

I didn't know we were chugging.

SAM

Come on, I taught you better than that.

(NATHAN finishes the rest of his beer. SAM opens

two more and hands one to NATHAN.)

NATHAN

Wow.

(SAM clinks the beers together and both men

drink.)

NATHAN (cont'd)

All right, hold on. Let me just say something.

SAM

You can say anything you want...unless its in a serious speech.

NATHAN

OK, I just--

(NATHAN holds the paper up as if to read it, butthen puts it away.)

NATHAN (cont'd)

I guess I don't have to be so formal. (Beat) I just want you to know how much all of

this has meant to me.

SAM


36/100

36

All of what?

NATHAN

This conference. This opportunity. You.

SAMMe?

NATHAN

I want you to know how grateful I am. I want to thank you for everything you've

done for me.

SAM

I didn't do that much.

NATHAN

Yes you did. You gave me a chance. No one else did that.

SAM

To their loss.

NATHAN

Yeah, but...come on, Sam. I know what the other professors think of me. Dr. Kiefer

sat me down last year and told me I should switch majors. The chairman of the

department said that I should do myself a favor and quit. I know you took a big

chance with me.

SAMThe only thing I'll take credit for is not being an idiot.

NATHAN

But you could've picked Anne. She really wanted to work for you.

SAM

And her desires are not all that matter in life, despite what she thinks.

NATHAN

She was really upset...you know, when you chose me over her.

SAM

I'll bet.

NATHAN

She really gave me an earful.

SAM


37/100


38/100


39/100


40/100

40

NATHAN

(Beat) Like...everything I just said.

SAM

How much more? And don't say like a father.

NATHAN

I think I've already told you--

SAM

You've just described me as a very important person in your life. Haven't you?

NATHAN

Yeah.

SAM

Then if "like a father" is an inaccurate description, what other phrase would youuse?

NATHAN

I don't understand.

SAM

You don't?

NATHAN

No. What are you trying to say?

SAM

I'm not trying to say anything. I'm just trying to find out what you're trying to say.

NATHAN

I'm not trying to say anything. I was just trying to pay you a compliment.

SAM

So you're trying to flatter me?

NATHAN

No--

SAM

Why would you try to flatter me?

NATHAN

(Beat) This is getting a little weird.


41/100


42/100


43/100

43

NATHAN

You didn't have to get me anything--

SAM

Believe me, it's a very small gesture in light of the magnificent work you've done

today.

NATHAN

I'd feel strange about you giving me a gift for that. You already bought me this suit.

SAM

Please, Nathan. Don't spoil it the way I spoiled your speech. Now stay right there.

NATHAN

Where could I go?

(SAM pauses and considers this statement.NATHAN does not see him. He then exits.

SAM returns with a gift-wrapped box, two plastic

cups, and a red folder. He drops the folder on the

table and hands the box to NATHAN.)

NATHAN (cont'd)

What's this?

SAM

Now it's my turn to say something. Open it.

NATHAN

You didn't have to get me anything. I was just doing what you hired me to do.

SAM

You can't say I hired you to do anything because I haven't paid you a dime. In fact,

you've indirectly paid me, so just open your gift.

(NATHAN unwraps the gift. It is a bottle of

scotch.)

SAM (cont'd)

Look up.

(NATHAN looks up and SAM snaps a picture.)

NATHAN

Doc, why did you--


44/100


45/100

45

NATHAN

I don't drink Dewar's on the rocks.

SAM

Nathan...if you want to be a respectable scientist, you'll have to learn how to enjoygood scotch. It's practically written into the requirements of any reputable

department. (Beat, then frustrated) Why am I asking you?

(SAM pours NATHAN a drink and thrusts it into

his hand.)

SAM (cont'd)

Drink it.

NATHAN

(Almost a plea) Sam...

SAM

(Forceful) Drink it.

NATHAN

I'm not feeling so great.

SAM

This will help. The main ingredient of any remedy is alcohol.

(NATHAN puts the glass to his mouth.)

SAM (cont'd)

Wait, wait, wait.

(SAM rises and raises his glass.)

SAM (cont'd)

To you, Nathan--my student, who has done me so proud today. You survived my

miserable driving skills on the way up here and you have continued to impress me

to no end. More than that, you have given my life a purpose; because a teacher

without a deserving student is...a ridiculous man of no use to anyone. Students likeyou make life worth living for a teacher like me. Had I not met you, I may not be

alive today.

So, you see, you did more than give a paper. In a very real sense...you saved

my life.


46/100


47/100

47

Are you sure you don't want to take the bed?

NATHAN

I think I'll pass out right here.

SAMThen pass out right there. Just don't do it in your new suit.

(SAM walks further toward the exit, still looking at

NATHAN.)

NATHAN

Thanks for all that nice stuff you said.

SAM

I'm only being honest. I can't help it. The truth comes out when I drink. (Beat,

remembering the folder) But not only when I drink. Look in the red folder.

(NATHAN picks up the red folder.)

SAM (contd)Open it.

NATHAN

(Opens the folder) What are these?

SAM

Recommendation letters, for your graduate school applications.

NATHAN

(Unsure of what to say) Wow. Thank you.

SAM

Read one.

NATHAN

Am I supposed to?

SAMRead it.

(NATHAN reads part of the first one.)

NATHAN

You make me sound like the second coming of Christ.


48/100

48

SAM

(Lets out a snide chuckle)

Good night, Nathan.

(SAM exits. NATHAN rises, takes off his suit, and

lays it out carefully on the floor. Only hisundershirt and shorts remain. He lies down and

falls asleep.

SAM enters. When he sees NATHAN he gets a

blanket and puts it over him. SAM considers him

for a moment. He lingers. He continues to stare at

NATHAN asleep as the lights fade slowly.)


49/100


50/100

50


51/100


52/100

52

SAM

You need something to soak up all that alcohol.

NATHAN

I don't think I can eat.

SAM

Sick to your stomach?

(NATHAN nods.)

SAM (cont'd)

How about some coffee then? I made a small pot. It's not the best in the world, but

it should do the trick.

(SAM exits to the bedroom. NATHAN hastilydresses. SAM returns with two cups of coffee.)

SAM (cont'd)

Putting your suit back on?

NATHAN

It's cold in here.

SAM

Well, come over and have a hot cup of coffee.

(SAM sets the cups down on the table. He then

opens the main door to the hotel room and picks

up the morning paper. He closes the door and

takes a seat at the table. He sips his coffee as he

reads.)

SAM

Don't you want your coffee?

(NATHAN rises and takes a seat across from SAM.

He can't look at him. SAM takes a sip and turns apage of the paper.)

SAM (cont'd)

Now this is interesting. There's a Miro exhibit at the Guggenheim today. What do

you say we skip the poster session at the conference and go see that instead? Have

you ever been to the Guggenheim?


53/100

53

NATHAN

You know this is my first time to New York.

SAM

Well...there are Guggenheims all over the place. My personal favorite is the one in

Bilbao. The architect based the design on the structure of a fish. It's quitefascinating. Did you know that this Guggenheim was designed by Frank Lloyd

Wright?

NATHAN

No, I didn't.

SAM

This is what I mean about broadening your education. It's all about your education,

Nathan. What do you say we go?

NATHANShouldn't we see the rest of the conference?

SAM

And stand around with those bores? I'd sooner drive home.

NATHAN

(Right on it, but not too obvious)

Maybe we should...you know, drive home.

SAM

You want to go home?

NATHAN

If we're not going to the conference, I think I'd like to get back. I have stuff to do.

SAM

Like what?

NATHAN

I have some...exams coming up.

SAMYou don't have any exams. I know your whole schedule by heart. (Beat) Let's go to

the Guggenheim. It's time you got a little more culture in your life. You'll love it.

(Beat) What time is it?

NATHAN

I don't know.


54/100


55/100


56/100

56

NATHAN

They could see right through me. They could all see what a fraud I am.

JEAN

Stop saying that. You're not a fraud.

NATHAN

Yes I am. You were right. You were right all along.

JEAN

Right about what?

NATHAN

I couldn't see it, but you could.

JEANI don't know what you're talking about, but you are not a fraud. You are a talented,

intelligent, gifted young man--

NATHAN

Stop! You dontbelieve any of that.

JEAN

I do.

NATHAN

Youve been lying to me my whole life.

JEAN

I've never lied to you.

NATHAN

Leave me alone.

JEAN

Where is this coming from?

NATHANI said leave me alone!

JEAN

How can I help? Tell me what to do.

(Pause)

Can I at least try to help?

(Pause)


57/100


58/100

58

I can't.

(JEAN sits down on the sofa.)

JEAN

Come here.

(NATHAN hesitates and then sits down next to her.

She gives him a hug.)

JEAN (cont'd)

Maybe it's for the best.

(NATHAN pulls away and glares at her.)

NATHAN

"Maybe it's for the best"? I tell you I'm quitting school and you say "Maybe it's for

the best"?

JEAN

So?

NATHAN

Oh, you'd just love that, wouldn't you?

(NATHAN rises.)

JEAN

What are you talking about?

(NATHAN walks to the other side of the room.)

JEAN (cont'd)

I only said what I thought you wanted to hear.

NATHAN

No, this is a rare occasion when you said exactlywhat you were thinking.

JEAN

I...fine. Don't quit, then. "Hang in there." "Don't give up." Is that better? What was I

supposed to say?

NATHAN


59/100


60/100

60

JEAN

I'd feel the same way about anyone who monopolized your time. The man is

downright greedy.

NATHAN

You envy what we share, the abstract and complex things we can talk about, how wecommunicate at a level you have no hope of understanding. It mustve been so hard

for a man as smart as my dad.

(Pause)

JEAN

Are you trying to hurt me?

NATHAN

No.

JEAN

Then why are you?

(Pause)

My, there are things in this life people never let you live down. I know you will

always blame me for leaving your father, but if you only knew--

NATHAN

I don't--

JEAN

If you only knew what I had to put up with--

NATHAN

That's not it.

JEAN

You'd thank me if you knew.

NATHAN

I know. I know you stayed with him much longer than you should have. That's what

you did wrong. I remember how he was. He was controlling, he was unfaithful...and

we won't even mention the drinking. But then even you reached a point where youknew you had to leave. You knew there was a time to cut your losses and quit. That

I can understand. What I can't understand is why you stayed as long as you did.

(Pause)

So tell me: why did you stay?

JEAN

I haven't thought about that in a long time.


61/100


62/100

62

NATHAN

Not yet, but it should do the trick. It's brutally honest.

JEAN

What calls for such brutal honesty? (Beat) Can I read it?

NATHAN

No.

JEAN

Why not?

NATHAN

Because I don't want you to.

JEAN

Please? (Beat) When are you going to give it to him? Tomorrow?

(Pause. JEAN rises.)

JEAN (contd)

Remember, Nathan: no one knows you like I do. No one ever could. And I know you

think that what youre doing at school is the most important thing in the world, but

itisnt. And you should know that I still love you, no matter what those scientiststhought of that silly paper.

(JEAN exits. NATHAN takes out the

recommendation letters from the red folder. He

rips them in half. He then holds the resignation

letter and reads it. He looks toward where JEAN

exits. With his eyes still fixed there, he tears the

letter of resignation in half.

Black out.)

END OF ACT I


63/100

63

ACT II, Scene 1

(May of the following year, two weeks before

Nathan's graduation.

Lights rise on NATHAN dressed in a graduationgown.

JEAN enters. She hides a suit behind her back.

Upon hearing her NATHAN turns, but she stops

him before he sees her.)

JEAN

Don't look.

NATHAN

What?

JEAN

Close your eyes.

NATHAN

Why?

JEAN

Close 'em.

(He does.)

JEAN (cont'd)

Now turn around.

NATHAN

What are you doing?

JEAN

I have a surprise for you.

(NATHAN does as she asked. JEAN holds the suitout in front of him.)

JEAN (cont'd)

OK. Open them.

(NATHAN does.)


64/100

64

JEAN

What do you think?

NATHAN

(Pleasant) Wow. (Taking the suit) Thank you.

JEAN

This is just one of your graduation gifts--one of the main ones, but there are others

coming.

NATHAN

This is really nice.

JEAN

It should be. I spent two hundred dollars on it. I want you to wear it under your

gown. I know it's probably not "cool" to wear a suit under your gownnot that you

were ever concerned about being cool

NATHAN

I'd love to.

(Pause)

JEAN

Try on the jacket.

(NATHAN takes off his gown and puts on the

jacket.)

JEAN (cont'd)

Perfect!

(Pause. JEAN studies him.)

NATHAN

What?

JEAN

I'm...really proud of you.

NATHAN

Thanks.

JEAN

You must be proud.


65/100


66/100


67/100


68/100

68

For being so good to my son.

NATHAN

You didn't have to do that.

JEANI wanted to. I'd also like to have him over for dinner.

NATHAN

Dinner?

JEAN

Yeah, you know: the meal you rarely share with me because you're always working

with him?

NATHAN

Here?

JEAN

Yeah.

NATHAN

(Beat) You know, he's a funny guy. I dont thinkhe'd accept.

JEAN

Why not?

NATHANI just don't.

JEAN

Well I'll make the gesture all the same.

NATHAN

(Thinks it over) Why not. It doesn't...That would be nice.

JEAN

I'll plan a nice dinner and have him over after graduation.

(JEAN exits. Lights down on NATHAN.)


69/100

69

ACT II, Scene 2

(SAM's Office, the following day. There are sounds

of a large distant crowd with sporadic cheering.

At rise, Sam sits at his desk studying a piece ofpaper. He looks tired and pensive. NATHAN

enters cheerfully.)

SAM

Enjoying Senior Day?

NATHAN

Yeah. The weather is unbelievable. It's perfect out there.

SAM

Perfect weather for drinking, apparently. Every time I looked out the window youwere getting back in line for beer.

NATHAN

Must've been some other guy. (Beat) Want me to get you one?

SAM

I doubt I'd enjoy the swill they bought for the occasion.

NATHAN

It's Lite beer, your favorite. (SAM smiles)(Beat) So what are you doing?

SAM

Performing my annual ritual. Every May I get to sit and listen to seniors like you

laugh and cheer because they've finished their exams. (Beat, gesturing toward the

sounds) Hear them all? That is the sound of the recently unburdened. Hear that

fleeting sense of accomplishment? That excitement of a future unknown?

NATHAN

Yeah, I got it myself.

(SAM holds the piece of paper up to NATHAN.)

SAM

Do you know what this is? (NATHAN shakes his head.) This is my new teaching

schedule. It tells me what I'll be teaching for the next five years. This is my future,

and it all fits on one sheet of paper. Isn't that something?

NATHAN

Must be great to have that kind of job security.


70/100


71/100

71

(SAM hands NATHAN a gift-wrapped box.

NATHAN unwraps it. It contains a stack of papers.

NATHAN takes the top one and reads it.)

NATHAN

They came?

SAM

You are holding the galleys for the paper you presented in New York last year. Not

even David Golden could keep these results from the press. You, my friend, are now

a published author.

(NATHAN stares excitedly at the paper.)

NATHAN

Look at that. (Beat) You put my name first.

SAM

That's just the convention.

NATHAN

This is unbelievable.

SAM

I thought they'd make a nice graduation gift.

(NATHAN excitedly flips through the pages.)

NATHAN

Everything. All that work, all those late nights...(pause, remembering New York) It's

all right here...forever, for anyone to read.

(NATHAN looks over at SAM who is staring at his

own hands folded on the desk.)

NATHAN (cont'd)

You don't seem excited. Don't tell me this ever gets old.

SAMRegretfully it does, like all things.

(Pause)

NATHAN

What's up?


72/100


73/100


74/100


75/100

75

SAM

About what?

NATHAN

My ability.

SAM

After all you've accomplished?

NATHAN

Yes.

SAM

Nathan, look at your record--

NATHAN

I know my record; you don't have to tell me about my record.

SAM

You've come so far in such a short amount of time--

NATHAN

I know, I know all that, I just...

SAM

What?

NATHAN(Beat) I want to know what you think of me.

SAM

Don't you know by now--

NATHAN

I mean really...I want to know what you really think of me.

SAM

How many times do you need to hear it?

NATHAN

I have to believe you. I have to hear it in a way that makes me truly believe you.

SAM

Where is this coming from?

NATHAN


76/100

76

I don't know. (Beat) Maybe graduation is making me sentimental, but...I'm starting a

very challenging program in the Fall, and I have to know...I have to know that you

think I can do it.

SAM

Of course you can do it. I'm convinced there's nothing you can't do.

NATHAN

Please...you're saying all the same words I've heard so many times--

SAM

Well what do you want me to say?

NATHAN

You don't know?

SAMKnow what?

(Pause)

NATHAN

I've learned something about myself these past two years. I've learned that there's a

lot of forgiveness inside of me.

SAM

Why are you telling me this?

NATHAN(Searching) I guess there's no reason.

SAM

Are you sure there's nothing you want to ask me?

(Pause)

NATHAN

My mother wants to have you over for dinner.

SAM

Oh. How nice. When?

NATHAN

Sometime after graduation. She mentioned how she's never met you and that she'd

like to.


77/100

77

SAM

I guess I haven't met her, have I? It seems strange to me now--you've talked about

her so much I feel like I already know her.

NATHAN

You can give me an answer later.

SAM

I'll give it to you now. Tell her that I'd love to come over for dinner. You've gone on

and on about what a great cook she is... And it may be one of the last times I see you.

NATHAN

Don't say that.

SAM

It's true.

(Pause)

NATHAN

I'll tell her you said yes.

SAM

Good.

NATHAN

Good. Well...bye.

(NATHAN turns to go.)

SAM

Do you know the amount of faith I have in you?

NATHAN

(Turns around) I think so.

SAM

Those papers you have in your hands. Our work was published and you never told

me how you fit that final series of data. Think you can tell me now?

NATHAN

You loaded the wrong thermodynamic properties into the model. That's what was

throwing things off. I loaded the correct ones, regenerated the data, and the model

fit like a glove.

SAM


78/100


79/100

79

ACT II, Scene 3

(An hour later. Living Room, JEAN'S house.

NATHAN enters.)

NATHANMom, I'm home.

(JEAN enters holding a letter. She looks

concerned.)

JEAN

How's my soon-to-be graduate?

NATHAN

He's doing fine. (Beat) Oh, I spoke to Dr. Michael about dinner. He accepted...said

he'd love to come over. That guy's full of surprises.

JEAN

Apparently. (Beat) Do you have a minute?

NATHAN

I can give you two minutes, but then I have to go. There's a big party tonight, and I--

(Pause)

Who died?

JEAN

Nobody.

NATHAN

I know that look.

JEAN

No one died. (Beat) This came for you today.

(JEAN holds out the letter.)

NATHAN (cont'd)

What is it?

JEAN

A letter from school.

(NATHAN takes the letter.)

NATHAN


80/100

80

You opened it?

JEAN

I thought it was our graduation tickets.

NATHANI told you I picked them up already.

JEAN

I'm sorry. I didn't mean to...

(NATHAN opens the letter and reads it. He looks

up at his mother.)

NATHAN

You read this?

JEAN

I thought it was our graduation tickets. (Beat) Nathan, what's going on?

(Pause)

Nathan?

NATHAN

What?

JEAN

What's going on?

NATHAN

How should I know?

JEAN

Why do they want you to meet with the chairman of your department?

NATHAN

I have no idea.

(Pause)

JEAN

What has Dr. Michael done?

NATHAN

I don't know.

JEAN


81/100

81

Then why are they investigating him? (Beat) Who's accusing him of sexual

harassment?--

NATHAN

I said I don't know!

(JEAN approaches NATHAN.)

JEAN

Nathan...

NATHAN

What?

JEAN

Come here.

NATHAN

What are you doing?

JEAN

Nathan, tell me...what did he do?

NATHAN

Nothing.

JEAN

What did he do to you?

NATHAN

I said nothing!

JEAN

Honey--

NATHAN

Just...stop.

JEANI knew it. I couldfeelit--

NATHAN

Please stop talking.

JEAN


82/100

82

All those late nights. All that time away from home. What have I always told you?

You can't trust anybody. People are only out to take advantage of you. Can't you see

that now? Can't you see what I've told you all along?--

NATHAN

Mom--

JEAN

Don't you see? What's a mother to do? What's she to do when she tries to protect

her son--

NATHAN

I'm warning you--

JEAN

--and he resents her for it?

NATHAN

I'm begging you to stop--

JEAN

And you have. You've resented me for it--

NATHAN

Stop.

JEAN

--when I love you so much. And I let you go on all those trips with him, to all thoseconferences. I had to tell them, Nathan.

NATHAN

Tell who what?

JEAN

Dr. Kiefer. I called him.

NATHAN

You...called Dr. Kiefer?

JEAN

Yes.

NATHAN

You called--

JEAN


83/100

83

I had to. I had to tell him whats been going on because I knew you wouldnt. I toldhim about the gifts, about all the time away from home, about the hotel rooms,

about the kind of professor he has working for him, the kind that would come

between a mother and her son.

NATHAN(Slow build) Oh God, Mom.

JEAN

I told him because this has to end. Even though youre graduating, he had to know

the truth.

NATHAN

The truth?! You want to know the truth? OK! You got me! I admit it! You want to

know what wed do on those trips? Do you? Hed take me to a motel room and fuck

my brains out all weekend!

JEAN

Nathan!

NATHAN

We wouldnt even go the talks. Wed never leave the room!

JEAN

Stop!

NATHAN

Oh, I wasnt into it right away, but once I figured out all the perks you get fromfucking your professorthe good grades, the great recommendation lettersIturned into a pro!

JEAN

I said stop it!

NATHAN

Why? Why stop? This is your moment of truth. Dont you want to hear what youve

raised? You worked so hard at it. You worked night and day to raise a man who

would let someone violate him over and over again so he could feel he was worth

something. (Beat)Arent you horrified by this? I just confirmed all your fears.(Pause)

You dont look horrified at all. Look at you, look at your face. You look...jealous!

(Repulsed) Oh God, Mom, you look so jealous.

JEAN

Nathan, please!


84/100

84

(JEAN hesitantly reaches for him and tries to

caress his face.)

JEAN (contd)

Just...please.

(NATHAN stops her.)

NATHAN

No. Not anymore.

(Fade to black.)


85/100

85

ACT II, Scene 4

(SAM's office, an hour later. At rise, SAM sits at his

desk, working over some papers. NATHAN storms

in with the letter from school in hand.)

SAM

Nathan? I thought you left.

NATHAN

You want to explain this?

(NATHAN places the letter on SAM's desk. SAM

picks it up and reads it as NATHAN speaks.)

NATHAN

Were you gonna tell me? Were you gonna tell me, or did you want me to besurprised? Because that's what I am. I'm surprised!

SAM

I didn't want them to involve you.

NATHAN

Involve me in what?

(NATHAN crosses the room.)

NATHAN (cont'd)Jesus Christ, Sam!

SAM

Nathan--

NATHAN

What happened? Tell me what happened.

SAM

Nothing happened.

NATHAN

What do they want from me?

SAM

I think they want to ask you questions about something that happened in lab a

couple months ago. I told them you were there that day--probably shouldn't have.

It was stupid of me to think they wouldn't call you in.


86/100

86

NATHAN

It says I'm supposed to appear before Dr. Kiefer and that the Dean might be there?

The Dean! Two weeks before graduation!

SAMI'm really sorry, Nathan. I'm sorry they dragged you into this. I think they want to

talk to you before you graduate. After that, they can't make you appear before them.

NATHAN

But...can't they ask someone else? Can't they ask anyone but me?

SAM

You are the only one who can clear this up.

NATHAN

What do you mean by that?

SAM

You're the one who--

NATHAN

I don't believe this. I don't fucking believe this!

SAM

Nathan?

NATHANJesus Christ, Sam!

SAM

What...what are you getting so excited about?--

NATHAN

What happened? Tell me what happened!

SAM

Nothing happened.

NATHAN

What do they want from me?

SAM

Ineed you. Me. You're going to talk to them for me.

NATHAN


87/100

87

I thought you didn't want them to drag me into this. What's the truth, Sam?

SAM

What I meant--

NATHANGod, in two days? I don't know if I can do this.

SAM

But...I didn't do anything.

NATHAN

Yeah?

SAM

Yes. The accusation is baseless.

(Pause)

NATHAN

What's his name?

SAM

His?

NATHAN

Don't play fucking games with me! What's his name?

SAM

Anne Wagner.

(Pause)

NATHAN

Anne?

SAM

Yes. (Beat) You assumed it was a male student?

NATHAN

Anne Wagner?

SAM

Remember that day she came to the lab to complain about the grade I gave her? I

shut the hallway door to the lab--something I never do--but that was only because

you were in the other room. Now she claims I spoke to her in a...suggestive manner.


88/100

88

She says I harassed her sexually. But you were in the next room. You heard

everything. Remember?

(Pause)

That girl just has it in for me. Ever since last year.

Don't you remember that day she came to lab? Remember how we laughed

about it afterward?

(Pause)

NATHAN

(With relief) I do, Sam. I do remember.

SAM

All you have to do is go in there and tell them that.

(NATHAN laughs.)

SAM (cont'd)

You're right, it's funny. Not only is she lying, but I don't feel the slightest bit of

attraction toward that girl.

NATHAN

I know you don't, Sam.

SAM

I mean, can you imagine...

(NATHAN continues to laugh.)

SAM

Is it really thatfunny?

NATHAN

Yes it is. It is that funny.

SAM

Nathan? What are you doing? What's wrong?

NATHANNothing. I'm fine. When I first heard your story, I thought--what does it matter

what I thought? You're innocent. I was just so...I was just so afraid of what you'd

say, and when I found out it was Anne...I was so relieved because I know beyond a

shadow of a doubt that you're innocent.

SAM

Why are you crying?


89/100


90/100

90

(Pause)

SAM

Nathan...I'm sorry, but I don't know what gave you that idea. I apologize if you've

misinterpreted anything I've ever said or done, but--

NATHAN

Like New York?

(Pause)

SAM

What?

NATHAN

Like the hotel room in New York? Do you really think I don't know what you did to

me in New York?

(SAM slowly sits down into his chair.)

NATHAN (cont'd)

(A revelation) You do remember.

(Pause)

You don't know what that means to me to see that you remember. So many times I

even questioned it myself.

(Pause)

You know, the worst part was hearing you fumble around in the dark behind

me...wondering what you were capable of, imagining what you would do to me ifyou found out I was awake and knew. After all, you are a man who would never,everlet anything tarnish his reputation. I even pretended to snore...because I was so

afraid you'd find out I was awake.

SAM

(Feebly) What are you going to do?

NATHAN

I'm going home. I have a meeting in a couple days.

SAMWhat are you going to say?

NATHAN

The truth.

(NATHAN exits. Fade to black.)


91/100

91

ACT II, Scene 5

(At rise, NATHAN sits in a chair center stage under

a spotlight. The rest of the stage is dark. JEAN

stands stage right in the dark and provides thevoiceover for DR. KIEFER.)

KIEFER

Thank you for coming today, Nathan. I know you just finished exams and this is

probably the last thing you want to do with your time.

NATHAN

It's OK.

KIEFER

I say this so you understand the serious nature of this inquiry. I wouldn't haveasked you to take time out of your well-earned celebration unless it were very

important.

NATHAN

I understand.

KIEFER

Good. (Beat) Do you understand the charges against Dr. Michael?

NATHAN

My classmate, Anne Wagner, claims that he spoke to her in a sexually suggestiveway?

KIEFER

Yes. This is a sexual harassment case, the type of case we take very seriously at this

university. Just so you understand our position, our main goal as professors is not

only to teach our students, but to act as their guardians because a student cannot

learn if he or she feels threatened, intimidated, or exploited in any way. Even

though Anne is graduating, Dr. Michael will remain and we must make sure that he

and all of our professors conduct themselves ethically. Does that make sense?

NATHANYes. That makes a lot of sense.

KIEFER

Anne says that she went to Dr. Michael's lab two months ago to question his grading

of an exam. She says that he shut the hallway door--not a good practice--and then

quote "began complimenting me on my appearance. Then he got in close to me and

told me how pretty I am and how much he'd miss me when I graduated. Then he


92/100

92

asked me to come back at the end of the day so we could discuss my exam grade

with more privacy" unquote.

(Pause)

Dr. Michael says that you were in the lab, in the adjacent room, when this happened.

Is that true?

NATHAN

Yes it is.

KIEFER

Anne doesn't mention you at all.

NATHAN

I was there. I swear it. If there's any question, you can look at the data I collected

with the gas chromatograph that day. Theres a datetime stamp on everything.

KIEFERCould you hear everything that was said during Anne's visit?

NATHAN

Yes.

KIEFER

And what did you hear her say?

NATHAN

I heard her complain about her grade the whole time. It was really annoying.

KIEFER

Is that all she talked about?

NATHAN

Yeah, and she did all the talking. Dr. Michael hardly said anything.

(Pause)

KIEFER

Do you feel any special compulsion to defend Dr. Michael other than to tell the truth

as it happened?

NATHAN

None.

(Pause)

KIEFER


93/100

93

OK. I guess were done with that.

NATHAN

(Beat) Can I go?

KIEFERAlmost. I have a couple more questions. These are ones I am obligated to ask due to

the nature of the complaint.

(Pause)

Have you ever heard Dr. Michael speak suggestively to any student?

NATHAN

(Beat) No.

KIEFER

Have you ever heard of Dr. Michael touching a student in an inappropriate manner?

(Long pause)Nathan?

NATHAN

Yes?

KIEFER

Did you hear the question?

NATHAN

Yes, I'm sorry.

KIEFER

Have you ever heard of Dr. Michael touching a student in an inappropriate manner?

NATHAN

No.

KIEFER

Why did you hesitate?

(Pause)

Is there something you want to tell me, Nathan?

NATHAN

Theres nothing to tell.

(Pause)

KIEFER

Do you know your mother called me?


94/100


95/100

95

ACT II, Scene 6

(SAM's office, the next day.)

NATHAN

Hello, Sam.

(SAM looks at NATHAN, and then away.)

NATHAN (cont'd)

(With genuine concern) How are you?

SAM

Ive been better. (Beat) I heard about your meeting. (Beat) You know, there was afamous scientistfamous at the timewho developed an early theory about the

trade routes of ancient Troy. His work became the de facto standard on the subject.

But one day he unearthed clay pots that completely disproved his theory...so hesmashed them.

NATHAN

Why would he do that? Didnt he know that the truth always comes out in science?

(Beat)I didnt smash any pots, Sam. I couldnt.

(Pause)

SAM

Why did you save me?

NATHAN

Did I? (Beat) Last year when Anne found out you picked me over her, do you know

what she said to me? She said you must like pretty boys.

SAM

Why didn't you tell the truth?

NATHAN

I did. I told them what is true to me.

(Pause)

And I came here today to apologize.

SAM

You want to apologize to me?

NATHAN

Awhile ago I decided that I'd never mention New York to anyone. I never planned to

tell you the way I did, so I'm sorry.


96/100

96

SAM

If you apologize to me again I think I'll die.

NATHAN

Well, we can't have that. Ive kinda gotten used to having you around.(Pause)

I didn't tell anybody. Not my mother, none of my friends...

(Pause)

Sam...it's in the past.

SAM

(Struggling) Not for me.

NATHAN

I've had over a year to deal with it. You've only had a couple of days.

SAM

But I'm the cause.

NATHAN

You are. But friends help each other out, even when they really fuck things up.

SAM

You consider me a friend?

NATHAN

Yes.

SAM

Why? Why don't you hate me?

NATHAN

I never hated you, not even right after...you know.

(Pause)

But why'd you do it, Sam?

SAM

I was drunk.

NATHAN

Why?

SAM

I don't know.


97/100

97

NATHAN

Does anyone know besides me?

SAM

Well I certainly didn't tell anyone.

NATHAN

I mean about you being homosexual.

SAM

I'm not...I really don't think that I am.

NATHAN

Sam...

SAM

(Beat) No. No one.

NATHAN

Why not?

(Pause)

Please answer me.

SAM

Because I'd lose my job. You know how conservative this university is.

NATHAN

Then why did you choose to work here?

SAM

It's a good school, a well-paying one.

NATHAN

God.

(Pause)

I've thought about every possible reason...but why me?

SAM

There is no reason. I was drunk. You're...an attractive man, Nathan. It was anaccident.

(Pause, NATHAN stares at him, waiting)

The more I got to know you, the more I thought...I thought there was a chance...you

might feel the same way about me.

NATHAN

What made you think I was gay?


98/100

98

SAM

I guess you reminded me of myself when I was your age.

NATHAN

And now?

SAM

And now what?

NATHAN

And now that you know I'm not gay, that there never was or ever will be any

"chance"...how do you feel about me?

SAM

Well, I still think you're an attractive man--

NATHAN

I mean about my ability! About having had me as your student. What do you think

of me now?

SAM

Are you suggesting that I took you on as a student because I was attracted to you?

NATHAN

Yes! Yes! Yes!

(Pause)

SAM

I might be able to tell you that if you tell me how you were able to forgive me.

NATHAN

Well, I just tried to--

SAM

I never touched you, you know.

(Pause)

NATHAN

I tried to imagine what your life is like: the repression, the secrets. I found out

about living with a secret. I was able to see how someone could crack.

(SAM chuckles pathetically.)


99/100

99

NATHAN (cont'd)

You work at a very conservative university, you've been in the closet for what I

guess has been your entire life

SAM

I love you.

(Pause)

NATHAN

What?

SAM

I love you, Nathan. (Beat) I did crack. But the truth is that it was more than just an

attraction. It was more than just a drunken, momentary lapse in judgment. It's that

there is absolutely nothing on this earth I wouldn't give to make you love me.

(Pause)My feelings for you are not those of a close friend, or of a father, or of the kind you

have for me, but they are the kind you would have for a woman who is everything

you could ever want in another human being. It's the way you'd feel about a woman

who makes this miserable world bearable...not just bearable, but beautiful,

transforms it into a place you no longer dream of leaving.

Now imagine she doesn't love you. Not only doesn't she love you, but she is

incapable of ever loving you. Not only is she incapable of ever loving you, but it is

physically impossible for her to love you. You realize there is nothing you can do,

nothing you can change about yourself to ever make her. Imagine all that, and then

you can understand what my life has been like since I met you.

(NATHAN subtly withdraws. SAM notices.)

SAM (cont'd)

That's the one thing you can't forgive?

NATHAN

Its not about forgiveness, it's just...where can we possibly go from here, Sam?

SAM

I don't know, but a couple minutes ago I almost thought...

(Pause. SAM straightens up in his chair, pulls

himself together. The next time he addresses

NATHAN it's with a very professorial tone.)

SAM (cont'd)

I'll see you at graduation, Nathan.


100/100

(NATHAN turns to exit.)

SAM (cont'd)

You've earned everything you've achieved here. I can't possibly be more honest

than that. Your talent, your ability, your intelligence...my feelings for you are

because of those things, not in spite of them. It is because you are so very gifted. Idon't deserve your trust, but please believe that. You deserve every good thing

that's happened to you.

(NATHAN looks at SAM. Lights down on SAM.

NATHAN is left alone on stage, looking to where

SAM vanished. He smiles faintly.)

NATHAN

Thanks, Doc.

(Fade to black.)

END OF PLAY

applying scientific method

Documents