tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3450525418391844722024-03-13T09:56:27.973-07:00New Bad FutureThe future is here ... and it sucks. SF reviews, social commentary, dark thoughts.Marty Fugatehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05077693961075517845noreply@blogger.comBlogger806125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-345052541839184472.post-73645663482480871492023-01-19T10:56:00.005-08:002023-01-19T11:10:11.628-08:00Marty Fugate Critic Seminar Q+A<p><b><span style="font-family: arial;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9IAA0T-h-7mZxrZsdv5kzIqf_gyUTbvX9M0gPM2pM_kXGGRHI693CEte3N7w-NBlnfxWxpFVCV4xjwApWsnsgjueAl51t8Jxp9XEbva867jA8JxD8660RU3Lwn84WA6bH26qc_Uy4ucVicCj4Wh80saMFQ-W3hdrYBBzTipqIU6v3PGiWyQ_n2w/s300/TheCritic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="168" data-original-width="300" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9IAA0T-h-7mZxrZsdv5kzIqf_gyUTbvX9M0gPM2pM_kXGGRHI693CEte3N7w-NBlnfxWxpFVCV4xjwApWsnsgjueAl51t8Jxp9XEbva867jA8JxD8660RU3Lwn84WA6bH26qc_Uy4ucVicCj4Wh80saMFQ-W3hdrYBBzTipqIU6v3PGiWyQ_n2w/w486-h272/TheCritic.jpg" width="486" /></a></span></b></div><b><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 24px;"><br /></span></span></b><p></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 24px;">What’s the function of a critic?</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 24px;">On the level of the university or national publications, that’d be someone who analyzes the merits and faults of a literary or artistic work — or, for that matter, a fad, philosophy or social movement. In terms of popular media, you’re more like a professional poison taster. <i>“’Avatar II’ sucks … aggghh! Don’t see it!”</i> But most real critics (even that late Roger Ebert) hate that part of the job --- and only begrudgingly do it when they have to. Thumbs up, thumbs down. Pfft! I’m not the Emperor Nero.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 24px;">What education should a competent critic have?<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 24px;">If you’re an English major or have a degree in journalism, if can’t hurt – but it doesn’t make you a critic. It’s not like the Wizard of Oz gives you a critic certificate. Plenty of writers without specialized degrees were (and still are) great critics. Plenty of credentialled critics don’t know what they’re talking about.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 24px;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A critic can make or break a show or an exhibit. Is that right?<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 24px;">That’s not been my experience, at least on the local level.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 24px;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><b><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 24px;">Has criticism changed over the years? How?</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 24px;">The primary change is economic. If you’re considering a professional career in the 21st century, blacksmithing or buggy-whip manufacturing would be much more lucrative. From the standpoint of pure ideas, it’s gotten harder to confine yourself to the realm of pure ideas. Political gatekeepers have crashed the party – including PC gatekeepers on the left, and right-wing gatekeepers on the right. What you say CAN hurt you now … and that’s all I’m going to say on the subject.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 24px;">Do personal biases interfere with a critic’s job?<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 24px;">I’d say they’re part of the job description … at least for now. Silicon Valley has created AI systems that generate amazing art. AI critics are probably on the horizon in the not-too-distant future. Until then critics are not robots. Critics are human and, by definition, not objective. I appreciate certain critics because of their unique points of view.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 24px;">Should the critic of an opening take their time writing their review — to allow the performance to settle-in? Maybe even attend later performances?</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 24px;">Not usually. Your initial response is your most authentic response, Second-guessing yourself is a bad intellectual habit.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 24px;">Some critics are also arts reporters. Does your arts coverage inform your reviews?</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 24px;">It can. The more you know, the better you write. Art reporting never hurts art criticism. On the other hand, going beyond the demands of a legitimate article — you can research something to death – to the point where it’s next to impossible to have a genuine response to what’s on stage or in the gallery. You already know the consensus of opinion on the show and the talent behind it. You know so much you’ve already written the review in your mind before you even see the show! When you get to that point, you’re just rehashing groupthink, not offering your unbiased opinion. That’s lazy, dishonest and the opposite of real criticism.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 24px;"><o:p> </o:p></span><b><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 24px;">Who are some critics whom you respect, and why?</span></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 24px;">Here are a few of the usual suspects from a very long list ,,, </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt;">Dorothy Parker. Harlan Ellison. Roger Ebert, Robert Hughes, Joan Altabe, John Lahr, Frank Rich, Anthony Lane. My father. Su Byron. Kevin Dean. And everyone here, of course.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 12pt;">Without doing a specific breakdown, I’d say experience, knowledge, honesty, passion and curiosity makes each critic special. That said, it doesn’t mean they’re always right!. Just because I respect a critic, that doesn’t mean I always agree with them. Dorothy Parker hated “Winnie the Pooh.” Harlan Ellison hated “2001.” Pauline Kael hated “A Clockwork Orange.” I still respect those critics. I still love those books and movies.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 24px;">Thanks to social media, everyone really is a critic. What impact does that have on contemporary criticism?<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 24px;">Free criticism kills the market for professional criticism. Who wants to buy a cow when they can get the milk for free? Few do. Increasingly, they’re at a national level. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-family: arial; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%;">Is the
whole concept of criticism outdated?<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: arial;">As an
intellectual discipline, never. As a career? I’d need a time machine to answer
that question. </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>Marty Fugatehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05077693961075517845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-345052541839184472.post-36692791920814771912021-11-03T20:40:00.006-07:002021-11-03T20:40:44.016-07:00<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eFzRTmuwyJ0/YYNVSsfdo7I/AAAAAAAAI4M/lEPC74VEL48IM00TIlCVm3QpOfq2-2v8QCLcBGAsYHQ/s1400/DUNE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="1400" height="344" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eFzRTmuwyJ0/YYNVSsfdo7I/AAAAAAAAI4M/lEPC74VEL48IM00TIlCVm3QpOfq2-2v8QCLcBGAsYHQ/w688-h344/DUNE.jpg" width="688" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br />Some random thoughts on <i>Dune</i>'s latest film incarnation ...</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-large;">Director Denis Villeneuve is a visionary — in a literal sense. </span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-large;">When I saw the film's rendition of an Ornithopter, I thought, <i>“Yes! That’s exactly what it should look like!”</i> Same reaction to the Worm. This is the way it’s done. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-large;">Frank Herbert’s SF novel, “Dune,” has an incredibly dense backstory. How can you explain it all in a film adaptation — without choking your movie with exposition? (c.f. David Lynch) Denis Villeneuve & Co. solved the problem by leaving out a ton of the exposition. There’s no explanation of the Mentats, the Butlerian Jihad. He doesn’t shoehorn in a scene where the Navigators explain how they fold space. He just drops you into the story, first from the oppressed Chani’s POV, then from Paul’s POV. He trusts you’re smart enough to figure it out as you go along.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-large;">In both David Lynch's adaptation and the TV miniseries</span></p><p><br /></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-large;">The screenwriters stick very close to the novel. They distill it, but change very little. The changes they make are smart and give the story more power. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">A few changes airbursh some of the novels un-PC blemishes. So, the “jihad”: becomes a”holy war.” “Mood is a thing for cattle and women,” gets clipped, too. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Unlike the film or TV series adaptations, this film version doesn’t down play the precognitive horror of the holy war Paul’s going to ignite. In Frank Herbert’s world, Messiahs and their cults of personality get a lot of people killed. The other adaptations totally missed that. And pretty much sold Paul as Mr. White Savior Jesus from Space.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Pau’s trippy flash-forwards also keep the story moving. It’s also clear they’re glimpses of possible futures. (The other adaptations missed that, too.)</span></p>Marty Fugatehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05077693961075517845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-345052541839184472.post-28563703091130183202021-06-10T19:26:00.007-07:002021-06-10T19:27:32.827-07:00Drive-by Review: “James Cameron’s Story of Science Fiction.”<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B7x_H9Uh8ds/YMLJxD_L1ZI/AAAAAAAAI1Q/-eB7ADBmtwcUg_KlAlo0dhwTKcbEx0skgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1440/JCSSF.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="960" height="988" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B7x_H9Uh8ds/YMLJxD_L1ZI/AAAAAAAAI1Q/-eB7ADBmtwcUg_KlAlo0dhwTKcbEx0skgCLcBGAsYHQ/w658-h988/JCSSF.jpg" width="658" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br />James Cameron has earned some grudging respect in the SF community. The man knows his SF. More importantly, he knows from whom to steal. Just ask Harlan Ellison, Ursula K. LeGuinn, Roger Dean … ah, but I digress.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Cameron has this online series. It</span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">’s packaged under the humble title, “James Cameron’s Story of Science Fiction.” Yeah. Slick as greased snot, but worth watching. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">And I get to the second ep. AKA … “Season 1, Ep. 2 Space.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">About 23 minutes in, James Cameron (in ass-kissing, I-defer-to-the-prophet’s-ego mode) is interviewing George Lucas …</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">James Cameron: You single-handedly revolutionized science-fiction and pop culture with “Star Wars” in 1977. ‘Cause it had been three decades of downer stuff — dystopian stuff, apocalyptic stuff — and science fiction was making less and less and less money every year, and all of a sudden, you came along with another vision. One of wonder and hope and empowerment — and boom!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">George Lucas: “Star Wars” is a space opera. It’s not science fiction. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">OK, Lucas is (rightfully) self-deprecating and not claiming to have revolutionized a genre he has no claim too. Cameron on the other hand …</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Grrrr. Argghh.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">[Insert scene of projectile-vomiting here.]</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">OK, right. Let me get this straight …</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Cameron, after offering a suck-up, tribute to George Lucas (the living filmgod!), dismissively pisses on “A Clockwork Orange,” “La Jetée,” “Quartermass and the Pit,” “Colossus: The Forbin Project,” "La Planète Sauvage,” “The Planet of the Apes,” “Dark Star,” "The Stepford Wives,” "Westworld,” “Silent Running,” “Zardoz,” “Soylent Green,” “Invasion of the Body Snatchers” (both versions), and (hardy-har) “THX-1138” …? Why? Because it’s “… downer stuff, dystopian stuff, apocalyptic stuff.” And even worse? Bad box office numbers! Said SF “was making less and less and less money every year!” </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">[Insert scene of projectile-vomiting here.]</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">On top of his vicious disrespect to the dangerous visionaries of the 1960s and ’70s, Cameron is a hypocrite to boot. “The Terminator” was no shot of “wonder, hope and empowerment.” It was a grim, punk-rock, slap in the face. Downer stuff, dystopian stuff, apocalyptic stuff, one might say. The kind of thing Harlan Ellison, might write, you know? “Aliens” was just as alienating. My point …</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">[Insert scene of projectile-vomiting here.]</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">… just a visceral, Pavlovian revulsion to Cameron’s lack of class. I might mention Harlan Ellison’s “Luke Skywalker is a nerd and Darth Vader sucks runny eggs,” but that would seem classless on my part. Lucas never lied about his sources. Or pissed on other artists, either.</span></p>Marty Fugatehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05077693961075517845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-345052541839184472.post-55926495163479632652021-05-18T17:21:00.006-07:002021-05-18T20:46:18.056-07:00A post-modernist post-mortem<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"></span><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DSDM9-pIvAE/YKSJVApn19I/AAAAAAAAIzk/txV6h2uRoUo0h7mePQ54Vayyw_xQ_ouvACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/GravitysRainbow_MOD.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1385" data-original-width="2048" height="685" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DSDM9-pIvAE/YKSJVApn19I/AAAAAAAAIzk/txV6h2uRoUo0h7mePQ54Vayyw_xQ_ouvACLcBGAsYHQ/w1013-h685/GravitysRainbow_MOD.jpg" width="1013" /></a></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br />Sooner or later it had to happen. Post-modernist art is dead. Long live post-post modernism! Do I have a handle on the new flavor? I do not. I’m still catching up with the post-mods. Let’s start with my dim understanding of that …</span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Post-modernist art was all about self-conscious, thumb-in-your-eye artifice. Illusion of life? F*ck that shit.<i> “Look, Ma! This is a painting! It ain’t real!” </i>Post-mod novels, plays, and performance art were equally unreal. (Post-mod architecture was just really ugly.) <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Post-mod artists suspended the suspension of disbelief from the gallows, and replaced the author’s “voice” with a mechanical larynx box. But the voice was never there to begin with! Like God and Santa, the “author” doesn’t exist, so how could they have a voice? The “author” is a fiction! (Especially fiction authors!) Their “voice” is a clever ventriloquist’s trick. What you’re <i>really </i>hearing is the System talking. It’s the voice of capitalist mind control bending you to its all-consuming will! Oh you think that’s a painting of a pretty flower? Put on these post-mod sunglasses, pal.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">CONSUME! OBEY! REPRODUCE!</span></b><span style="font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Yeah. Now you get the picture.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">A little post-mod trick called “deconstruction” exposed the hidden manipulation lurking behind the sappy bourgeoisie commodity of art and literature. “That story you just read. It would’ve been really sad if it actually happened, huh?” Shit like that. This gimmick was invented by cranky French art critics who pissed in every punchbowl they could find. Artists of all descriptions drank the Kool-Aid.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Novelists realized they had nothing to say. And said it in 900 pages.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Visual artists with nothing to paint, sculpt or draw captured the screaming emptiness across a range of mediums.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Hey, the post-mods weren’t<i> all </i>bad. (Thomas Pynchon and William Gibson flipped the one-sided Mobius strip of media and power. They took you into a funhouse mirror maze. But they still had stories to tell.)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Ah, but the bulk of post-mod art was sterile and boring. It was a one-trick pony. A dead end. A series of jokes with the same stale punchline that was old in Shakespeare’s time. “This play isn’t real.” How clever. What a clever artist you are.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">That illusion-killing cleverness was the point—and the post-mod artist’s payoff. You chumps are trapped in a false narrative? The clever arteest will spoil the show and ruin the ride. That sounds mean, but it’s a victimless crime, people. It’s like attacking the audioanimatronic bears at Walt Disney World’s Country Bear Jamboree with a sledgehammer. The artist smashes them to bolts and bits. S<i>o what? They don’t feel anything. These “bears” are just stupid machines. They’re not even alive—so can tell your kid to stop crying, OK? And stop looking at me like that! F*ck you—you assholes should thank me! I just set you free from this corporate bullshit. Now go home and do your taxes.<o:p></o:p></i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">This post-mod, bait-and-switch buzzkill got very old, very quickly—about the time it popped out of the womb, in fact. Like any intellectual fad, it wasn’t defeated by an opposing philosophy. The post-mod artists and critics just got old and started to die.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Now what?<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Sigh.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Now ...</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Like some shiny, polite beast, post-post modernist art struts to Bethlehem to be born. And there’s music, too! <i>God … where's that repetitive beat coming from? Augggh … it’s a retro drum machine. And now the beast is singing. That warbling voice … Oh Christ. It’s autotuned!</i></span><span style="font-family: Cambria;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>Marty Fugatehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05077693961075517845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-345052541839184472.post-69050382277594856342021-04-06T21:45:00.017-07:002021-04-08T08:52:31.624-07:00Book Review: John Shirley's "Stormland"<div><b style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-align: center;"></b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-align: center;"><b><b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-large; line-height: 48px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline !important;"><b><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bgTrSyy7Op0/YG8mp40lkfI/AAAAAAAAIws/TktKDJufHVsZcCLZDxuPzJPdVElyTnRXwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1775/Stormland-5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1199" data-original-width="1775" height="440" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bgTrSyy7Op0/YG8mp40lkfI/AAAAAAAAIws/TktKDJufHVsZcCLZDxuPzJPdVElyTnRXwCLcBGAsYHQ/w652-h440/Stormland-5.JPG" width="652" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-large; line-height: 48px;"><br /></span></b></b></div></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline !important;"><b><b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-large; line-height: 48px;">A Hard Rain is Going to Fall</span></b></b></div></b></div></span></b></b></b></div></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 24px;"> </span><i style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: large;">We have met the future and it sucks. The forecast is brutal in John Shirley's "Stormland."</span></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">The hellish opening pages of John Shirley’s <i>Stormland</i> remind me of </span><i style="font-family: Arial;">Escape from New York. </i><span style="font-family: Arial;">Bang! Shirley’s protagonist is on the move to a very shitty place. How shitty? As shitty as it gets. Aye. It’s a sea voyage, matey. A murky, slime-streaked trip! A bad trip, obviously. Shirley's magical misery trip begins with no draggy exposition, just a few clues and offhand comments. But the character's destination is clear …</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;">Welcome to hell. Contrary to popular opinion, it isn’t hot. It’s wet and soggy.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;"><i>Stormland</i> is set in an unspecified future. Maybe 25 years from now, maybe 75. The uninformed reader might think it's a scary "sci-fi" book about climate change. The novel's protagonist (Darryl Webb, an ex-US Marshal, turned bounty hunter) thinks he’s going to nab a shitty, mass-murdering fugitive hiding out in a shitty stretch of the South Carolina coast called “Stormland.” Webb arrives at his shitty destination in a shitty underwater vehicle called an “amphisub.” (By this point, attentive readers will have noticed the prevailing "shit" theme.) As Pvt. “Pyle” observed in Stanley Kubrick's <i>Full Metal Jacket</i>, <i>“I am in a world of shit.” </i>Webb knows exactly how the man feels. But <i>changing </i>this shitty world isn’t even an option for him. <i>Abandon all hope ye who enter. </i>Webb did, a long time ago. Along with everyone else who had a grain of sense.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;">That’s what you find out. In just the first few pages.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;">Shirley doesn’t lecture or preach in the pages that follow. He grabs you by the throat and drags you into his drowned hellworld. Webb and the other inhabitants of that world don’t find it particularly hellish. It’s just their world. Climate change isn’t an issue anymore, at least to them. The climate done changed a long time ago. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;">By way of analogy, consider the Fertile Crescent. Thanks to the assaults of early human civilization, the Fertile Crescent. Isn’t. It’s a fucking desert now. The people who live there aren’t surprised. <i>Oh fuck! Look at all this fucking sand! </i>Nah. They just live with it. The inhabitants of Shirley’s soggy hell feel the same way about the fucking rain. And that rain has clearly washed away much of their humanity.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;">In clever synechdoche, Shirley tosses you the bones of brutal character details on the first leg of Webb's voyage. <i>A callous remark about a dead brother. A captain who puts a gun in Webb’s face when the bounty hunter sneers at calling his shitty boat a “vessel.”</i> Details like that. These people are damaged and hard. Survival mode is their default setting. It’s not even a choice anymore. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;">You figure that out after a few more pages.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;">In a nasty bit of brilliance, Shirley then continues his ripping yarn <i>as if he were writing for the people of this lousy time. </i>Yeah, he’s not writing for <i>you. </i>This isn’t science fiction, baby. This is now. Shirley's readers are in 2117 (or whatever), and the drowned world is just background — and in the present tense. These future readers are here for the <i>story</i> — a manhunt, a police procedural, a detective story, whatever. Or so it seems …<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;">Whatever you call it, Webb’s bounty hunter’s hunt goes on. Unlike John Carpenter’s Snake Plissken or William Gibson’s Case, Webb isn’t motivated by time-released toxin sacks in his bloodstream that will kill him if he doesn’t complete his task on time. Nobody’s forcing him to do the job. Webb needs the money.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;">Webb’s financially motivated manhunt unfolds with vivid description — always grounded in the character’s phenomenological experience of physical reality. Shirley interweaves this sense data with Webb’s stream of consciousness and expositional info bursts. All these threads come together effortlessly. (At least you might think so if “writer” isn’t your job description. Having fucked up a few verbal tapestries in my time, I can assure you it’s not.)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;">Webb’s brutal quest slogs on to its ineluctable end. Shirley being Shirley, he flips the script several times along the way. I’d be a right bastard to spoil the surprise, so I won’t. But here’s a hint …<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><i><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;">Heartlessness is a defense mechanism. Hope is the cruelest gift of Pandora’s Box. Ernest Cline danced around the point in "Ready Player One," but let’s speak the plain truth. In a crapsack world, VR is a better rush than heroin. Reality sucks. But it’s the only dance there is. Human beings can adapt to anything! Don’t smile, idiot. That sucks, too.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;">Clear as mud, I know. But it all makes sense if you read <i>Stormland</i>. I highly recommend it.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;">Shirley's at the top of his game in this novel. <i>Stormland</i> is up there with his <i>Eclipse</i> trilogy and <i>City Come a Walking</i>. Simply put, Shirley’s story is great. The words that deliver his story are, too. But unforgiving. Shirley’s prose is as hard as a <i>Dim Mak</i> death punch. How shall I put it? </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><i><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;">Shirley can hit with both hands and move around and he will kill you if you are not awfully careful... Mr. Shirley, boy, you are good. <o:p></o:p></span></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><i><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;"> </span></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;">Actually, to be honest, that’s what Hemingway said about Nelson Algren’s <i>The Man with the Golden Arm.</i> I figure it also applies to <i>Stormland</i>, and I couldn't find a better way to put it. And he’s Hemingway, right? I can’t improve on Hemingway, right? Anyway, he’s dead, so who cares? And where was I?<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;">Book review. Right.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;">OK. Uh. Bruce Sterling covered some of the same soggy ground in <i>Heavy Weather. </i>Shirley’s novel is more like <i>Heavy Weather,</i> ten or twenty years later. As if the hard rain kept falling. And then got harder. J.G. Ballard took a similar plunge in <i>The Drowned World</i> — a novel he wrote for the money and ultimately disowned. A half-assed thought experiment, at best. But Shirley doesn’t play that. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;"><i>Stormland </i>isn’t a glass bead game. In plain English, it’s not an intellectual exercise. Or a <i>Waterworld</i> variation of <i>Mad Max </i>for that matter. There’s no winking, no hint of camp. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;">Shirley is dead serious. His characters are flesh and blood — and that’s the real strength of his writing. <i>Abandon all hope. </i>That’s what his characters do. Shirley gets you under their skin. He makes you feel their hopeless reality.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large; line-height: 24px;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; line-height: 24px;"><span style="font-size: large;">And then you know how it feels.</span></span></p>Marty Fugatehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05077693961075517845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-345052541839184472.post-6815819677497154662021-03-10T13:13:00.009-08:002021-03-10T17:46:00.997-08:00"I Care a Lot" • Suggested Rewrite<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-llResWIKVG0/YEl2Q0i4UWI/AAAAAAAAIuM/qoxeVoDKew0G39VH2Gd9bFf7HxbaJ_TgQCLcBGAsYHQ/s960/Jennifer-I-Care_CROP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="960" height="522" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-llResWIKVG0/YEl2Q0i4UWI/AAAAAAAAIuM/qoxeVoDKew0G39VH2Gd9bFf7HxbaJ_TgQCLcBGAsYHQ/w651-h522/Jennifer-I-Care_CROP.jpg" width="651" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br />INT, ADULT CARE FACILITY – DAY</span><p></p><p><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Jennifer Peterson’s first glimpse of her new “home from home.” A white hell, straight out of “THX-1138.” Over-medicated elderly guests wander around in a daze. They’re not even that elderly.</span></i></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Marla's right behind her. Happy. She's led a new sheep to the slaughter.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Marla: Could I have your cell phone? I’ll call my number so you can add me to your contacts. It’s just easier.</span></p><p><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Marla reaches out her hand. The woman known as “Jennifer Peterson” hesitates. She knows it’s a trick. She blinks.</span></i></p><p><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Flashback to a memory from Jennifer’s point-of-view.</span></i></p><p><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Black and white footage. </span></i></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">INT, SOVIET MENTAL HOSPITAL (Circa 1980)</span></p><p><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Objective POV. Jennifer, younger, no lines on her face, but clearly the same person.</span></i></p><p><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">All hell is breaking loose. Alarms are ringing, lights flashing. Jennifer has broken into the nurse’s station. She’s desperately punching the numbers of an ugly phone.</span></i></p><p><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">A brutal orderly runs up and shouts at her.</span></i></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Orderly: Nyet telefona!”</span></p><p><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">The Orderly smashes her hand with a truncheon. The young woman winces her eyes but doesn’t cry out.</span></i></p><p><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Back to the present. Color footage.</span></i></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">INT, ADULT CARE FACILITY - DAY</span></p><p><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“Jennifer” opens her eyes.</span></i></p><p><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Like a simpleton who just fell of the turnip truck, Jennifer hands her cellphone to Marla. But speaks before Marla can pocket it.</span></i></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Jennifer: Just keep it, Marla. Please. I won’t be needing it, hmm? This wonderful place has everything I need.</span></p><p><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Jennifer smiles like a happy dimwit.</span></i></p><p><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Marla looks at her suspiciously.</span></i></p><p><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Jennifer’s point of view. Montage, indication that time is going by. She looks at various nurse’s and orderlies in the care facility. She also studies the patients, but mostly keeps an eye on the professionals. Their patterns of movement, attitudes, personalities. She’s studying the chessboard.</span></i></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">INT, MARLA’S OFFICE - DAY</span></p><p><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Marla and her flunky study security footage of Jennifer.</span></i></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Flunky: She seems to be taking it well.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Marla: (<i>Not buying it.</i>) Seems to be.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">INT, ADULT CARE FACILITY</span></p><p><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Back to Jennifer’s point of view.</span></i></p><p><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">The montage continues. More time passes. Jennifer narrows her focus to a caregiver named LuAnn. Sees little acts of warmth, empathy, compassion. Studies her for awhile.</span></i></p><p><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Then, one day, in a blind spot away from the cameras, she palms LuAnn a piece of paper with a number on it.</span></i></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Jennifer: I need your help, LuAnn.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">LuAnn: I’m happy to help …</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Jennifer: (<i>whispering</i>) Call this number. </span></p><p><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">LuAnn doesn’t take the paper. Afraid of losing her job.</span></i></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Jennifer: Please, LuAnn. It’s the right thing to do. It’s the <i>human </i>thing to do.</span></p><p><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Jennifer’s big, sincere eyes appeal to LuAnn’s humanity. She melts. And takes the piece of paper.</span></i></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">After this set-up, Marla and Jennifer would have a cat-and-mouse game over the course of the movie. The dynamic would resemble "The Prisoner," especially the "Hammer into Anvil" episode. Jennifer would slowly regain control and assert her agency in a battle of wills with Marla. (And Jennifer — who's the real mob boss -- would bring an amazing skill set to the battle. Compared to the Soviet Union, the f**king nursing home is no big deal.) Jennifer's scenes would be intercut with scenes of Marla starting to panic, and Roman and the Russian mob giving her reason to panic. (These could be relatively unchanged, though the Russian mobsters should be more competent.) But they'd be acting under Jennifer's smuggled-out orders, not trying to rescue granny. And Jennifer would have agency. The point of the story would be that Marla bit off more than she could chew.</span></p><div><br /></div>Marty Fugatehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05077693961075517845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-345052541839184472.post-35662760815640159182020-12-27T06:29:00.004-08:002020-12-27T06:29:57.252-08:00Review: The Stand (2020 CBS miniseries) <p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F6AlPdF5t8M/X-iaT1xYUnI/AAAAAAAAIqU/tgBaCE3OCjYs2AMXf_ohWINt3wxUbrXVgCLcBGAsYHQ/s973/TheStand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="973" data-original-width="685" height="778" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F6AlPdF5t8M/X-iaT1xYUnI/AAAAAAAAIqU/tgBaCE3OCjYs2AMXf_ohWINt3wxUbrXVgCLcBGAsYHQ/w547-h778/TheStand.jpg" width="547" /></a></b></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b><br />Drive-by Review</b>: <i>The Stand</i>. It doesn’t. Nope, the new CBS adaptation is as limp as a wet noodle. Doesn’t, er, stand up to the original 1994 miniseries. That adaptation had its share of cheese. But it also had an electric sense of dramatic pacing. Its opening scene—where the camera hovers over the instant casualties in a covert CBRN research facility to the tune of Blue Öyster Cult’s “Don’t Fear the Reaper”—how could you possibly top that? The answer is, you can’t. That scene burned in my brain—along with many others. I could multiply examples—to the point I could sit down and whip out a rough storyboard if so asked. The bad brains behind this latest adaptation didn’t want to go over old ground. They didn’t want to draw from Marvel’s outstanding comic book adaptation. They didn’t even want to give undead life to Rospo Pallenberg’s insanely great screenplay adaptation for a tragically unmade George Romero film. Nah. These geniuses wanted to take a fresh approach—which is to say they started the story in the middle and made a hash out of the various sequentially scrambled scenes. Their dialog bends over backward to avoid repeating the lines from Stephen King's original novel (or any of the adaptations listed above). The screenwriters in question (Josh Boone & Benjamin Cavell) also don’t dig the fact that “The Stand” is essentially a road picture (or “Lord of the Rings” ripoff) for most of the first third. There’s no sense of movement—no sense of scope, or a big, terrifying world surrounding the characters in their respective quests through the chaos. What’s left is an oddly cramped, static, claustrophobic vibe. And no sense of fear whatsoever. I’m only judging by the first episode, true. But I have no desire to see the next one. (That’s kindofa death sense for a miniseries, eh?) It only cost me 99 cents for my first month’s subscription to CBS All Access. But I want my money back.</span><p></p>Marty Fugatehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05077693961075517845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-345052541839184472.post-12311906693025936182020-12-16T07:35:00.005-08:002020-12-16T07:35:34.094-08:00Review: "Tenet"<p> <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-it5LCYxLOGU/X9mPWZYLuYI/AAAAAAAAIpk/A6Y15R2FN4M8dy8YWwl5U6PZ-tLLOHZ4gCLcBGAsYHQ/s1280/Tenet.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="373" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-it5LCYxLOGU/X9mPWZYLuYI/AAAAAAAAIpk/A6Y15R2FN4M8dy8YWwl5U6PZ-tLLOHZ4gCLcBGAsYHQ/w662-h373/Tenet.jpg" width="662" /></a></p><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Christopher Nolan’s </span><span><i style="font-family: arial;">Tenet</i><span style="font-family: arial;">. Made me think, it did—and thinking usually leads to talking. So what the hell do I say about this movie? Damned if I know. But I better get started ...</span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Okey-doke.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Based on trailer and track record, I was expecting a whiz-bang, timey-whimey movie. Like <i>Inception</i>. Except it’s time, not dreams. You figure some Big Bad in the future is screwing with decent folks like you and me in the present. The Protagonist will stop him. But there’s a twist, natch. (Heck, maybe the Protagonist IS the Big Bad!) Or something like that.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Yep. Something like that. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">But not that fun.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>Tenet </i>reminds me of the flaws in my own writing. That’s not a bad thing. It actually gives me hope.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Aside from his Scrooge McDuck levels of personal wealth and amazing creative accomplishments, director Christopher Nolan and I have a great deal in common. I’m a science fiction writer. He’s a science fiction writer. I’m fascinated with time. So is Nolan. And we’re both also fascinated with complicated, paradoxical plots.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">My typical SF story is a riddle, wrapped in a mystery, shrouded in an enigma, inside a tiny Russian doll with wheels-within-wheels spinning in its pointy little head. (There’s also a tasty hard candy center.) In a short story you can get away with it—all you have room for is one PhilDickian surprise. (Christ! I am the robot! Auggh!) In a novel, it’s like driving a ten-ton dynamite truck over a tattered rope bridge.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Late in life, I’ve discovered that Joe Reader has limited patience with this Nabokovian nonsense. Especially when it necessitates mind-numbing passages of expository dialog.</span></p><p><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“The Cosmic Egg. That’s the key—but they’ve got it all wrong.”</span></i></p><p><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“You mean the Cosmic Chicken came first?”</span></i></p><p><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“No—it’s deeper than that. It’s … Before the Cosmic Chicken … Before that …”</span></i></p><p><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“Take a breath baby.”</span></i></p><p><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“… there was the Cosmic Chicken Ranch. Before that …”</span></i></p><p><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“The Cosmic Colonel Sanders?”</span></i></p><p><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“Yeah. But who’s he working for? Who’s he selling his “buckets” to?”</span></i></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">After ten pages of this, Joe’s eyes roll back in his skull. He immediately pitches backwards in his chair, gouges the back of his skull on a stainless-steel Ikea coffeetable, and has to go to the Emergency Room.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Joe, like the middlebrow non-English-Major slob he is, gives less than a shit for brainy, paradoxical puzzles. This mouthbreather cares more about the mysteries of the human heart. Characters he can relate to and all that shit. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Knowing this painful truth, I fight to keep the yattayatta to a minimum. To that end, I ask myself a series of painful questions: <i>Is this scene going on too long? What can I cut? What Darlings can I bury in unmarked graves? How can I shake this dull passage up with some left-field surprise? Is Joe getting bored? How can I keep that sumbitch entertained?</i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Nolan, unwashed phenomenon that he is, has stopped asking himself these questions. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">The scenes go on too long. And then they keep going. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>INT. APPRAISAL ROOM. Protagonist chats with Young Woman. There’s a Goya drawing in a Harrod’s shopping bag. It’s a fake. The Young Woman sold it to her husband the evil Russian something something lover didn’t know something something Plutonium 231 backwards time something.</i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Sorry, what?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Don’t get me wrong. The movie’s problem is boredom, not a lack of clarity. If you pay close attention, you'll know exactly what’s going on. Nolan is very clear. From premise to conclusion, he builds his logical artifice like an OCD kid with a new set of Legos.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">For all its temporal paradox, this is a very linear movie. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">That’s a weakness, not a strength.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Imagine what Quentin Tarantino could do with this material. His hypothetical film opens in the middle—<i>Reservoir Dogs</i>-style. No warning! The Protagonist (yeah, that’s what he is in the script) is waist-deep in some life-threatening shit. Whoa! <i>That car is driving backwards! </i>You have no clue what’s going on—then find out in economical flashbacks. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">This material could also work with the approach Martin Scorsese used in <i>After Hours</i>. Send the character on a pell-mell trip like Alice down the rabbit hole. <i>What the f**k is going on? </i>You’re on the run. There’s no time to answer that question.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Yeah. Two cinematic possibilities, free of charge. But that’s not what you get.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Nolan's movie, for all its puzzle-master, egghead brainyness, is too damn predictable. No misdirection, no swerves. The film’s rhythm creates an expectation—and never violates it.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">The fight scenes and action sequences are cleverly choreographed … and fail to grab you by the heart and gonads. The Protagonist is so ultra-cool-competent, he never breaks a sweat. Never lets on: <i>Shit, this could all go wrong. </i>Nah. The man doesn’t worry. You don’t either. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">What’s left is a puzzle. An insanely brilliant puzzle. It's a great idea—entirely self-consistent. I’m in awe of Nolan’s mind. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">But the trailer was better. Hell, if they’d hired me as a script-doctor, I could’ve made this movie better.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">And that gives me hope.</span></p>Marty Fugatehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05077693961075517845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-345052541839184472.post-51371565346240207002020-10-22T20:15:00.011-07:002020-10-22T21:06:28.921-07:00"Boris' Inferno" or "That's One Hell of a Big Hole"<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X5h5Df5W5Qs/X5JJ-OXGyNI/AAAAAAAAIoI/0RVgn400Zb81lw18OwJlQF3P0yPvNJ--QCLcBGAsYHQ/s1200/Bullwinkle-Hellhole.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="671" data-original-width="1200" height="374" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X5h5Df5W5Qs/X5JJ-OXGyNI/AAAAAAAAIoI/0RVgn400Zb81lw18OwJlQF3P0yPvNJ--QCLcBGAsYHQ/w672-h374/Bullwinkle-Hellhole.jpg" width="672" /></a></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><span style="orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><br /><i>EXT, SKY. Rocky's flying around a flaming, smoking X-Plane plunging straight down to Mother Earth.</i></span></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><span style="orphans: 2; widows: 2;">Announcer: (OS) We leave Rocky in a valiant attempt to rescue Gary Powers from his X-Plane's death-spiral toward certain doom.</span></span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><span>Bullwinkle: </span><i>(in X-Plane cockpit, wearing pilot's helmet) </i><span>I'm not really Gary Powers, kids. The story's kinda complicated.</span></span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Announcer: Thousands of miles away, Boris and Natasha have been spelunking in the caves of Turkmenistan. This improbable vacation is a last-ditch attempt to rekindle their failing romance. But they discover a fire of a different kind ...</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>INT, CAVE. Natasha Fatale and Boris Badanov confront a ghastly hellmouth.</i></span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Natasha: You see what I see, Boris?</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Boris: Is metaphysical question, Natasha. Am high-school drop-out, OK? How should I know?</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Natasha: Is horrible pit to hell, Boris!</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Boris: As opposed to nice pit to hell?</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Natasha: Is not time to be funny, Boris.</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Boris: You can say that again.</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Natasha: Is not time to …</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Boris: Shaddup! Fearless Leader is here.</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>Fearless Leader is, indeed, standing right behind them.</i></span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Natasha: Hello, Fearless Leader.</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Fearless Leader: “Hello” pfui! Big problem this is!</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Boris: No kidding! Big problem for entire humanity!</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Fearless Leader: No, stupid idiot. Big problem for you!</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Boris: Ho-boy. Is blame-shifting time?</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Fearless Leader: No, Boris. Is time now I pin big heroic medal on your chest.</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Boris: Really, Fearless Leader?</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Fearless Leader: Really, Boris. Cross heart and hope to die.</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Boris: Ho-boy! I fall to my knees Fearless Leader! (<i>Boris does</i>.) Thank you so …</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Natasha: Fearless Leader is f**king with you, Boris.</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Boris: Wash mouth out with soap, Natasha! Is insult to …</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Fearless Leader: Natasha is right, Boris. Natasha is always smart one—and much more sexy.</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Natasha: (<i>whispering</i>) Please to get up, Boris.</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Boris: OK, OK. Eccch. So embarrassing.</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">(<i>Boris stands up</i>.)</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Fearless Leader: Is touching relationship.</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Boris: Not lately.</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Fearless Leader: Shaddup! Sexy or not, Natasha is scapegoat, too. Is nothing personal.</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>Unholy, guttural howls emerge from the flaming vortex.</i></span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Natasha: The devil things are making bad noise in hellhole, Fearless Leader.</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Fearless Leader: “Hellhole”…?</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>Natasha points.</i></span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Natasha: Rip in space-time continuum, dimensional vortex … whatever. Such terminology is unclear to me, Fearless Leader. Is not my area of training, OK?</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Fearless Leader: “Training” … pfui! You are covering for loser boyfriend!</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Boris: Am not loser.</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Natasha: Is not boyfriend.</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Fearless Leader: Shaddup! This hole is “Boris Hole,” obviously. Name is written all over it!</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Boris: Is not.</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Fearless Leader: I now take closer look.</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Natasha: Please not to be getting too close Fearless …</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Fearless Leader: Aggghhhh!</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>Fearless Leader plunges into the hellmouth. Boris and Natasha watch his descent with a mixture of relief and horror.</i></span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Boris: Ho-boy. Is loss of recurring character, Natasha. Now what?</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Natasha: Now we cut to commercial, Boris. All problems will go away.</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Boris: You think, Natasha? Pfui! Is something stupid Americans believe!</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Natasha: Is American show, Boris. Wave goodbye.</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Boris and Natasha wave. Screams emerge from the gaping</i></span><i style="font-family: arial;"> wound in time and space.</i></span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>Cut to — whatever.</i></span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Announcer: (<i>OS</i>) Are we back? Wow. That was ... Hi kids! Uh. Don't forget to buy more Cheerios! Or whatever it was. And be sure to tune in to next week's exciting episode of "Rocky and Bullwinkle." Assuming the world is still here. Don't ask me. Nobody tells me anything.</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Bullwinkle: (OS) Oh boo-hoo-hoo. You don't hear me complaining.</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>EXT, view of Bullwinkle inside the doomed X-Plane's cockpit. Rocky's flying around, desperately trying to pry it open.</i></span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Rocky: Hang in there, pal.</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Bullwinkle: Anything you say, Rock. Anything you say.</span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p>Marty Fugatehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05077693961075517845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-345052541839184472.post-82870797652847472552020-10-22T19:29:00.005-07:002020-10-22T20:10:06.191-07:00"Boris' Inferno" or "That's One Hell of a Big Hole"<p><span style="font-size: large;">Announcer: We leave Rocky in a valiant attempt to rescue Gary Powers from his X-Plane's death-spiral toward certain doom.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span>Bullwinkle: </span><i>(in X-Plane cockpit, wearing pilot's helmet) </i><span>I'm not really Gary Powers. The story's kinda complicated.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Announcer: Thousands of miles away, Boris and Natasha have been spelunking in the caves of Turkmenistan. This improbable vacation is a last-ditch attempt to rekindle their failing romance. But they discover a fire of a different kind ...</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><i>INT, cave. Natasha Fatale and Boris Badanov confront a ghastly hellmouth.</i></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Natasha: You see what I see, Boris?</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Boris: Is metaphysical question, Natasha. Am high-school drop-out, OK? How should I know?</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Natasha: Is horrible pit to hell, Boris!</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Boris: As opposed to nice pit to hell?</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Natasha: Is not time to be funny, Boris.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Boris: You can say that again.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Natasha: Is not time to …</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Boris: Shaddup! Fearless Leader is here.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Fearless Leader is, indeed, standing right behind them.</i></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Natasha: Hello, Fearless Leader.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Fearless Leader: “Hello” pfui! Big problem this is!</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Boris: No kidding! Big problem for entire humanity!</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Fearless Leader: No, stupid idiot. For you!</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Boris: Ho-boy. Is blame-shifting time?</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Fearless Leader: No, Boris. Is time now I pin big heroic medal on your chest.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Boris: Really, Fearless Leader?</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Fearless Leader: Really, Boris. Cross heart and hope to die.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Boris: Ho-boy! I fall to my knees Fearless Leader! (<i>Boris does</i>.) Thank you so …</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Natasha: Fearless Leader is f**king with you, Boris.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Boris: Wash mouth out with soap, Natasha! Is insult to …</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Fearless Leader: Natasha is right, Boris. Natasha is always smart one—and much more sexy.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Natasha: (<i>whispering</i>) Please to get up, Boris.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Boris: OK, OK. Yuck. So embarrassing.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">(<i>Boris stands up</i>.)</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Fearless Leader: Is touching relationship.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Boris: Not lately.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Fearless Leader: Shaddup! Sexy or not, Natasha is scapegoat, too. Is nothing personal.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Unholy, guttural howls emerge from the flaming vortex.</i></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Natasha: The devil things are making noise in hellhole, Fearless Leader.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Fearless Leader: “Hell hole”…?</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Natasha points.</i></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Natasha: Rip in space-time continuum, dimensional vortex … whatever. Such terminology is unclear to me, Fearless Leader. Is not my area of training, OK?</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Fearless Leader: “Training” … pfui! You are covering for loser boyfriend!</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Boris: Am not loser.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Natasha: Is not boyfriend.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Fearless Leader: Shaddup! This hole is “Boris Hole,” obviously. I now take closer look.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Natasha: Please not to be getting too close Fearless …</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Fearless Leader: Aggghhhh!</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Fearless Leader falls into the hellmouth. Boris and Natasha watch his descent with a mixture of relief and horror.</i></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Boris: Ho-boy. Is loss of recurring character, Natasha. Now what?</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Natasha: Now we cut to commercial, Boris. All problems will go away.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Boris: You think, Natasha? Pfui! Is something Americans believe!</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Natasha: Is American show, Boris. Wave goodbye.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Boris and Natasha wave. Screams emerge from the hellmouth.</i></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Cut to —</i></span></p>Marty Fugatehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05077693961075517845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-345052541839184472.post-82576858562864873542020-10-08T18:53:00.010-07:002020-10-09T05:51:35.938-07:00 A Bump in the Road<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oPYIr5aEfVg/X4BckXHZwDI/AAAAAAAAIm0/Rw7WRfv7_QgMz5UE6Ktr9EBf4H8RGxd2ACLcBGAsYHQ/s1800/Fields-Oz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1350" data-original-width="1800" height="496" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oPYIr5aEfVg/X4BckXHZwDI/AAAAAAAAIm0/Rw7WRfv7_QgMz5UE6Ktr9EBf4H8RGxd2ACLcBGAsYHQ/w661-h496/Fields-Oz.jpg" width="661" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Jack wasn’t the employee of the year. Hey, at least he was employed. In this lousy pandemic, that’s nothing to sneeze at. Like all of the other exiled office drones, Jack worked from home, slapped on a happy face for the idiotic Zoom meetings, phoned it in, and did as little as possible. In his remaining free time (a shitload of free time) Jack consumed THC-laden edibles like candy, napped, and watched TV.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Fox? Shit no. CNN or MSNBC, but only in carefully measured doses. To Jack, the news was like one of those depressing science fiction movies from the 1970s.<i> This just in. Soylent Green is made out of people. The apes took over the world. Donald Trump won the election</i>. Aggh. Just when you think it couldn’t get any worse, it got worse. Now, it was no longer science fiction. It’s the fucking news. A predictable bummer. So, when Jack was on a guilt trip and wanted to punish himself, he watched the news. But most of the time, Jack glued his eyes to that old movie channel. TCM. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Today, they were running a W.C. Fields Marathon. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">The marathon started with a montage of Fields’ shorts. Jack overslept, and missed that. The morning ended with a brilliant documentary. He missed that, too.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Jack’s eyes popped open around noon. They’d started running Fields flicks in order. Not the bit parts. The movies where Fields was the star. And usually wrote.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>Tillie and Gus</i>. (1933)</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>You’re Telling Me</i>. (1934)</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>It’s a Gift</i>. (1934)</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>The Old Fashioned Way</i>. (1934)</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>You Can</i><i>’</i><i>t Cheat an Honest Man</i>. (1939)</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>My Little Chickadee</i>. (1940)</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>The Bank Dick</i>. (1940) </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Etcetera, etcetera. Jack knew that list by heart. Knew all the trivia, at a granular level. Years, directors, actors, you name it.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Fields was one of Jack’s role models growing up. He was kind of an expert in W.C. Fields arcana. Hell. Jack was a veritable Doctor of Fieldsology, yes indeed. If they ever put Jack on <i>Jeopardy</i> and “A Flask of Fields” was the category, he’d come home a rich man.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Jack had slept through the early gems. Then woke up in medias res in the second act of <i>You Can’t Cheat an Honest Man</i>. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">W.C. Fields was busting a dummy’s balls. A ventriloquist’s dummy of the wooden variety. Charlie McCarthy</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“Ah, my diminutive little chum. You must come over to the lumberyard with me and ride piggyback on the buzz saw.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">The doorbell rang.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Jack tried to ignore it.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">The doorbell kept ringing.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“Dad!” Muffled voice. His son shouting. “Aggghh! I’m in the bathroom! Get the door!”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>Ding.</i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“Dad! Agggh! It’s Anna! She’s coming over. Remember? I told you?”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>Ding.</i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Jack cursed, muted the TV, and finally got up. Shuffled away from the couch in a mustard-stained bathrobe.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Jack wasn’t the father of the year, either.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Shuffle, shuffle.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Finally opened the door.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Anna. Wearing a mask. Dark raven hair, white mask. Interesting contrast. Speaking merely as a graphic artist, not a dirty old man.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“Hello, Mr. Jones. May I …”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Jack waved her in, made sure his robe was appropriately closed. Anna entered awkwardly. Then looked up at him with this big-eyed, sincere expression. Serious eye contact, <i>agggh</i>. Jack smiled, shuddered and bit his lip.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Anna kind of terrified him. Pretty. Smart. Ridiculously formal and polite. The kid acted like a fugitive from another century. Or another country. Jack had the distinct impression she’d come from someplace else. <i>Columbia? Bulgaria? Fredonia? </i>Anna had told him once. Then twice. Jack was too embarrassed to ask again. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Anna stood there by the dead stereo system.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“Mr. Jones. Before you say anything, I assure you that I was tested for Covid three days ago. The result came in today—and it was negative. I have made no contact since the day of taking the test, sir. Do I have your permission to enter?”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“You already did, Anna.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">She blushed.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“Yes, course. How stupid of me. In that case … do I have your permission to now take off my mask?”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Jack nodded. Anna took the damn thing off.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“Thank you, Mr. Jones.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>Mr. Jones</i>. Goddamnit, that always reminded Jack of that Bob Dylan song about an asshole. Anna was the only person who ever called him that. What the fuck was he supposed to tell her? <i>Don’t call me Mr. Jones. There’s a famous song about a shithead …</i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Toilet flush. Scott walked out like Mr. Cool. Jack wanted to say, “Did everything come out alright?” But they’d give him dirty looks. Old joke. Old fossil.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Scott gave him a placid look. That look Scott gets when he’s going to say something weird.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Scott ran his fingers through his hair.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“Dad. Uh. I’ve got to tell you something?”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Fields was talking soundlessly. <i>Goddamnit! This scene is really funny! I’m missing it!</i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“Dad. Dad!”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“What?”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“I said I want to tell you something.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“OK, Scott. Uh. Tell me?” </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“Anna and I are going to be in our room, dad. For the rest of the day, maybe. We won’t be having sex.” </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Anna nodded furiously in agreement to this.” </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“We won’t be taking drugs. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">She nodded to that too.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“We’ll be doing stuff in the computer, dad. That’s it.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“I believe you, Scott.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Yeah, he did. No sex. No drugs. Very little rock and roll. Fuck. Sometimes Jack wished they would get high and screw. What’s wrong with these kids?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“I’ll tell you want we’re doing.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“Don’t explain, Scott. You don’t have to …”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“Thanks, dad.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Scott nodded, started walking to his room. Whew. Now the little bastards will finally disappear and do their thing. And Jack can finally get back to W.C. Fields. This is a very funny scene.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">But Anna put her little hand on Scott’s arm and stopped him.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Goddamnit.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“No, Scott. I want to explain.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“It’s OK, Anna. I trust you kids. You don’t owe me an explanation.” </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“I know, Mr. Jones. But I will feel better if I give it.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>Godfuckingdamnit. </i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Jack shrugged. Anna lauched into the explanation. Fields continued to flap his gums like a mute. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“Are you familiar with the multiverse theory, Mr. Jones?”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Jack nodded. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“Yeah. I read all about it in Spiderman.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Scott rolled his eyes. Anna pretended to laugh.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“That’s funny, sir. Of course the scientists thought of it first.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“Yeah, of course. Right. Sure.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“Well, sir. There’s another theory. Different scientists believe the universe is a quantum information system. A quantum computer.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“Wow. That’s news to me.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Scott looked at him.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“Dad! There was an article in <i>Wired</i>—the James Gleick interview. I gave it to you, remember? Did you read it?”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Jack shook his head no. Felt awkward. Cracked a joke.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“‘<i>Wired</i>’ is an anagram for ‘weird.’”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“That’s funny, sir.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Anna didn’t pretend to laugh this time.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“It’s a very good article, Mr. Jones. To paraphrase …. according to the principles of quantum mechanics, every electron has a spin. There are only two values. The spin is either up or down. Like binary code: On, off. But it isn’t ‘like’ code. It is code.” </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“For what?”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Scott cut in.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“For the universe itself, Dad! According to this model, the universe is a big quantum computer. It’s not a metaphor.” </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Jeff started hopping up and down.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“It’s the operating system! It’s the user interface! It’s both!”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“You say so, Scott.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“Well, lots of physicists say so. It’s their theory. But they forgot something.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Jeff giggled.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“What happens if you combine the cosmic computer model with the multiverse model? There’s only one conclusion. Anna thought of it first. Tell him Anna.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Jeff did a drum roll. Then she spoke.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“Well, Mr. Jones. We only exist in this particular universe because computational values have assigned us this hard drive address. That’s our theory.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Jeff flashed her a look. <i>Keep it simple, Anna. Dad doesn’t know the difference between a hard drive address and Hard Rock Café.</i> But Jack nodded like Stephen Hawking playing chess with God.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“Wicked cool idea, kids. I get it, OK? So that’s what you’ll be doing in the computer, right? You’ll be writing about it?”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Anna wrinkled her nose, shook her head.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“No, sir. We’ll be testing the theory.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“On the computer?”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“Yes, sir.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“On a Mac? Scott’s birthday present? From 2016?”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Anna blushed.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“Oh, Mr. Jones. I know it sounds stupid …”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">That pissed Jeff off.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“Don’t say that, Anna! It’s not stupid. Data is data. There’s just one information system. My shitty computer is part of it.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“I’ll take Scott’s word for it.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">And that would’ve been all she wrote. But, like a fucking idiot, Jack just had to ask.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“So how are you going to test this theory?”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>Goddamnit!</i> Jack wanted to bite his tongue off.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Anna didn’t notice. She just smiled.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“Well, Mr. Jones. We think that it is possible to create a feedback loop — that’s how we will change the hard drive address. The mind’s eye is how we write to the big computer.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“It’s how we hack it, get it?” said Scott. “Right, dad?”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Jack still didn’t get it. But he nodded like he did. Stephen Hawking saying “check” to God.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Anna gave Scott an angry look.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"> “Of course Mr. Jones gets it! He’s not an idiot! Each bit is a wave or particle, depending on observer interaction. That is also a binary system. Duh! Your father sees!”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“Well, Anna saw it first.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">She made a shy smile.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“But it’s just the beginning. Right, Anna?”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>Oh no. Goddamnit!</i> Jack could see where this was going. Scott is handing the ball to Anna. And Anna’s going to take it. <i>There’s more! This is going to keep going!</i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Fields was saying something hilarious. But Jack couldn’t read lips. He’s going to miss the whole movie. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>Goddamnit!</i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Anna picked up the ball. Again the shy smile.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“Well, Mr. Jones. According to Dirac, there is a sea of …”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Jack fell asleep for most of Anna’s explanation. But he seemed wide awake. A trick he’d learned in college. Jack could sleep with his eyes open. Blink and nod occasionally. At the exact right moment the boring speech was over, his consciousness would return. Some kind of instinct.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">When he woke up this time …</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Scott was talking.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“… random. Uh-uh. Not at all. It’s more like an actor doing another take on a scene. Like, when he blew his lines the first time. Now he gets to do it right.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Anna looked at Jack sadly. Those big eyes again.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“I think we are doing a bad job explaining to Mister Jones. Does this make any sense to you at all?”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“Oh yeah. Yeah, yeah, yeah. Perfect sense. Go for it, you crazy kids. What could possibly go wrong?</span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-large;">”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Rhetorical question. But it made them nervous as hell.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Scott bit his lip, then spit it out. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"> “That’s just it, dad. What we’re doing … It probably won’t work. But …”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“But?”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“The house might feel …” </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“If it works …”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“Which is highly unlikely.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“I know. We’re just stupid kids. But if it works …”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“You might feel a bump.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“A bump?”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“Yeah, dad. Like a car running over a log in the road.” </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Scott ran his fingers through his hair.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“But it’s like … like the car is the house.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Jack waved his hand.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“Don’t worry about it, kids. We’re insured, OK? Knock yourselves out.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Anna looked at him sadly.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“Thank you, Mr. Jones.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Jack shrugged.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Then Jeff and Anna ran off. And disappeared behind the bedroom door. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Finally.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Jack unmuted the TV again.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>The Bank Dick.</i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Fields was busting a chump’s balls. In this case, a chump of the flesh-and-blood human variety.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“Don’t be a luddy-duddy! Don’t be a mooncalf! Don’t be a jabbernowl! You’re not those, are you?”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Jack fell asleep halfway through the car chase. Then (in an odd bit of serendipitous, synchronicitous continuity) the whole house shook.<i> Like a car running over a log in the road ...</i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Jack woke up. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">The TV was playing a scene from another movie. W.C. Fields, definitely. But Jack couldn’t place the movie, and that was weird. Jack knew <i>all</i> of them. But he didn’t know this one.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Exterior shot, black-and-white. Not really outside. Studio, obviously. Shitty horse-drawn wagon, shabby dude in a top hat sitting in front of a campfire. W.C. Fields, big as life. A girl approaches, hesitant. Seen her before. Familiar, you know?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">A girl in a farm dress. A girl who looks exactly like Judy Garland.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Fields looks up and sees her. Starts talking to her.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“Ah, hello, my dear. Pull up a log, make yourself at home. No need for introductions. Allow me to consult the etheric frequencies for particulars.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Fields touches his head with his forefinger. Twirls his finger. <i>Like he’s tuning in a radio.</i> Then adjusts what he’s saying, depending on her reaction.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“Ah, yes. You’re traveling in disguise … as yourself. Because. You’re on a visit. Sorry, lot of static today. You’re running away.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“How’d you guess?”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“Professor Marvel never guesses — he knows! I guess. Now, why are you running away?”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Jesus H. Christ.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Yeah. Come to think of it …</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Jack actually did know this movie.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">It’s …</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">There was a humpback bridge in Jack’s hometown. And Jack wasn’t always the lump of lethargy he became in his fat 40s. No sir.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">In Jack’s hellraising days as a Gen-X teenager, he’d race up to that bridge in his 1970 Chevy Nova, then punch it. Up to 90, 95 once. He’d roar over that hump and fucking fly. Slip the bonds of earth. A moment of Zero-G. Jack’s stomach would drop. I’m gonna die, I’m gonna die. Scared shitless. But Jack never felt so alive. Paradox, huh?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>Falling. Flying. That’s how it felt then.</i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Jack felt exactly the same way now. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">This movie. It’s …</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>The Wizard of Oz. </i></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Fields was originally supposed to play the Wizard. Hell, they wrote the goddamn part for Fields. As a qualified Doctor of Fieldsology, Jack sure as shit knew that. Just like he surely knew Frank Morgan got the part. But that sure as hell wasn</span><span style="font-family: arial;">’</span><span style="font-family: arial;">t Frank Morgan. This is Fields. Big as life on TV. The movie is definitely <i>The Wizard of Oz </i>— but it’s not the same movie. They didn’t just paste Fields head on Morgan’s body. It’s not one of those deep-fake things. No. <i>Fields is ad libbing. Not even sticking to the script. </i>When Fields didn’t write the dialog, that’s what he did, if the director let him get away with it. And it’s what Fields would do in <i>The Wizard o</i>f. What he’d do if. What he’s doing.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Jack started hyperventilating. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">The scene ended before he passed out.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">They cut to commercial.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Hillary Clinton’s face filled the tube like Big Brother’s ugly mug in <i>1984</i>. Nasty, unflattering photo. Pores, wrinkles. Ominous music. Then Trump started speaking on voice-over.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“Four more years of Hillary Clinton? Uggh. Horrible woman. Horrible. I don’t think I could stand. It. America can’t either. Can you? I don’t think so. Tell Hillary Clinton, ‘You’re fired.’ Then hire me. I’ll do the job right, America. I’m Donald Trump, and I approve this message.</span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-large;">”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">From back in the bedroom, he heard Scott and Anna laughing and shouting. Then Anna’s voice cut through.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">“It worked!”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><i>Copyright 2020, Marty Fugate. All rights reserved.</i></span></p><div><br /></div>Marty Fugatehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05077693961075517845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-345052541839184472.post-5224470709864040672020-10-07T08:45:00.000-07:002020-10-10T00:09:30.300-07:00Times Up<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FSPoeXLq3pc/X4FYnK_jXfI/AAAAAAAAInQ/MoU3HFPLZU8F0TB3s8Turba1fCjbgTywACLcBGAsYHQ/s1132/DonnieDarkoRabbit.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="620" data-original-width="1132" height="406" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FSPoeXLq3pc/X4FYnK_jXfI/AAAAAAAAInQ/MoU3HFPLZU8F0TB3s8Turba1fCjbgTywACLcBGAsYHQ/w743-h406/DonnieDarkoRabbit.png" width="743" /></a></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-large;"><p>The presidential election will begin in 28 days, 06 hours, 42 minutes, and 12 seconds.</p></span><p></p>Marty Fugatehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05077693961075517845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-345052541839184472.post-68808741647959606572020-09-30T13:39:00.007-07:002020-09-30T14:12:07.765-07:00Transcript: Trump-Biden debate<p><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Transcript of the initial presidential debate between Donald Trump and Joe Biden, moderated by Chris Wallace of Fox News. </span></i></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Good evening from the Health Education Campus of Case Western Reserve University and the Cleveland Clinic. I'm Chris Wallace of Fox News and I welcome you to the first of the 2020 presidential debates between President Donald J. Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden. This debate is sponsored by the Commission on Presidential Debates. The Commission has designed the format, six roughly 15 minute segments with two minute answers from each candidate to the first question, then open discussion for the rest of each segment. Both campaigns have agreed to these rules. For the record, I decided the topics and the questions in each topic. I can assure you none of the questions has been shared with the Commission or the two candidates. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">This debate is being conducted under health and safety protocols designed by the Cleveland Clinic, which is serving as the health security advisor to the Commission for all four debates. As a precaution, both campaigns have agreed the candidates will not shake hands at the beginning of tonight's debate. The audience here in the hall has promised to remain silent. No cheers, no boos, or other interruptions so we, and more importantly you, can focus on what the candidates have to say. No noise except right now, as we welcome the Republican nominee, President Trump, and the Democratic nominee Vice President Biden.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: How you doing, man?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: How are you doing?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: I'm well.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Gentlemen, a lot of people been waiting for this night, so let's get going. Our first subject is the Supreme Court. President Trump, you nominated Amy Coney Barrett over the weekend to succeed the late Ruth Bader Ginsburg on the Court. You say the Constitution is clear about your obligation and the Senate's to consider a nominee to the Court. Vice President Biden, you say that this is an effort by the President and Republicans to jam through on an appointment in what you call an abuse of power. My first question to both of you tonight, why are you right in the argument you make and your opponent wrong? And where do you think a Justice Barrett would take the court? President Trump, in this first segment, you go first. Two minutes.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Thank you very much, Chris. I will tell you very simply. We won the election. Elections have consequences. We have the Senate, we have the White House, and we have a phenomenal nominee respected by all. Top, top academic, good in every way. Good in every way. In fact, some of her biggest endorsers are very liberal people from Notre Dame and other places. So I think she's going to be fantastic. We have plenty of time. Even if we did it after the election itself. I have a lot of time after the election, as you know. So I think that she will be outstanding. She's going to be as good as anybody that has served on that court. We really feel that. We have a professor at Notre Dame, highly respected by all, said she's the single greatest student he's ever had. He's been a professor for a long time at a great school.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">And we won the election and therefore we have the right to choose her, and very few people knowingly would say otherwise. And by the way, the Democrats, they wouldn't even think about not doing it. The only difference is they'd try and do it faster. There's no way they would give it up. They had Merrick Garland, but the problem is they didn't have the election so they were stopped. And probably that would happen in reverse, also. Definitely would happen in reverse. So we won the election and we have the right to do it, Chris.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: President Trump, thank you. Same question to you, Vice President Biden. You have two minutes.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Well, first of all, thank you for doing this and looking forward to this, Mr. President.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Thank you, Joe.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: The American people have a right to have a say in who the Supreme Court nominee is and that say occurs when they vote for United States Senators and when they vote for the President of United States. They're not going to get that chance now because we're in the middle of an election already. The election has already started. Tens of thousands of people already voted and so the thing that should happen is we should wait. We should wait and see what the outcome of this election is because that's the only way the American people get to express their view is by who they elect as President and who they elect as Vice President.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Now, what's at stake here is the President's made it clear, he wants to get rid of the Affordable Care Act. He's been running on that, he ran on that and he's been governing on that. He's in the Supreme Court right now trying to get rid of the Affordable Care Act, which will strip 20million people from having health insurance now, if it goes into court. And the justice, I'm not opposed to the justice, she seems like a very fine person. But she's written, before she went in the bench, which is her right, that she thinks that the Affordable Care Act is not Constitutional. The other thing that's on the court, and if it's struck down, what happens? Women's rights are fundamentally changed. Once again, a woman could pay more money because she has a pre-existing condition of pregnancy. They're able to charge women more for the same exact procedure a man gets.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">And that ended when we, in fact, passed the Affordable Care Act, and there's a hundred million people who have pre-existing conditions and they'll be taken away as well. Those pre-existing conditions, insurance companies are going to love this. And so it's just not appropriate to do this before this election. If he wins the election and the Senate is Republican, then he goes forward. If not, we should wait until February.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: There aren't a hundred million people with pre-existing conditions. As far as a say is concerned, the people already had their say. Okay, Justice Ginsburg said very powerfully, very strongly, at some point 10 years ago or so, she said a President and the Senate is elected for a period of time, but a President is elected for four years. We're not elected for three years. I'm not elected for three years. So we have the Senate, we have a President-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: He's elected to the next election.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: During that period of time, during that period of time, we have an opening. I'm not elected for three years. I'm elected for four years. Joe, the hundred million people is totally wrong. I don't know where you got that number. The bigger problem that you have is that you're going to extinguish 180million people with their private health care, that they're very happy with.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: That's simply not true.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Well, you're certainly going to socialist. You're going to socialist medicine-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Gentlemen, we're now into open discussion.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Open discussion.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Open discussion, yes, I agree. Go ahead, Vice President.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Number one, he knows what I proposed. What I proposed is that we expand Obamacare and we increase it. We do not wipe any. And one of the big debates we had with 23 of my colleagues trying to win the nomination that I won, were saying that Biden wanted to allow people to have private insurance still. They can. They do. They will under my proposal.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: That's not what you've said and it's not what your party is saying.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: That is simply a lie.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Your party doesn't say it. Your party wants to go socialist medicine and socialist healthcare.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: The party is me. Right now, I am the Democratic Party.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: And they're going to dominate you, Joe. You know that.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: I am the Democratic Party right now.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Not according to Harris.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: The platform of the Democratic Party is what I, in fact, approved of, what I approved of. Now, here's the deal. The deal is that it's going to wipe out pre-existing conditions. And, by the way, the 200,000 people that have died on his watch, how many of those have survived? Well, there's seven million people that contracted COVID. What does it mean for them going forward if you strike down the Affordable Care Act?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Joe, you've had 308,000 military people dying because you couldn't provide them proper healthcare in the military. So don't tell me about this.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: I'm happy to talk about this.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: And if you were here, it wouldn't be 200, it would be two million people because you were very late on the draw. You didn't want me to ban China, which was heavily infected. You didn't want me to ban Europe.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: All right, gentlemen, Mr. President.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: You would have been much later, Joe, much later.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Mr. President.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: We're talking about two million people.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: You're not going to be able to shut him up.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Mr. President, as the moderator, we are going to talk about COVID in the next segment. But go ahead.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Let me finish. The point is that the President also is opposed to Roe V. Wade. That's on the ballot as well and the court, in the court, and so that's also at stake right now. And so the election is all-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: You don't know what's on the ballot. Why is it on the ballot? Why is it on the ballot? It's not on the ballot.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: It's on the ballot in the court.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: I don't think so.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: In the court.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: There's nothing happening there.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Donald would you just be quiet for a minute.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: You don't know her view on Roe V. Wade? You don't know here view.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Well, all right. All right. Let's talk. We've got a lot to unpack here, gentlemen. We've got a lot of time. On healthcare, and then we'll come back to Roe V. Wade.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: All right.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Mr. President, the Supreme Court will hear a case a week after the election in which the Trump Administration, along with 18 state Attorney Generals are seeking to overturn Obamacare, to end Obamacare.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: That's right.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: You have spent the last week-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Because they want to give good healthcare.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: If I may ask my question, sir.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Good healthcare.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Over the last four years, you have promised to repeal and replace Obamacare, but you have never in these four years come up with a plan, a comprehensive plan, to replace Obamacare.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Yes, I have. Of course, I have. The individual mandate.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: [crosstalk] when I finish I'm going to give an opportunity-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Excuse me. I got rid of the individual mandate, which was a big chunk of Obamacare.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: That's not a comprehensive place.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: That is absolutely a big thing. That was the worst part of Obamacare.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: I didn't ask, sir.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Chris, that was the worst part of Obamacare.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: You're debating him not me. Let me ask my question.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Well, I'll ask Joe. The individual mandate was the most unpopular aspect of Obamacare.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Mr. President.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: I got rid of it. And we will protect people.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Mr. President, I'm the moderator of this debate and I would like you to let me ask my question and then you can answer.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Go ahead.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: You, in the course of these four years, have never come up with a comprehensive plan to replace Obamacare, and just this last Thursday you signed a largely symbolic Executive Order to protect people with pre-existing conditions five days before this debate. So my question, sir, is what is the Trump healthcare plan?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Well, first of all, I guess I'm debating you, not him, but that's okay. I'm not surprised. Let me just tell you something. There's nothing symbolic. I'm cutting drug prices. I'm going with Favored Nations, which no President has the courage to do because you're going against big pharma. Drug prices will be coming down 80 or 90%. You could have done it during your 47 year period in government, but you didn't do it. Nobody's done it. So we're cutting healthcare.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: What about pre-existing conditions?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: All of the things that we've done.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: He has not done healthcare.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: I'll give you an example. Insulin, it was destroying families, destroying people, the cost. I'm getting it for so cheap it's like water, you want to know the truth. So cheap. Take a look at all of the drugs that what we're doing. Prescription drug prices, we're going to allow our Governors now to go to other countries to buy drugs because when they paid just a tiny fraction of what we do.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Okay, like I say, this is open discussion.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: This is big stuff.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Sir, you'll be happy. I'm about to pick up on one of your points to ask the Vice President, which is, he points out that you would like to add a public option to Obamacare.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Yes.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: And the argument that he makes and other Republicans make is that that is going to end private insurance.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: It is not.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: If I start asking the question.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: That's not what your party says, by the way.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: And it will end private insurance and create a government takeover of health.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: It does not. It's only for those people who are so poor they qualify for Medicaid they can get that free in most States, except Governors who want to deny people who are poor Medicaid. Anyone who qualifies for Medicaid would automatically be enrolled in the public option. The vast majority of the American people would still not be in that option. Number one. Number two.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Joe, you agreed with Bernie Sanders, who's far left, on the manifesto, we call it. And that gives you socialized medicine.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Look, hey.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Are you saying you didn't agree?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: I'm not going to listen to him. The fact of the matter is I beat Bernie Sanders.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Not by much.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: I beat him by a whole hell of a lot.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Not by much.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: I'm here standing facing you, old buddy.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: If Pocahontas would have left two days early you would have lost every primary.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: All he knows how to do-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: On Super Tuesday, you got very lucky.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Look he's the deal. I got very lucky. I'm going to get very lucky tonight as well.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: With what?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: And tonight I'm going to make sure.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: With what?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Because here's the deal, here's the deal. The fact is that everything he's saying so far is simply a lie. I'm not here to call out his lies. Everybody knows he's a liar.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: But you agree. Joe, you're the liar. You graduated last in your class not first in your class.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: God, I want to make sure-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Mr. President, can you let him finish, sir?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: No, he doesn't know how to do that.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: You'd be surprised. You'd be surprised. Go ahead, Joe.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: The wrong guy, the wrong night, at the wrong time.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Listen, you agreed with Bernie Sanders and the manifesto.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: There is no manifesto, number one.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Please let him speak, Mr. President.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Number two.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: He just lost the left.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Number two.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: You just lost the left. You agreed with Bernie Sanders on a plan that you absolutely agreed to and under that plan [crosstalk], they call it socialized medicine.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Mr. President.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: I'll tell you what, he is not for any help for people needing healthcare.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Who is, Bernie?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Because he, in fact, already has costs 10 million people their healthcare that they had from their employers because of his recession. Number one. Number two, there are 20 million people getting healthcare through Obamacare now that he wants to take it away. He won't ever look you in the eye and say that's what he wants to do. Take it away.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: No, I want to give them better healthcare at a much lower price, because Obamacare is no good.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: He doesn't know how. He doesn't know how to do that.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: I've already fixed it.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: He has never offered a plan.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: We've already fixed it to an extent. Obamacare, as you might know but probably don't, Obamacare is no good.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Gentlemen, you realize if you're both speaking at the same time. Let the President. Go ahead, sir.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Obamacare is no good. We made it better and I had a choice to make very early on. We took away the individual mandate. We guaranteed pre-existing conditions, but took away the individual mandate. Listen, this is the way it is. And that destroyed … They shouldn't even call it Obamacare, then I had a choice to make, do I let my people run it really well or badly? If I run it badly, they'll probably blame him, but they'll blame me. But more importantly, I want to help people. Okay. I said, 'You've got to run it so well.' And I just had a meeting with them. They said the problem is, no matter how well you run Obamacare, it's a disaster. It's too expensive. Premiums are too high, that it doesn't work. So we do want to get rid of it. Chris, we want to get rid of that and give something that's cheaper and better.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: I understand that, sir. But I have to give you roughly equal time.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Go ahead.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Please let the Vice President talk, sir.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Good.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: He has no plan for healthcare.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Of course, we do.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Please.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: He sends out wishful thinking. He has Executive Orders that have no power. He hasn't lowered drug costs for anybody. He's been promising a healthcare plan since he got elected. He has none, like almost everything else he talks about. He does not have a plan. He doesn't have a plan. And the fact is this man doesn't know what he's talking about. [crosstalk].</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: All right, I have one final question for you.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Sure.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Mr. Vice President, if Senate Republicans, we were talking originally about the Supreme Court here, if Senate Republicans go ahead and confirm Justice Barrett there has been talk about ending the filibuster or even packing the court, adding to the nine justices there. You call this a distraction by the President. But, in fact, it wasn't brought up by the President. It was brought up by some of your Democratic colleagues in the Congress. So my question to you is, you have refused in the past to talk about it, are you willing to tell the American tonight whether or not you will support either ending the filibuster or packing the court?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Whatever position I take on that, that'll become the issue. The issue is the American people should speak. You should go out and vote. You're voting now. Vote and let your Senators know strongly how you feel.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Are you going to pack the court?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Vote now.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Are you going to pack the court?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Make sure you, in fact, let people know, your Senators.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: He doesn't want to answer the question.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: I'm not going to answer the question.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Why wouldn't you answer that question? You want to put a lot of new Supreme Court Justices. Radical left.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Will you shut up, man?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Listen, who is on your list, Joe? Who's on your list?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Gentlemen, I think we've ended this-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: This is so un-Presidential.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: He's going to pack the court. He is not going to give a list.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: We have ended the segment. We're going to move on to the second segment.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: That was really a productive segment, wasn't it? Keep yapping, man.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: The people understand, Joe.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: They sure do.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: 47 years, you've done nothing. They're understand.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: All right, the second subject is COVID-19, which is an awfully serious subject. So let's try to be serious about it. We have had more than seven million cases of coronavirus in the United States and more than 200,000 people have died. Even after we produce a vaccine, experts say that it could be months or even years before we come back to anything approaching normal. My question for both of you is, based on what you have said and done so far, and what you have said you would do starting in 2021, why should the American people trust you more than your opponent to deal with this public health crisis going forward? In this case, the question goes to you first, sir. Two minutes, uninterrupted.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Good luck. 200,000 dead. As you said, over seven million infected in the United States. We, in fact, have 4% of the world's population, 20% of the deaths. 40,000 people a day are contracting COVID. In addition to that, about between 750 and 1000 people a day are dying. When he was presented with that number, he said, 'It is what it is.' Well, it is what it is because you are who you are. That's why it is. The President has no plan. He hasn't laid out anything. He knew all the way back in February how serious this crisis was. He knew it was a deadly disease. What did he do? He's on tape as acknowledging he knew it. He said he didn't tell us or give people a warning of it because he didn't want to panic the American people. You don't panic. He panicked. In addition to that, what did he do?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: He went in and we were insisting that the people we had in the ground in China should be able to go to Wuhan and determine for themselves how dangerous this was. He did not even ask Xi to do that.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Wrong.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: He told us what a great job Xi was doing. He said we owe him debt of gratitude for being so transparent with us. And what did he do then? He then did nothing. He waited and waited and waited. He still doesn't have a plan.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Wrong.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Sir, it's his two minutes.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: It's so wrong.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: I laid out back in March, exactly what we should be doing. And I laid out again in July, what we should be doing. We should be providing all the protective gear possible. We should be providing the money the House has passed in order to be able to go out and get people the help they need to keep their businesses open. Open schools cost a lot of money. You should get out of your bunker and get out of the sand trap in your golf course and go in the Oval Office and bring together the Democrats and Republicans and fund what needs to be done now to save lives.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: So, if we would have listened to you.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Wait, wait. You have two minutes, sir.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: If we would've listened to you, the country would have been left wide open, millions of people would have died, not 200,000. And one person is too much. It's China's fault. It should have never happened. They stopped it from going in, but it was China's fault. And, by the way, when you talk about numbers, you don't know how many people died in China. You don't know how many people died in Russia. You don't know how many people died in India. They don't exactly give you a straight count, just so you understand. But if you look at what we've done, I closed it and you said, 'He's xenophobic. He's a racist and he's xenophobic,' because you didn't think I should have closed our country. Wait a minute.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Sir, it's his two minutes.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: You didn't think we should have closed our country because you thought it was terrible. You wouldn't have closed it for another two months. By my doing it early, in fact, Dr. Fauci said, 'President Trump saved thousands of lives.' Many of your Democrat Governors said, 'President Trump did a phenomenal job.' We worked with the Governor. Oh really, go take a look. The Governors said I did a phenomenal job. Most of them said that. In fact, people that would not be necessarily on my side said that, 'President Trump did a phenomenal job.' We did. We got the gowns. We got the masks. We made the ventilators. You wouldn't have made ventilators. And now we're weeks away from a vaccine. We're doing therapeutics already. Fewer people are dying when they get sick. Far fewer people are dying. We've done a great job.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: The only thing I haven't done a good job, and that's because of the fake news, no matter what you say to them, they give you a bad press on it. It's just fake news. They give you good press, they give me bad press because that's the way it is, unfortunately. But let me just say something. I don't care. I've gotten used to it. But I'll tell you, Joe, you could never have done the job that we did. You don't have it in your blood. You could've never done that, Joe.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: I know how to do the job. I know how to get the job done.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Well, you didn't do very well in Swine Flu. H1-N1, you were a disaster. Your own Chief of Staff said you were a disaster.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: 14,000 people died, not 200,000.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: A far less lethal disease, by the way.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Sir, you made a point. Let him answer it.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: And there was no one … We didn't shut down the economy. This is his economy he shut down. The reason it's shut down is because, look, you folks at home. How many of you got up this morning and had an empty chair at the kitchen table because someone died of COVID? How many of you are in a situation where you lost your mom or dad and you couldn't even speak to them, you had a nurse holding a phone up so you could in fact say goodbye?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: We would have lost far more people, far more people. You would have been months late. You're months behind me, Joe.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: His own CDC Director says we could lose as many as another 200,000 people between now and the end of the year. And he said, if we just wear a mask, we can save half those numbers. Just a mask. And by the way, in terms of the whole notion of a vaccine, we're for a vaccine, but I don't trust him at all. Nor do you. I know you don't. What we trust is a scientist.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: You don't trust Johnson & Johnson, Pfizer?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Okay, gentlemen, gentlemen. Let me move on to questions about the future because you both have touched on two of the questions I'm going to ask. Focusing on the future first, President Trump, you have repeatedly either contradicted or been at odds with some of your governments own top scientists. The week before last, the Head of the Centers for Disease Control, Dr. Redfield said it would be summer before the vaccine would become generally available to the public. You said that he was confused and mistaken. Those were your two words. But Dr. Slaoui, the head of your Operation Warp Speed, has said exactly the same thing. Are they both wrong?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Well, I've spoken to the companies and we can have it a lot sooner. It's a very political thing because people like this would rather make it political than save lives.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: God.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: It is a very political thing. I've spoken to Pfizer, I've spoken to all of the people that you have to speak to, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson, and others. They can go faster than that by a lot. It's become very political because the left… Or I don't know if I call them left, I don't know what I call them.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: So you're suggesting that the head of your Operation Warp Speed, Dr. Slaoui-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: I disagree with him. No, I disagree with both of them. And he didn't say that. He said it could be there, but it could also be much sooner. I had him in my office two days ago.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: He talked about the summer, sir, before it's generally available, just like Dr. Redfield.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Because he said it's a possibility that we'll have the answer before November 1st. It could also be after that.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: I'm talking about when it's generally available, not-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Well, we're going to deliver it right away. We have the military all set up. Logistically, they're all set up. We have our military that delivers soldiers and they can do 200,000 a day. They're going to be delivering-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: This is the same man who told you—</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: It's all set up.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: … by Easter, this would be gone away. By the warm weather, it'd be gone. Miraculous, like a miracle. And by the way, maybe you could inject some bleach in your arm, and that would take care of it. This is the same man.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: That was said sarcastically, and you know that. That was said sarcastically.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: So here's the deal. This man is talking about a vaccine. Every serious company is talking about maybe having a vaccine done by the end of the year, but the distribution of that vaccine will not occur until sometime beginning of the middle of next year to get it out, if we get the vaccine. And pray God we will. Pray God we will.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Mr. Vice President, I want to pick up—</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: You'll have the vaccine sooner than that.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: I want to pick up on this question though. You say the public can trust the scientists, but they can't trust President Trump. In fact, you said that again tonight. Your running mate, Senator Harris, goes further, saying that public health experts quote, 'Will be muzzled, will be suppressed.' Given the fact that polls already show that people are concerned about the vaccine and are reluctant to take it, are you and your running mate, Senator Harris, contributing to that fear?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: No more than the question you just asked him. You pointed out he puts pressure and disagrees with his own scientists.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: But you're saying you can't-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Everybody knows—</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Or Senator Harris is saying you can't trust the scientist.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Well, no, no. You can trust the scientist. She didn't say that. You can trust the-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: She said that public health experts quote, 'Will be muzzled, will be suppressed.'</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Yes. Well, that's what he's going to try to do, but there's thousands of scientists out there, like here at this great hospital that don't work for him. Their job doesn't depend on him. They're the people… And by the way—</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: We spoke to the scientists that are in charge-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: By the way—</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: … they will have the vaccine very soon.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Let him finish.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Do you believe for a moment what he's telling you in light of all the lies he's told you about the whole issue relating to COVID? He still hasn't even acknowledged that he knew this was happening, knew how dangerous it was going to be back in February, and he didn't even tell you. He's on record as saying it. He panicked or he just looked at the stock market. One of the two. Because guess what? A lot of people died and a lot more are going to die unless he gets a lot smarter, a lot quicker-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Mr. President?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Did you use the word smart? So you said you went to Delaware State, but you forgot the name of your college. You didn't go to Delaware State. You graduated either the lowest or almost the lowest in your class. Don't ever use the word smart with me. Don't ever use that word.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Oh, give me a break.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Because you know what? There's nothing smart about you, Joe. 47 years you've done nothing.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Well, let's have this debate—</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Let me just tell you something, Joe. If you would have had the charge of what I was put through, I had to close the greatest economy of the history of our country. And by the way, now it's being built again and it's going up fast.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: We'll get to the economy in the next segment, sir.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Okay. It's going up fast. I look forward to talking about it.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Okay. When it comes to how the virus has been handled so far, the two of you have taken very different approaches, and this is going to affect how the virus is handled going forward by whichever of you ends up becoming the next president. I want to quickly go through several of those. Reopenings. Vice President Biden, you have been much more reluctant than President Trump about reopening the economy and schools. Why, sir?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Because he doesn't have a plan. If I were running it, I'd know what the plan is. You've got to provide these businesses the ability to have the money to be able to reopen with the PPE, as well as with the sanitation they need. You have to provide them classic-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Tell that to Nancy Pelosi.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Will he just shush for a minute?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Tell that to Nancy Pelosi, and Schumer [crosstalk] Chuck.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Nancy Pelosi and Schumer, they have a plan. He won't even meet with them. The Republicans won't meet in the Senate. He sits in his golf course. Well, I mean, literally, think about it. Think about it.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: You probably play more than I do, Joe.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: What about this question of reopenings and the fact-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Well, he wants to shut down this country and I want to keep it open, and we did a great thing by shutting it down-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: You just admitted you'd shut it down.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Wait a minute, Joe. Let me shut you down for a second, Joe, just for one second. He wants to shut down the country. We just went through it. We had to, because we didn't know anything about the disease. Now we've found that elderly people with heart problems and diabetes and different problems are very, very vulnerable. We learned a lot. Young children aren't, even younger people aren't. We've learned a lot, but he wants to shut it down. More people will be hurt by continuing. If you look at Pennsylvania, if you look at certain states that have been shut down, they have Democrat governors, all, one of the reasons they shut down is because they want to keep it shut down until after the election on November 3rd.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: All right. I want to move onto another-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Because it's a political thing.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: I want to move onto another subject.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: I got to respond to that.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: I want to move-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: But those states-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Gentlemen, I want to move onto another subject.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Those states are not doing well that are shut down right now.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: I got to respond to that.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: He wants to shut down the whole country.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: President Trump, you have begun to increasingly question the effectiveness of masks as a disease preventer. And in fact, recently you have cited the issue of waiters touching their masks and touching plates. Are you questioning the efficacy of masks?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: No, I think masks are okay. You have to understand, if you look… I mean, I have a mask right here. I put a mask on when I think I need it. Tonight, as an example, everybody's had a test and you've had social distancing and all of the things that you have to, but I wear masks-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Just like your rally.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: … when needed. When needed, I wear masks.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Okay. Let me ask-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: I don't wear a mask like him. Every time you see him, he's got a mask. He could be speaking 200 feet away from him and he shows up with the biggest mask I've ever seen. I will say this-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Vice President Biden, go ahead, sir.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Look, the way to open businesses is give them the wherewithal to be able open. We provided money, the-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: But I was asking you, sir, about masks.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Well, masks make a big difference. His own head of the CDC said if we just wore masks between now, if everybody wore a mask and social distanced between now and January, we'd probably save up to 100,000 lives. It matters. It matters.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: And they've also said the opposite. They've also said-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: No serious person has said the opposite. No serious person.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Okay. I want to ask you-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Dr. Fauci. Dr. Fauci said the opposite.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: He did not say the opposite.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: I want to ask you, we've got a little than a minute left in this segment.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: He said very strongly, 'Masks are not good.' Then he changed his mind. He said, 'Masks are good.'</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: I want to ask-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: I'm okay with masks. I'm not fighting masks.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: I want to ask you both about one last subject because your different approaches has even affected the way that you have campaigned. President Trump, you're holding large rallies with crowds packed together, thousands of people.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Outside.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Outside. Yes, sir. Agreed. Vice President Biden, you are holding much smaller events with-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Because nobody will show up.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: … people with masks.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Well, it's true. Nobody shows up to his rallies.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: All right. In any case, why you holding the big rallies? Why you not? You go first, sir.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Because people want to hear what I have to say. I mean-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: But are not worried about us spreading disease?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: … I'm doing my job as a president, and I'll have 25, 35,000 people show up at airports. We use airports and hangers and we have a lot of people-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Are you not worried about the disease issues, sir?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Well, so far we have had no problem whatsoever. It's outside. That's a big difference according to the experts. We do them outside, we have tremendous crowds, as you see, and literally on 24 hours notice. And Joe does the circles and has three people someplace.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: By the way, did you see one of the last big rallies he had? A reporter came up to him to ask him a question, he said, 'No, no, no. Stand back, put on your mask, put on a mask. Have you been tested? I'm way far away from those other people.' That's what he said, 'I'm going to be okay.' He's not worried about you. He's not worried about the people out there [crosstalk].</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: We've had no negative effect.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: No negative effect. Come on.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: We've had no negative effect, and we've had 35, 40,000 people at these rallies.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: All right. Do you want to just quickly finish up? Because I want to move on to our next-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Yes, I would. He's been totally irresponsible the way in which he has handled the social distancing and people wearing masks, basically encouraged them not to. He's a fool on this.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: If you could get the crowds, you would have done the same thing. But you can't. Nobody cares.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Gentlemen, can we move on to the-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: No cares.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Gentlemen, can we move on to the economy?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Yes.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: The economy is, I think it's fair to say, recovering faster than expected from the shutdown-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Much faster.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: … in the second quarter. The unemployment rate fell to 8.4% last month. The Federal Reserve says the hit to growth, which is going to be there, is not going to be nearly as big as they had expected. President Trump, you say we are in a V-shaped recovery. Vice President Biden, you say it's more of a K-shape. What difference does that mean to the American people in terms of the economy? President Trump, in this segment you go first.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: So we built the greatest economy in history. We closed it down because of the China plague. When the plague came in, we closed it down, which was very hard psychologically to do. He didn't think we should close it down and he was wrong. Again, two million people would be dead now instead of… Still, 204,000 people is too much. One person is too much. Should have never happened from China. But what happened is we closed it down and now we're reopening and we're doing record business. We had 10.4 million people in a four month period that we've put back into the workforce. That's a record the likes of which nobody's ever seen before. And he wants to close down the… He will shut it down again. He will destroy this country.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: A lot of people, between drugs and alcohol and depression, when you start shutting it down, you take a look at what's happening at some of your Democrat-run states where they have these tough shutdowns. And I'm telling you it's because they don't want to open it. One of them came out last week, you saw that, 'Oh, we're going to open up on November 9th.' Why November 9th? Because it's after the election. They think they're hurting us by keeping them closed. They're hurting people. People know what to do. They can social distance. They can wash their hands, they can wear masks. They can do whatever they want, but they got to open these states up.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: When you look at North Carolina, when you look, and these governors are under siege, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and a couple of others, you got to open these states up. It's not fair. You're talking about almost it's like being in prison. And you look at what's going on with divorce, look at what's going on with alcoholism and drugs. It's a very, very sad thing. And he'll close down the whole country. This guy will close down the whole country and destroy our country. Our country is coming back incredibly well, setting records as it does it. We don't need somebody to come in and say, 'Let's shut it down.'</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: All right. Your two minutes, sir. We're now moved to you. As I said, posing the question, the president says it's a V-shape recovery, you say it's a K-shaped recovery. What's the difference?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: The difference is millionaires and billionaires like him in the middle of the COVID crisis have done very well. Billionaires have made another $300 billion because of his profligate tax proposal, and he only focused on the market. But you folks at home, you folks living in Scranton and Claymont and all the small towns and working class towns in America, how well are you doing? This guy paid a total of $750 in taxes.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: That's wrong.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Sir, wait. No. Sir-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: [crosstalk].</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Yeah, I understand. You've agreed to the two minutes, so please let him have it.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Do I get my time back? The fact is that he has in fact, worked on this in a way that he's going to be the first president of the United States to leave office, having fewer jobs in his administration than when he became president. Fewer jobs than when he became president. First one in American history.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Secondly, the people who have lost their jobs are those people who have been on the front lines. Those people who have been saving our lives, those people who have been out there dying. People who've been putting themselves in the way to make sure that we could all try to make it. And the idea that he is insisting that we go forward and open when you have almost half the states in America with a significant increase in COVID deaths and COVID cases in the United States of America, and he wants to open it up more. Why is he want to open it up? Why does he take care of the… You can't fix the economy until you fix the COVID crisis. And he has no intention of doing anything about making it better for you all at home in terms of your health and your safety.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Schools. Why aren't schools open? Because it costs a lot of money to open them safely. They were going to give, his administration going to give the teachers and school students masks, and then they decided no, couldn't do that because it's not a national emergency. Not a national emergency. They've done nothing to help small businesses. Nothing. They're closing. One in six is now gone. He ought to get on the job and take care of the needs of the American people so we can open safely.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: All right. Your time is up, sir. We are going to get to-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: I have to respond to that.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Well, you both had two minutes, sir.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Excuse me, he made a statement.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: And so did you.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: No, people want their schools open. They don't want to be shut down. They don't want their state shut down. They want their restaurants. I look at New York. It's so sad what's happening in New York. It's almost like a ghost town, and I'm not sure it can ever recover what they've done to New York. People want their places open. They want to get back to their lives.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: People want to be safe.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: They'll be careful, but they want their schools open.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: People want to be safe.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: I'm the one that brought back football. By the way, I brought back Big Ten football. It was me and I'm very happy to do it-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: All right. Let's-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: … and people of Ohio are very proud of me. And you know how I found out? When [crosstalk].</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Gentlemen, we're going to get to your economic plans going forward in a moment, but first, Mr. President, as you well know, there's a new report that in 2016, the year you were elected president, and 2017, your first year as president, that you paid $750 a year in federal income tax each of those years. I know that you pay a lot of other taxes, but I'm asking you this specific question. Is it true that you paid $750 in federal income taxes each of those two years?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: I paid millions of dollars in taxes, millions of dollars of income tax. And let me just tell you, there was a story in one of the papers that paid-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Show us your tax returns.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: I paid $38 million one year, I paid $27 million one year.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Show us your tax returns.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: You'll see it as soon as it's finished, you'll see it. You know, if you wanted to, go to the Board of Elections. There's 118 page or so report that says everything I have, every bank I have, I'm totally under leveraged because the assets are extremely good, and I built a great company.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Sir, I'm asking you a specific question, which is-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: But let me tell you-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: I understand all of that.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Release your tax return.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: I understand all of that-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Let me-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: No, Mr. President, I'm asking you a question. Will you tell us how much you paid in federal income taxes in 2016 and 2017?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Millions of dollars.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: You paid millions of dollars in-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Millions of dollars, yes.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: So not 750?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Millions of dollars. And you'll get to see it. And you'll get to see it.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: When?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: But let me just tell you-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: In [crosstalk]?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Chris, let me just say something, that it was the tax laws. I don't want to pay tax. Before I came here, I was a private developer, I was a private business people. Like every other private person, unless they're stupid, they go through the laws, and that's what it is. He passed a tax bill that gave us all these privileges for depreciation and for tax credits. We build the building and we get tax credits, like the hotel on Pennsylvania Avenue. Which by the way, was given to me by the Obama administration, if you can believe that. Now the man got fired right after that happened, but that's-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Vice President Biden, you want to respond?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Yeah, I do want to respond. Look, the tax code that put him in a position that he pays less tax than on the money a school teacher makes is because of him… He says he's smart because he can take advantage of the tax code. And he does take advantage of the tax code. That's why I'm going to eliminate the Trump tax cuts. And I'm going to eliminate those tax cuts.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: That's okay.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: And make sure that we invest in the people who in fact need the help. People out there need help.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: But why didn't you do it over the last 25 years?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Because you weren't president-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Why didn't you do it over the last 25 years?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Because you weren't president and screwing things up.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: You were a Senator and [crosstalk]-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: You're the worst president America has ever had. Come on.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Hey, Joe, let me just tell you, Joe. In 47 months, I've done more than you've done in 47 years, Joe. We've done things that you never even thought of doing.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Okay. Gentlemen?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Including fixing the broken military that you gave me, including taking care of your debts.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Mr. President, we're talking about the economy. I'd like to ask you about your plans going forward because Mr. Vice President, your economic plan-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: He has none.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: … if you were to be elected president focuses a lot on big government, big taxes, big spending. I want to focus first on the taxes. You propose more than $4 trillion over a decade in new taxes on individuals making more than $400,000 a year.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: … on individuals making more than $400,000 a year and on corporations. President Trump says that that kind of an increase in taxes is going to hurt the economy as it's just coming out of a recession.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Well, just take a look at what is the analysis done by Wall Street firms, points out that my economic plan would create 7 million more jobs than his in four years, number one. And number two, it would create an additional $1 trillion in economic growth, because it would be about buying American. The federal government spends $600 billion a year on everything from ships, to steel, to buildings and the like. And under my proposal, we're going to make sure that every penny of that has to be made by a company-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: But respectfully, sir, I'm talking about taxes, not spending.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: By the way, I'm going to eliminate a significant number of the taxes. I'm going to make the corporate tax 28%. It shouldn't be 21%. You have 91 companies federal, I mean, the fortune 500, who don't pay a single penny in tax making billions of dollars.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Why didn't you do it before, when you were vice president with Obama?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Because you in fact passed that, that was your tax proposal.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: I got it done. And you know what happened?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Yeah, you got it done-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Our economy boomed like it's never boomed before.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: The economy-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Mr. President-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Let me finish.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Mr. President, let me pick up on that. You would continue your free market approach, lower taxes, more deregulation, correct?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Not lower tax for the American people.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: But let me-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Excuse me.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: You talk about the economy booming. It turns out that in Obama's final three years as president more jobs were created, a million and a half more jobs, than in the first three years of your presidency.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: They had the slowest economic recovery since 1929. It was the slowest recovery. Also, they took over something that was down here. All you had to do is turn on the lights and you pick up a lot. But they had the slowest economic recovery since 1929, and let me tell you about the stock market. When the stock market goes up, that means jobs. It also means 401ks. If you got in, if you ever became president with your ideas, you want to terminate my taxes. I'll tell you what, you'll lose. Half of the companies that have poured in here will leave. And plenty of companies that are already here, they'll leave for other places. [crosstalk] They will leave and you will have a depression, the likes of which you've never seen.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Look-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Mr. Vice President.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">JOE BIDEN: … we inherited the worst recession, short of a depression in American history. I was asked to bring it back. We were able to have an economic recovery that created the jobs you're talking about. We handed him a booming economy, he blew it.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: It wasn't blooming.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: He blew it.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: He was in booming. It was the weakest recovery since 1929.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Wait, wait, is it fair to say he blew it when, in fact-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: When COVID came along.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: … when there was record low unemployment before COVID.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Yeah, because what he did, even before COVID, manufacturing went in the hole. Manufacturing went in a hole-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Excuse me, Chris, wait.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: … number one. Number two-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Chris.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Number three.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: They said it would take… No, you're on number two.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: No.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Chris, Chris. They said it would take-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: This guy-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: … a miracle to bring back manufacturing. I brought back 700,000 jobs. They brought back nothing. They gave up on manufacturing.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: We did not. [crosstalk]</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: … standard fare.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: I'm the guy that brought back the automobile industry.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: He totally gave up on manufacturing.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: All right, let him-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: I was asked to bring back Chrysler and General Motors. He brought them back right here in the state of Ohio and Michigan. He blew it. They're gone. He blew it. And in fact, they're gone-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Ohio had the best year it's ever had last year. Michigan had the best year they've ever had.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: That is not true.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Many car companies came in from Germany, from Japan, went to Michigan, went to Ohio and they didn't come in with you. [crosstalk].</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Mr. Vice President, go ahead.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: And so you take a look at what he's actually done. He's done very little. His trade deals are the same way. He talks about these great trade deals. He talks about the art of the deal. China's perfected the art of the steel. We have a higher deficit with China now than we did before. We have the highest trade deficit-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: China ate your lunch- [crosstalk].</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: … with Mexico.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: China ate your lunch, Joe. And no wonder your son goes in and he takes out billions of dollars. He takes out billions of dollars to manage. He makes millions of dollars. And also, while we're at it, why is it just out of curiosity, the mayor of Moscow's wife gave you a son three and a half million dollars?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: That is not true.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: What did he do to deserve it? What did he do with-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: None of that is true.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: … to deserve $183,000?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Sir, you've asked him a question, let him answer it.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: None of that is true.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Oh really, he didn't get three and a half million?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Mr. President-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Is totally-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Mr. President, please. You've asked a question- [crosstalk]</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Totally discredited. Totally discredited. And by the way-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Well wait, he didn't get three and a half million dollars, Joe?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Mr. Vice-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: He got three and a half million-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Mr. President.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: … dollars.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: That is not true.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Oh, really?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Mr. President, it's an open discussion. Please- [crosstalk]</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: It's a fact.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: It is not a fact.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Well, you have raised an issue, let the Vice President answer.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: It's been totally discredited.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Did Burisma pay him 183,000 a month, with no experience in energy?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Mr. President-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: My son did nothing wrong at Barisma-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: I think he did.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Mr. President, let him answer. [crosstalk].</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: He doesn't want to let me answer, because he knows I have the truth. His position has been totally thoroughly discredited-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: By who?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: And you can-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: The media.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: by everybody. Well, by the media, by our allies.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: By the media, because they refuse to talk about it-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: By the World Bank-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: … because they're embarrassed.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: By everyone, has discredited. And matter of fact [crosstalk] Matter of fact-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Mr. President, please stop.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Even the people who testified under oath-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">DONALD TRUMP: So let me ask you this, Joe- [crosstalk].</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Go ahead, I'm listening to you.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Even the people under-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: He got three and a half million dollars from Moscow.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: … testified under oath in his administration said I did my job and I did it very well.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Oh, really?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: I did it honorably.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: I'd like to know who they are.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Well, I'll give you the list of the people who-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: I'll fire them.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: No, no. Go ahead, sir.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: I'm sure that you've already fired most of them, because they did a good job.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Some people don't do a good job.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Well, here's the- [crosstalk]</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Go ahead. You get the- [crosstalk] Wait a minute. You get the final word, Mr.-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Well, it's hard to get any word in with this clown. Excuse me, this person.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Hey, let me just tell you, Joe-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: No, no. Mr. President- [crosstalk]</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Three and a half million, Joe.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: That is simply not true.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Why did he deserve three and a half million from Moscow?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Look, here's the deal. We want to talk about families and ethics. I don't want to do that. I mean, his family, we could talk about all night. His family's already-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: My family-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: No, no- [crosstalk].</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: My family lost a fortune by coming down and helping us with governance.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: And that's such a- [crosstalk]</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Mr. President-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Every single one of them lost a fortune-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: This is not about my family or his family. It's about your family, the American people. [crosstalk] That's not true. It doesn't want to talk about what you need. You, the American people, it's about you. That's what we're talking about here. [crosstalk]</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: That's the end of the segment. We're moving on.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: He didn't take that.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Vice President-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Chris, can I be honest? It's a very important question-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Try to be honest.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: No.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: He stood up-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: The answer to the question is no.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: … and the threatened Ukraine-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Sir-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: … with a billion dollars-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: That is absolutely not true.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Stop. [crosstalk] Gentlemen, I hate to raise my voice, but I- [crosstalk] Why should I be different than the two of you? So here's the deal.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: That's a good point.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: We have six segments. We have ended that segment. We're going to go to the next segment. In that segment, you each are going to have two uninterrupted moments. In those two interrupted minutes, Mr. President, you can say anything you want. I'm going to ask a question about race, but if you want to answer about something else, go ahead. But I think that the country would be better served, if we allowed both people to speak with fewer interruptions. I'm appealing to you, sir, to do that.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Well, and him too.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Well, frankly, you've been doing more interrupting than he has.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Well, that's all right, but he does plenty.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Well, sir, less than-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: He does plenty.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: No, less than you have. Let's please continue on. The issue of rice. Vice-President Biden, you say that President Trump's response to the violence in Charlottesville three years ago, when he talked about very fine people on both sides, was what directly led you to launch this run for president.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Oh yeah, sure.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: President Trump, you have often said that you believe you will have done more for Black Americans than any president with the possible exception of Abraham Lincoln.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: That's true.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: My question for the two of you, is why should voters trust you rather than your opponent to deal with the race issues facing this country over the next four years? Vice President Biden, you go first.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: It's about equity and equality. It's about decency. It's about the constitution. And we have never walked away from trying to require equity for everyone, equality for the whole of America. But we've never accomplished it, but we've never walked away from it like he has done. It is true, the reason I got in the race is when those people… Close your eyes, remember what those people look like coming out of the fields, carrying torches, their veins bulging, just spewing anti-Semitic bile and accompanied by the Ku Klux Klan. A young woman got killed and they asked the president what he thought. He said, 'There were very fine people on both sides.' No president's ever said anything like that. [crosstalk].</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: It is his-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Now-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: … minute sir.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: … second point I'd make to you, is that when Floyd was killed, when Mr. Floyd was killed, there was a peaceful protest in front of the White House. What did he do? He came out of his bunker, had the military use tear gas on them so he could walk across to a church and hold up a Bible. And then what happened after that? The Bishop of that very church said that it was a disgrace. The general who was with him said all he ever wants to do is divide people, not unite people at all. This is a president who has used everything as a dog whistle, to try to generate racists hatred, racist division.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">JOE BIDEN: This is a man who, in fact, you talk about helping African-Americans, one in 1000 African Americans has been killed because of the coronavirus. And if he doesn't do something quickly, by the end of the year, one in 500 will have been killed. One in 500 African Americans. This man is as a savior of African-Americans? This man cares at all? This man's done virtually nothing. Look, the fact is that you have to look at what he talks about. You have to look at what he did. And what he did has been disastrous for the African-American community.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: So-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: President Trump, you have two minutes. Why should Americans trust you over your opponent to deal race issues?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: You did a crime bill, 1994, where you call them super predators. African-Americans are super predators and they've never forgotten it. They've never forgotten it.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: I've never said-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: No, no, sir. It's his two minutes.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: So you did that and they call you a super predator and I'm letting people out of jail now, that you have treated the African-American population community, you have treated the black community about as bad as anybody in this country. You did the 1990… And that's why, if you look at the polls, I'm doing better than any Republican has done in a long time, because they saw what you did. You call them super predators, and you've called them worse than that. Because you look back at your testimony over the years, you've called them a lot worse than that. As far as the church is concerned and as far as the generals are concerned, we just got the support of 250 military leaders and generals, total support. Law enforcement, almost every law enforcement group in the United States. I have Florida. I have Texas. I have Ohio. I have every… Excuse me, Portland, the sheriff just came out today and he said, 'I support President Trump.'</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: I don't think you have any law enforcement. You can't even say the word law enforcement. Because if you say those words, you're going to lose all of your radical left supporters. And why aren't you saying those words, Joe? Why don't you say the words law enforcement? Because you know what? If called us in Portland, we would put out that fire in a half an hour. But they won't do it, because they're run by radical left Democrats. If you look at Chicago, if you look at any place you want to look, Seattle, they heard we were coming in the following day and they put up their hands and we got back Seattle. Minneapolis, we got it back, Joe, because we believe in law and order, but you don't. The top 10 cities and just about the top 40 cities are run by Democrats, and in many cases radical left. And they've got you wrapped around their finger, Joe, to a point where you don't want to say anything about law and order. And I'll tell you what, the people of this country want and demand law and order and you're afraid to even say it.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: All right. I want to return to the question of race. Vice President Biden, after the grand jury in the Breonna Taylor case decided not to charge any of the police with homicide, you said it raises the question, 'Whether justice could be equally applied in America.' Do you believe that there is a separate but unequal system of justice for Blacks in this country?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Yes, there is. There's systemic injustice in this country, in education and work and in law enforcement and the way in which it's enforced. But look, the vast majority of police officers are good, decent, honorable men and women. They risk their lives every day to take care of us, but there are some bad apples. And when they occur, when they find them, they have to be sorted out. They have to be held accountable. They have to be held accountable. And what I'm going to do as President of the United States is call together an entire group of people at the White House, everything from the civil rights groups, to the police officers, to the police chiefs, and we're going to work this out.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: We're going to work this out. So we changed the way in which we have more transparency, in when these things happen. These cops aren't happy to see what happened to George Floyd. These cops aren't happy to see what happened to Breonna Taylor. Most don't like it, but we have to have a system where people are held accountable when… And by the way, violence in response is never appropriate, never appropriate. Peaceful protest is, violence is never appropriate.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: All right, Mr.-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: What is peaceful protest? When they run through the middle of the town-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: President Trump-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: … and burn down your stores and kill people all over the place- [crosstalk].</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: That is not peaceful protest.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: No it's not, but you say it is.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: President Trump, I'd like to continue with the issue of race. I promise we're going to get to the issue of law and order in a moment.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Fine.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: This month, your administration directed federal agencies to end racial sensitivity training that addresses white privilege or critical race theory. Why did you decide to do that, to end racial sensitivity training? And do you believe that there is systemic racism in this country, sir?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: I ended it because it's racist. I ended it because a lot of people were complaining that they were asked to do things that were absolutely insane. That it a radical revolution that was taking place in our military, in our schools, all over the place. And you know it, and so does everybody else. And he would know it- [crosstalk]</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: What is radical about racial sensitivity training?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: If you were a certain person, you had no status in life. It was sort of a reversal. And if you look at the people, we were paying people hundreds of thousands of dollars to teach very bad ideas and frankly, very sick ideas. And really, they were teaching people to hate our country And I'm not going to do that. I'm not going to allow that to happen. We have to go back to the core values of this country. They were teaching people that our country is a horrible place. It's a racist place. And they were teaching people to hate our country. And I'm not going to allow that to happen.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Vice President Biden.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Nobody's doing that. He's the racist.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: You just don't know.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Here's the deal. I know a lot more about this- [crosstalk].</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Let him finish.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: The fact is that there is racial insensitivity. People have to be made aware of what other people feel like, what insults them, what is demeaning to them. It's important people know. Many people don't want to hurt other people's feelings, but it makes a big difference. It makes a gigantic difference in the way a child is able to grow up and have a sense of self-esteem. It's a little bit like how this guy and his friends look down on so many people. They look down their nose on people like Irish Catholics, like me, who grow up in Scranton. They look down on people who don't have money. They look down on people who are of a different faith. They looked down on people who are a different color. In fact, we're all Americans. The only way we're going to bring this country together is bring everybody together. There's nothing we cannot do, if we do it together. We can take this on and we can defeat racism in American.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Vice President… I mean, President Trump, sir.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: During the Obama-Biden administration, there was tremendous division. There was hatred. You look at Ferguson, you look at, or you go to very… Many places, look at Oakland. Look what happened in Oakland. Look what happened in Baltimore. Look what happened… Frankly, it was more violent than what I'm even seeing now.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Oh my Lord.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: But the reason-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: This is ridiculous.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: … is that the Democrats that run these cities-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Absolutely ridiculous.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: … don't want to talk, like you, about law and order.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Violent crime-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: And you still haven't mentioned. Are you in favor of law and order?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: I'm in favor of law. You- [crosstalk].</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Are you in favor of law and order? [crosstalk]</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: You asked a question, let him finish. [crosstalk] Let him answer.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Law and order with justice, where people get treated fairly.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Okay.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: And the fact of the matter is, violent crime went down 17%, 15% in our administration. It's gone up on his watch.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: It went down much more in ours.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: All right, we're done- [crosstalk] Mr. President, you're going to be very happy because we're now going to talk about law and order.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: The places we had trouble were Democratic run cities-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: That's exactly my question. There has been a dramatic increase in homicides in America this summer particularly, and you often blame that on Democratic mayors and Democratic governors. But in fact, there have been equivalent spikes in Republican led cities, like Tulsa and Fort Worth. So the question is, is this really a…</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: It's like Tulsa and Fort worth. So the question is, is this really a party issue?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: I think as a party issue, you can bring in a couple of examples but if you look at Chicago, what's going on in Chicago where a 53 people were shot and eight died shot, if you look at New York where it's going up, like nobody's ever seen anything. The numbers are going up a 100%, 150%, 200% crime, it is crazy what's going on and he doesn't want to say law and order because he can't because he'll lose his radical left supporters and once he does that, it's over with. But if he ever got to run this country and they ran it the way he would want to run it, we would have by the way our suburbs would be gone. And you would see problems like you've never seen before.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: He wouldn't know a suburb unless you took a wrong turn.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Oh, I know suburbs so much that you.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Gentlemen wait a minute.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: I was raised in the suburbs. This is not 1950. All these dog whistles and racism don't work anymore. Suburbs are by and large integrated. There's many people today driving their kids to soccer practice and/or black and white and Hispanic in the same car as there have been any time in the past, what really is a threat to the suburbs and their safety is his failure to deal with COVID. They're dying in the suburbs. His failure to deal with the environment, they're being flooded, they're being burned out because his refusal to do anything. That's why the suburbs are in trouble.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: I do want to talk about this issue of law and order though. And in the joint recommendation that came from the Biden-Bernie Sanders task force, you talked about quote re-imagining policing. First of all, what does re-imagining policing mean and do you support? If I might finish the question, what does re-imagining policing mean and do you support the Black Lives Matter call for community control of policing?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Look, what I support are the police having the opportunity to deal with the problems they face and I'm totally opposed to defunding the police offices. As a matter of fact police, local police, the only one defunding in his budget calls for a $400 million cut in local law enforcement assistance. They need more assistance. They need when they show up for a 9-11 call to have someone with them as a psychologist or psychiatrist to keep them from having to use force and be able to talk people down. We have to have community policing like we had before where the officers get to know the people in the communities. That's when crime went down, it didn't go up. It went down. And so we have to be…</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: That's not what they are talking about this. That's not what it is about. He's talking about defunding the police.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: That is not true.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: He doesn't have any law support. He has no law enforcement.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: That's not true.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: He has almost nothing. Oh, really, who do you have name one group that supports you name one group that came out and supported you. Go ahead. Think we have time.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: We don't have time to do anything.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: No, no think right now. Name one law enforcement group that came out in support of you.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Now, gentleman. I think I'm going to tell I'm going to take back the bottom line.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: There aren't any.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: And I want to get to another subject, which is the issue of protests in many cities that have turned violent in Portland, Oregon, especially we had more than a 100 straight days of protests, which I think you would agree, you talk about peaceful protests. Many of those turned into riots. Mr. Vice-president you say that people who commit crimes should be held accountable. The question I have though is as the Democratic nominee, and earlier tonight, you said that you are the Democratic Party right now, have you ever called the Democratic Mayor of Portland or the Democratic Governor of Oregon and said, 'Hey, you got to stop this, bring in the National Guard, do whatever it takes, but you'd stop the days and months of violence in Portland.'</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: I don't hold public office. Now I am a former vice president. I've made it clear. I've made it clear in my public statements that the violence should be prosecuted. It should be prosecuted and anyone who committed it should be prosecuted.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: But you've never called for the people…</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: He's never done that.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Excuse me, sir. You had never called for the leaders in Portland and in Oregon to call and bring in the National Guard and knock off a 100 days of riots.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: They can in fact take care of it if he just stay out of the way.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Oh really? I sent in the US Marshalls to get the killer of a young man in the middle of the street and they shot him for three days Portland didn't do anything. I sent in the US Marshals they took care of business.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Go ahead sir.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: And by the way his own former spokesperson said, 'Riots and chaos and violence help he cause.' That's what this is all about.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: I don't know who said that.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: I do.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Who?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: I think Kellyanne Conway.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: I don't think she said that.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: She said that.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: I don't think so.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Here's the point, the point is that that's why he keeps trying to rile everything up. He doesn't want to calm things down instead of going in and talking to people and saying, 'Let's get everybody together. Figure out how to deal with this.' What's he do? He just pours gasoline in the fire constantly and every single solitary time.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Okay. And to end this, button up this segment I'm going to give you a minute to answer, sir. You have repeatedly criticized…</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Does it mean I have to answer his stuff.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: You have repeatedly…</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Wait a second, you have made a statement</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: You've been talking back and forth. I'm asking you.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: I would love to end it.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: You know sir if you want to switch seats we could very quickly can do that.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: I'll send in the National Guard, it would be over. That'd be no problem. But I don't want to accept the National Guard.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: You have repeatedly criticized the vice president for not specifically calling out Antifa and other left wing extremist groups. But are you willing tonight to condemn white supremacists and militia group and to say that they need to stand down and not add to the violence in a number of these cities as we saw in Kenosha and as we've seen in Portland.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">DONALD TRUMP: Sure, I'm willing to do that.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Are you prepared specifically to do it.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: I would say almost everything I see is from the left wing not from the right wing.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: But what are you saying?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: I'm willing to do anything. I want to see peace.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Well, do it, sir.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">JOE BIDEN: Say it, do it say it.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: What do you want to call them? Give me a name, give me a name, go ahead who do you want me to condemn.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: White supremacist and white militia.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Okay, boys stand back and stand by. But I'll tell you what somebody's got to do something about Antifa and the left because this is not a right wing problem this is a left wing.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: He's own FBI Director said unlike white supremacist, Antifa is an idea not an organization-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Oh you got to be kidding me.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: … not a militia. That's what his FBI Director said.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Well, then you know what, he's wrong.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: We're done, sir. Moving onto the next… [crosstalk]</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Antifa is bad.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Every body in your administration tells you the true, it's a bad idea. You have no idea about anything.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: You know what, Antifa is a dangerous radical group.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: All right, gentlemen we're now moving onto the Trump-Biden record.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">DONALD TRUMP: And you ought to be careful of them, they'll overthrow you.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: I'm going to ask a question. When the president seeks a second term, it is generally a referendum on his record but vice president Biden, you'd like to quote one of your dad's sayings, which is don't compare me to the almighty, compare me to the alternative. And in this case sir you are the alternative. Looking at both of your records, I'm going to ask each of you. Why should voters elect you president over your opponent in this segment, President Trump you'll go first, two minutes.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Because there is never been an administration or president who has done more than I've done in a period of three and a half years. And that's despite the impeachment hoax and you so what happened today with Hillary Clinton, where it was a whole big con job. But despite going through all of these things where I had a fight, both flanks and behind me and above there has never been an administration that's done what I've done. The greatest, before COVID came in the greatest economy in history, lowest unemployment numbers, everything was good. Everything was going.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: And by the way, there was unity going to happen. People were calling me for the first time in years, they were calling and they were saying it's time maybe and then what happened? We got hit. But now we're building it back up again. A rebuilding of the military, including Space Force and all of the other things. A fixing of the VA which was a mess under him, 308,000 people died because they didn't have proper health care. It was a mess. And we now got a 91% approval rating at the VA, our vets. We take care of our vets. But we've rebuilt our military. And I'll tell you something, some people say maybe the most important by the end of the first term I'll have approximately 300 Federal judges and Court of Appeals judges, 300 and hopefully three great Supreme Court judges, justices that is a record the likes of which very few people and one of the reasons I'll have so many judges because President Obama and him left me 128 judges to fill.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: When you leave office, you don't leave any judges. That's like, you just don't do that. They left 128 openings and if I were a member of his party, because they have a little different philosophy, I'd say, if you left us 128 openings you can't be a good president. You can't be a good vice president but I want to thank you because it gives us almost, it'll probably be above that number. By the end of this term, 300 judges. It's a record.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Looking at both of your records. Why should voters elect you President as opposed to president Trump, you have two minutes uninterrupted.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Under this president, we become weaker, sicker, poor, more divided and more violent. When I was vice president, we inherited a recession. I was asked to fix it. I did. We left him a booming economy and he caused the recession. With regard to being weaker, the fact is that I've gone head to head with Putin and made it clear to him we're not going to take any of his stuff. He's Putin's puppy. He still refuses to even say anything to Putin about the bounty on the heads of American soldiers.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: You son got three and a half million dollars.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">JOE BIDEN: By the way, my son…</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Wait a minute. Mr. President, your campaign agreed to both sides would get two minute answers, uninterrupted. Well, you're a side agreed to it and why don't you observe what your campaign agreed to as a ground rule. Okay, sir?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: He never keeps his word.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: No, that was a rhetorical question.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Can you get back 30 seconds?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Yes. You may have, go ahead.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: So thirdly, we're poor. The billionaires have gotten much more wealthy by a tune of over $3- $400 billion more just since COVID. You in the home, you got less you're in more trouble than you were before. In terms of being more violent. When we were in office there were 15% less violence in America than there is today. He's President United States. It's on his watch. And with regard to more divided the nation, it can't stay divided. We can't be this way. And speaking of my son, the way you talk about the military, the way you talk about them being losers and being and just being suckers. My son was in Iraq. He spent a year there. He got the Brown Star. He got the Conspicuous Service Medal. He was not a loser. He was a Patriot and the people left behind there were heroes.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Really?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: And I resent-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Are you talking Hunter, are you talking about Hunter.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: I'm talking about my son, Beau Biden, you're talking about Hunter?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: I don't know Beau. I know Hunter. Hunter got thrown out of the military. He was thrown out dishonorably discharged.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: That's not true he was not dishonorably discharged.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: For cocaine use. And he didn't have a job until you became vice president.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: None of that is true.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Once you became vice president he made a fortune in Ukraine, in China, in Moscow and various other places.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">JOE BIDEN: That is not true.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: He made a fortune and he didn't have a job.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: My son like a lot of people at home had a drug problem. He's overtaking it. He's fixed it. He's worked on it. And I'm proud of him, I'm proud of my son.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: But why was he given tens of millions of dollars?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: He wasn't given tens of millions of dollars. [crosstalk] It was all discredited.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">CHRIS WALLACE: We've already been through this. I think the American people would rather hear about more substantial subjects. Well, as the moderator, sir, I'm going to make a judgment call here.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: I know but when somebody gets three and a half million dollars from the Mayor of Moscow.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: That is not true. That report is totally discredited.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Why did he get it?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Mitt Romney on that committee said it wasn't worth taxpayer's money. That report was written for political reason.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: I'd like to talk about climate change.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: So would I.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Okay. The forest fires in the West are raging now. They have burned millions of acres. They have displaced hundreds of thousands of people. When state officials there blamed the fires on climate change. Mr. President, you said, I don't think the science knows. Over your four years, you have pulled the US out of the Paris Climate Accord. You have rolled back a number of Obama Environmental records, what do you believe about the science of climate change and what will you do in the next four years to confront it?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: I want crystal clean water and air. I want beautiful clean air. We have now the lowest carbon… If you look at our numbers right now, we are doing phenomenally. But I haven't destroyed our businesses. Our businesses aren't put out of commission. If you look at the Paris Accord, it was a disaster from our standpoint. And people are actually very happy about what's going on because our businesses are doing well. As far as the fires are concerned, you need forest management. In addition to everything else, the forest floors are loaded up with trees, dead trees that are years old and they're like tinder and leaves and everything else. You drop a cigarette in there the whole forest burns down. You've got to have forest management.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: What do you believe about the science of climate change, sir?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: I believe that we have to do everything we can to have immaculate air immaculate water and do whatever else we can that's good. We're planting a billion trees, the Billion Tree Project and it's very exciting for a lot of people.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: You believe that human pollution, gas, greenhouse gas emissions contributes to the global warming of this planet.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: I think a lot of things do, but I think to an extent, yes. I think to an extent, yes, but I also think we have to do better management of our forest. Every year I get the call. California's burning, California's burning. If that was cleaned, if that were, if you had forest management, good forest management, you wouldn't be getting those calls. In Europe, they live they're forest cities. They call forest cities. They maintain their forest. They manage their forest. I was with the head of a major country, it's a forest city. He said, 'Sir, we have trees that are far more, they ignite much easier than California. There shouldn't be that problem.' I spoke with the Governor about it. I'm getting along very well with the governor. But I said, 'At some point you can't every year have hundreds of thousands of acres of land just burned to the ground.' That's burning down because of a lack of management.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: But sir if you believe in the science of climate change, why have you rolled back the Obama Clean Power Plan which limited carbon emissions and power plants? Why have you relaxed…?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Because it was driving energy prices through the sky.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Why have you relaxed fuel economy standards that are going to create more pollution from cars and trucks?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Well, not really because what's happening is the car is much less expensive and it's a much safer car and you talk it about a tiny difference. And then what would happen because of the cost of the car you would have at least double and triple the number of cars purchased. We have the old slugs out there that are 10, 12 years old. If you did that, the car would be safer. It would be much cheaper by $3,500.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: But in the case of California they have simply ignored that.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: No, but you would take a lot of cars off the market because people would be able to afford a car. Now, by the way, we're going to see how that turns out. But a lot of people agree with me, many people. The car has gotten so expensive because they have computers all over the place for an extra little bit of gasoline. And I'm okay with electric cars too. I think I'm all for electric cars. I've given big incentives for electric cars but what they've done in California is just crazy.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: All right, Vice president Biden. I'd like you to respond to the president's climate change record but I also want to ask you about a concern. You propose $2 trillion in green jobs. You talk about new limits, not abolishing, but new limits on fracking. Ending the use of fossil fuels to generate electricity by 2035 and zero none admission of greenhouse gases by 2050. The president says a lot of these things would tank the economy and cost millions of jobs.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: He's absolutely wrong, number one. Number two, if in fact, during our administration in the recovery act, I was in charge able to bring down the cost of renewable energy to cheaper than are as cheap as coal and gas and oil. Nobody's going to build another coal fired plant in America. No one's going to build another oil fire plant in America. They're going to move to renewable energy. Number one, number two, we're going to make sure that we are able to take the federal fleet and turn it into a fleet that's run on their electric vehicles. Making sure that we can do that, we're going to put 500,000 charging stations in all of the highways that we're going to be building in the future. We're going to build a economy that in fact is going to provide for the ability of us to take 4 million buildings and make sure that they in fact are weatherized in a way that in fact will they'll emit significantly less gas and oil because the heat will not be going out. There's so many things that we can do…</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Gas and oil because the heat will not be going out. There's so many things that we can do now to create thousands and thousands of jobs. We can get to net zero, in terms of energy production, by 2035. Not only not costing people jobs, creating jobs, creating millions of good-paying jobs. Not 15 bucks an hour, but prevailing wage, by having a new infrastructure that in fact, is green. And the first thing I will do, I will rejoin the Paris Accord. I will join the Paris Accord because with us out of it, look what's happening. It's all falling apart. And talk about someone who has no relationship with foreign policy. The rainforests of Brazil are being torn down, are being ripped down. More carbon is absorbed in that rainforest than every bit of carbon that's emitted in the United States. Instead of doing something about that, I would be gathering up and making sure we had the countries of the world coming up with $20 billion, and say, 'Here's $20 billion. Stop tearing down the forest. And If you don't, then you're going to have significant economic consequences.'</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: What about the argument that President Trump basically says, that you have to balance environmental interests and economic interests? And he's drawn his line.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Well, he hasn't drawn a line. He wants to make sure that methane's not a problem. You can now emit more methane without it being a problem. Methane. This is a guy who says that you don't have to have mileage standards for automobiles that exist now. This is the guy who says that, the fact that-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Not true. Not true-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: It's all true. And here's the deal-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: He's talking about the Green New Deal. And it's not 2 billion [crosstalk] or 20 billion, as you said [crosstalk]. It's $100 trillion.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: I'm talking about the Biden plan [crosstalk]-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Let him go for a minute, and then you can go.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">DONALD TRUMP: And rebuild the building.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: No.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: It's the dumbest-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: That is not-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: … most ridiculous [crosstalk] where two car systems are out-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Not true-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: … where they want to take out the cows too.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Not true.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: That's not true either, right?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Not true.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: This is a 100 trillion-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Simply… Look-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: That's more money than our country could make in 100 years [crosstalk]-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: That is simply not the case-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: All right. Let me [crosstalk]. Wait a minute, sir. I actually have studied your plan, and it includes upgrading 4 million buildings, weatherizing 2 million homes over four years, building one and a half million energy efficient homes. So the question becomes, the president is saying, I think some people who support the president would say, that sounds like it's going to cost a lot of money and hurt the economy.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: What it's going to do, it's going to create thousands and millions of jobs. Good paying jobs [crosstalk].</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Let him finish, sir.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: He doesn't know how to do that-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: 100 million dollars.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: The fact is, it's going to create millions of good paying jobs, and these tax incentives for people to weatherize, which he wants to get rid of. It's going to make the economy much safer. Look how much we're paying now to deal with the hurricanes, deal with… By the way, he has an answer for hurricanes. He said, maybe we should drop a nuclear weapon on them, and they may-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: I never said that at all-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Yeah, he did say that-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: They made it up.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: And here's the deal-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: You make up a lot-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: … we're going to be in a position where we can create hard, hard, good jobs by making sure the environment is clean, and we all are in better shape. We spend billions of dollars now, billions of dollars, on floods, hurricanes, rising seas. We're in real trouble. Look what's happened just in the Midwest with these storms that come through and wipe out entire sections and counties in Iowa. They didn't happen before. They're because of global warming. We make up 15% of the world's problem. But the rest of the world, we've got to get them to come along. That's why we have to get back into the Paris Accord.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: All right, gentlemen-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Wait a minute, Chris. So why didn't he do it for 47 years? You were vice president-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">JOE BIDEN: For 47-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: So why didn't you get the world… China sends up real dirt into the air. Russia does. India does. They all do. We're supposed to be good. And by the way, he made a couple of statements. The Green New Deal is a hundred trillion dollars.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: That is not my plan [crosstalk]. The Green New Deal [crosstalk] is not my plan. [crosstalk]</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Gentlemen-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: He made a statement about the military. He said I said something about the military. He and his friends made it up, and then they went with it. I never said it.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Okay. [crosstalk] Mr. Vice President-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: He called the military stupid bastards.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: I did not say that-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: He said it on tape. [crosstalk]-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Please, sir. [crosstalk] Stop.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: I would never say that [crosstalk]-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Play it. Play it-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Stop. Go ahead-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: You're on tape-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Mr. Vice President answered his final question.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: The final question is, I can't remember which of all his rantings [crosstalk].</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: I'm having a little trouble myself, but…</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Yeah.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: And about the economy and about this question of what it's going to cost.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: The economy-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: The Green New Deal and the idea of what your environmental changes will do-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: The Green New Deal will pay for itself as we move forward. We're not going to build plants that, in fact, are great polluting plants-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: So, do you support the Green New Deal?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Pardon me?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Do you support the-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: No, I don't support the Green New Deal.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Oh, you don't? Oh, well, that's a big statement.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: I support [crosstalk]-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: You just lost the radical left</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: I support [crosstalk] the Biden plan that I put forward.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Okay.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: The Biden plan, which is different than what he calls the radical Green New Deal.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: All right, gentlemen, final segment, election integrity. As we meet tonight, millions of Americans are receiving mail-in ballots or going to vote early. How confident should we be that this will be a fair election, and what are you prepared to do over the next five plus weeks? Because it will not only be to election day, but also counting some mail-in ballots after election day. What are you prepared to do to reassure the American people that the next president will be the legitimate winner of this election. In this final segment, Mr. Vice President, you go first.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Prepare to let people vote. They should go to iwillvote.com, decide how they're going to vote, when they're going to vote, and what means by which they're going to vote. His own Homeland Security director, and as well as the FBI director, says that there is no evidence at all that mail-in ballots are a source of being manipulated and cheating. They said that. The fact is that there are going to be millions of people because of COVID that are going to be voting by mail-in ballots like he does, by the way. He sits behind the Resolute Desk and sends his ballot to Florida, number one. Number two, we're going to make sure that those people who want to vote in person are able to vote because there are enough poll watchers are there to make sure they can socially distance. The polls are open on time, and the polls stay open until the votes are counted. And this is all about trying to dissuade people from voting because he's trying to scare people into thinking that it's not going to be legitimate.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Show up and vote. You will determine the outcome of this election. Vote, vote, vote. If you're able to vote early in your state, vote early. If you're able to vote in person, vote in person. Vote whatever way is the best way for you, because you will… He cannot stop you from being able to determine the outcome of this election. And in terms of whether or not… When the votes are counted and they're all counted, that will be accepted. If I win, that will be accepted. If I lose, that'll be accepted. But by the way, if in fact he says, he's not sure what he's going to accept. Well, let me tell you something, it doesn't matter, because if we get the votes, it's going to be all over. He's going to go. He can't stay in power. It won't happen. It won't happen, so vote. Just make sure you understand, you have it in your control to determine what this country is going to look like the next four years. Is it going to change, or are you going to get four more years of these lies?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Mr. President, two minutes.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: So when I listen to Joe talking about a transition, there has been no transition from when I won. I won that election. And if you look at crooked Hillary Clinton, if you look at all of the different people, there was no transition, because they came after me trying to do a coup. They came after me spying on my campaign. They started from the day I won, and even before I won. From the day I came down the escalator with our first lady, they were a disaster. They were a disgrace to our country, and we've caught them. We've caught them all. We've got it all on tape. We've caught them all. And by the way, you gave the idea for the Logan Act against General Flynn. You better take a look at that, because we caught you in a sense, and President Obama was sitting in the office.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: He knew about it too. So don't tell me about a free transition. As far as the ballots are concerned, it's a disaster. A solicited ballot, okay, solicited, is okay. You're soliciting. You're asking. They send it back. You send it back. I did that. If you have an unsolicited… They're sending millions of ballots all over the country. There's fraud. They found them in creeks. They found some, just happened to have the name Trump just the other day in a wastepaper basket. They're being sent all over the place. They sent two in a Democrat area. They sent out a thousand ballots. Everybody got two ballots. This is going to be a fraud like you've never seen. The other thing, it's nice. On November 3rd, you're watching, and you see who won the election. And I think we're going to do well because people are really happy with the job we've done.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: But you know what? We won't know. We might not know for months because these ballots are going to be all over. Take a look at what happened in Manhattan. Take a look at what happened in New Jersey. Take a look at what happened in Virginia and other places. They're not losing 2%, 1%, which by the way is too much. An election could be won or lost with that. They're losing 30 and 40%. It's a fraud, and it's a shame. And can you imagine where they say, 'You have to have your ballot in by November 10th.' November 10th. That's seven days after the election, in theory, should have been announced. We have major states [crosstalk] with that-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Sir.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: … all run by Democrats-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Two minutes is two minutes.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: All run by Democrats.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: President Trump-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: It's a rigged election.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: You're going to be able to continue. You have been charging for months that mail-in balloting is going to be a disaster. You say it's rigged [crosstalk], that it's going to lead to fraud. But in 2018, in the last midterm election, 31 million people voted mail-in voting. That was more than a quarter of all the voters that year, cast their ballots by mail. Now that millions of mail-in ballots have gone out, what are you going to do about it? And are you counting on the Supreme Court, including a Justice Barrett, to settle any dispute?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Yeah. I think I'm counting on them to look at the ballots, definitely. I hope we don't need them, in terms of the election itself. But for the ballots, I think so, because what's happening is incredible. I read today where at least 1% of the ballots for 2016 were invalidated. They take them. We don't like them. We don't like them. They throw them out-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: But what are you going to do about it-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: … left and right.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: There are millions of ballots going out right now. What are you going to do-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: What you do is you go and vote. You do a solicited ballot, and that's okay-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: No. No. I know your complaint [crosstalk]. I'm asking you about the fact that millions of people have received-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: You go and vote. You go and vote-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: No. But what I'm saying is [crosstalk], what are you going to do about the fact that millions of people-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: You either do, Chris, a solicited ballot, where you're sending it in, they're sending it back and you're sending. They have mailmen with lots of it. Did you see what's going on? Take a look at West Virginia, mailman selling the ballots. They're being sold. They're being dumped in rivers. This is a horrible thing for our country.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: There is no [crosstalk]… There is no evidence of that-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: This is not going to end well.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: There is no evidence of that-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: This is not going to end well-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Okay. Vice President Biden, in fact, go ahead, sir-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Five states have had mail-in ballots for the last decade or more. Five, including two Republican states. And you don't have to solicit the ballot. It's sent to you. It's sent to your home. What they're saying is that it has to be a postmark by election day. If it doesn't get in until the seventh, eighth, ninth, it still should be counted. He's just afraid of counting the votes-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: You're wrong. You're wrong [crosstalk]. I love counting the votes [crosstalk]-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: I want to continue with you on this [crosstalk] Vice President Biden-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Chris, he's so wrong when he makes a statement like that-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: No. Excuse me. Vice President Biden, the biggest problem, in fact, over the years with mail-in voting has not been fraud, historically. It has been that sizable numbers, sometimes hundreds of thousands of ballots are thrown out because they have not been properly filled out, or there is some other irregularity, or they missed [crosstalk] the deadline. So the question I have is, are you concerned that the Supreme Court with a Justice Barrett will settle any dispute?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: I am concerned that any court would settle this, because here's the deal. When you get a ballot and you fill it out, you're supposed to have an affidavit. If you didn't know, you have someone say that, this is me. You should be able to, if in fact you can verify that's you before the ballot is thrown out, that's sufficient to be able to count the ballot because someone made a mistake and not dotting the correct I. Who they voted for, testify, say who they voted for, say it's you. That is totally legitimate.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: All right.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Excuse me [crosstalk]-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: No. No. No. I have a final [crosstalk]. Gentlemen, I have a final question [crosstalk]-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: You know it can't be done. You know it can't, and already, there's been fraud [crosstalk]-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Mail service delivers [crosstalk] 185 million pieces of mail a day [crosstalk]-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: We can keep talking. In eight states, [crosstalk] election workers are prohibited, currently by law, eight states, from even beginning to process ballots, even take them out of the envelopes and flatten them until election day. That means that it's likely, because there's going to be a huge increase in mail-in balloting, that we are not going to know on election night who the winner is, that it could be days. It could be weeks-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: Could be months-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: … until we find out who the new president is. First for you, sir. Finally, for the vice president, and I hope neither of you will interrupt the other. Will you urge your supporters to stay calm during this extended period, not to engage in any civil unrest? And will you pledge tonight that you will not declare victory until the election has been independently certified? President Trump, you go first-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: I'm urging my supporters to go in to the polls and watch very carefully, because that's what has to happen. I am urging them to do it. As you know, today there was a big problem. In Philadelphia, they went in to watch. They're called poll watchers, a very safe, very nice thing. They were thrown out. They weren't allowed to watch. You know why? Because bad things happen in Philadelphia. Bad things. And I am urging my people. I hope it's going to be a fair election. If it's a fair election-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: You're urging them what?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: … I am 100% on board. But if I see tens of thousands of ballots being manipulated, I can't go along with that. And I'll tell you why-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: What does that mean, not go along-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: … from a common sense-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Does that mean you're going to tell your people-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: I'll tell you what it means-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: … to take to the streets?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: It means you have a fraudulent election. You're sending out 80 million ballots-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: And what would you do about that?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: They're not equipped… These people aren't equipped to handle it, number one. Number two, they cheat. They cheat. Hey, they found ballots in a wastepaper basket three days ago, and they all had the name military ballots. There were military. They all had the name Trump on them.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Vice President Biden-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: You think that's good?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Vice President Biden, final question for you. Will you urge your supporters to stay calm while the vote is counted? And will you pledge not to declare victory until the election is independently certified?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: Yes. And here's the deal. We count the ballots, as you pointed out. Some of these ballots in some states can't even be opened until election day. And if there's thousands of ballots, it's going to take time to do it. And by the way, our military… They've been voting by ballots since the end of the Civil War, in effect. And that's what's going to happen. Why is it, for them, somehow not fraudulent. It's the same process. It's honest. No one has established at all that there is fraud related to mail-in ballots, that somehow it's a fraudulent process.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: It's already been established. Take a look at Carolyn Maloney's race-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: I asked you. You had an opportunity to respond [crosstalk]. Go ahead [crosstalk]. Vice President Biden, go ahead.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">JOE BIDEN: He has no idea what he's talking about. Here's the deal. The fact is, I will accept it, and he will too. You know why? Because once the winner is declared after all the ballots are counted, all the votes are counted, that'll be the end of it. That'll be the end of it. And if it's me, in fact, fine. If it's not me, I'll support the outcome. And I'll be a president, not just for the Democrats. I'll be a president for Democrats and Republicans. And this guy-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: I want to see an honest ballot cut-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: Gentlemen, just say that's the end of it [crosstalk]. This is the end of this debate-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: I want to see an honest ballot count.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: We're going to leave it there—</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">DONALD TRUMP: And I think he does too-</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">CHRIS WALLACE: … to be continued in more debates as we go on. President Trump, Vice President Biden, it's been an interesting hour and a half. I want to thank you both for participating in the first of three debates that you have agreed to engage in. We want to thank Case Western Reserve University and the Cleveland Clinic for hosting this event. The next debate, sponsored by the Commission on Presidential Debates, will be one week from tomorrow, October 7th, at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City. The two vice presidential nominees, Vice President Mike Pence and Senator Kamala Harris will debate at 9:00 PM Eastern that night. We hope you watch. Until then, thank you, and good night. Thank you. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><br /></p>Marty Fugatehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05077693961075517845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-345052541839184472.post-36447615207690695492020-09-11T09:25:00.002-07:002020-09-11T09:25:19.976-07:00testMarty Fugatehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05077693961075517845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-345052541839184472.post-32363581842330839172020-07-05T19:17:00.002-07:002020-07-17T08:12:27.756-07:00The Prisoner: The Dance of the Dead<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">SUBSLIKESCRIPT</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Movies</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">TV Shows</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Home Tv shows The Prisoner s1e7 - Dance of the Dead - script</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Search</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">THE PRISONER (1967–1968): SEASON 1, EPISODE 7 - DANCE OF THE DEAD - FULL TRANSCRIPT</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Number Six comes across a body that has washed ashore with a radio. After sending the body back out to sea, he tries to use the radio to get rescued. A former colleague finds him, but the man is resigned to his own destruction. Later, Number Six calls his ex-colleague to be his character witness during a mock trial conducted by the villagers, who are in the middle of a carnival and wearing various costumes. The man comes out in a jester's outfit; but Number Two, dressed as Peter Pan, will have the last evil laugh.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Nightmare. Phone call.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Dutton: </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The Committee want a breakdown</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">on all we know — </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">you, me, Arthur,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">the colonel, everybody.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Suspected security leak, apparently.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">All the files you've seen,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">the projects you know about.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Just headings, not details.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">This phone is scrambled,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">and I've got a recorder.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">You can tell me now.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">You...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">You must not... ask me... that...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It's the Committee that's asking.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Who's that?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Who... Who is that?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">WHO IS THAT?!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It's Dutton. Hello, are you there?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It's Dutton. Hello, are you there?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Stop! You'll damage the brain...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Stop. Get him back to the hospital.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Number Six was about to talk.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">He'd have died first.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">You can't force this man.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">He's different.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I can make him talk.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Every man has his breaking point.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I don't want him broken -</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">he must be WON over.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It may seem a long process,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">but this man has a future with us.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">There are other ways...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">(Light orchestral music)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">(PA) Good morning! It's another</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">lovely day, so rise and shine!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Life's for living!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- How did I sleep?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Sound as a bell. Have a nice day.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Feel free...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Yes.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Splendid!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">He'll be no trouble.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Give him time.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Tomorrow night - we're preparing</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">for it now.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I wish you could come.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Good morning!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- What, time travel as well?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">A woman always likes</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">to wear a new dress.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">How do I look?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Different from the others.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The maids come and they go.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- We'll get along.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- I'm sure you get on with everybody.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- I should report you.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- I'm new here.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Special delivery.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Sign your number here, Number Six.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">(Brass band plays)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I see you've made a friend.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">You've got your invitation</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">to the carnival tomorrow.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Each year, there's a fancy dress,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">and a ball in the evening.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">We're promised a cabaret this year.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">You'll come?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- I have a choice?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- You do as you want.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- If it's what you want.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- If it is what the majority wants.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">We're democratic... In some ways.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Good morning, my dears.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Always play to win -</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">not very English, I know...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Are you - English?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Find a young lady for carnival -</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">you're too independent.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- They're pretty and unattached.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- What about her?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Quite unsuitable.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I'm independent, don't forget.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Don't go.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- I must.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">There's a reason.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Reason?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Number Two wants you to go.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Or does she?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Am I playing her game, or yours?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Not mine.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Don't mind me. Go if you like.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">How long have you been here?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Questions are a burden,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">answers a prison.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Why were you brought here?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Questions are a burden...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- ...and answers a prison.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I must go.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">(Elastic twang)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Are you all right?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">You tried to go in! By mistake?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It's fussy about who it lets in -</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">this is the Town Hall.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- He tried to follow you.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- It's hardly my fault.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Funny, your being his observer.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Remember, keep a sharp watch.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">(Cat meows)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">You've turned up again,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">have you, hmm?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">(Woman) Have a good walk?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Where did you find it?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It found me.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">You're not allowed animals -</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">it's a rule.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Rules to which I am not subject.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- I'll take it with me.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- You might get scratched...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Where does it come from?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">How does it get here?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The milk? The ice cream?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The potatoes and the aspirins!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">At night, when everyone's asleep?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I've never seen a night.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I just sleep.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">(Crackle of electricity)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Supposing I don't want flowers?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Everybody has flowers for carnival.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Be seeing you!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Drink it while it's hot.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It's good for you.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Good for someone.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Be seeing you.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">And you.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- You're late.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- There's a lot to do.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Are you going in?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- To make my report.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- About me and Number Six?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- No.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">We'll simply put that down</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">to enthusiasm.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Oh, could you get me a directive</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">about Dutton? He's being difficult.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">(PA) Sleep...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Sleep...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">That's it.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Sleep softly until tomorrow.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lovely, gentle sleep.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">And a lovely tomorrow.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">(Phone bleeps)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Has he? Don't worry,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">it'll test our efficiency.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">He'll eventually go back to his room.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It's the only place he can ever go.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">(Radio hisses)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">(Cries out)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">A proclamation!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">All citizens take note that</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">carnival is decreed for tonight.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Turn back the clock!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">There will be music, dancing,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">happiness. All at the carnival.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">By order.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">(Cheering)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">(Brass band plays carnival music)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- You didn't sleep here last night.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Where's the fancy costume?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">They've given me a new dress -</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">something special tonight.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- And the cat?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Gone. I didn't make it.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Everyone's, er... having</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">a good time outside.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Wait until tonight!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- We're allowed out late?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Anyone'd think you</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">were locked in!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Oh, your costume came.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Yes... Don't I get a choice?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Other people choose - it's a game!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- I expected something exotic.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- What is it?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">My own suit - specially delivered</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">for the occasion.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- What does that mean?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- That I'm still... myself.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lucky you!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- What shall we do with him?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Don't be so eager, Doctor.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Your techniques can be harmful.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Number Six will be of great value.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- He can't do as he likes!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">He's an individual,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">and they're always trying.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">His observer will ring me as soon as</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">he puts a bomb in your hospital.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Oh, how's progress with Dutton?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">He's given me information,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">but he won't go any further.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I'll have to be more... extreme.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I'll win in the end - I always do.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Rather a small fish, you know.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">But it's a chance to experiment.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">After all, HE is expendable.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">(Indistinct radio message)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">(Radio) Nowhere has more</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">beauty than here.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Tonight, the whole world</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">will turn to silver.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Do you understand?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It is important that you do.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I have a message for you - listen.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The appointment cannot be made -</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">other things must be done tonight.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">If our torment is to end,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">if liberty is to be restored,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">we must grasp the nettle,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">even though it makes our hand bleed.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Only through pain</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">can tomorrow be assured.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">You were right,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I'm too old for these stairs.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Where did you get it?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Does it work?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">That practice dictation</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">was at sixty words a minute.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">(Radio off)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Hardly useful.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The view's lovely from here.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- I thought you were beginning to...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Give in?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Be happy. All you want is here.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- It's elsewhere.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Don't force me to take steps.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">We indulge anyone - for a time...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- I know, I've seen the hospital.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- You've seen only a fraction.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- And her?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- One of our best observers.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- We have one each?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Only our more fractious children.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Shall we go down?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Suit yourself.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- You're not thinking of jumping?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Never.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Good.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- I have my duty.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- To whom?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">To everyone. It's the rules.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Of the people, for the people.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- It takes on a new meaning.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">"You're wicked."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Wicked?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- You have no values.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Different values.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- You won't be helped.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Destroyed.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- You want to spoil things.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- I won't be a goldfish in a bowl.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I must go.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- I may see you later?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Can you avoid it?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- I hope it's all right, the radio.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- What would you do?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Ask for instructions.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Number One?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- NO! ! !</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Tell me.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It's all I know.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">That's all there is to know.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- In the place where you work?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Don't keep asking me questions!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">To whoever may find this...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Number Two,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I can't find Number Six.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- (Two) That's no way to report.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- I've tried.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Don't worry, he'll turn up.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It's only a matter of time.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">He's very undisciplined.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Shall I watch Number 34 instead?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- No, he's dead.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Dead? When?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- It's none of our business.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- I got to know him quite well.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- He didn't know you.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">You.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">You of all people.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I'd never have believed it.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Roland... Walter... Dutton.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Who was he?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">His body was washed up</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">on the shore.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">How long have you been here?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- You don't know?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Would I ask?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It's difficult to say.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">A couple of months...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- And you?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Quite recently.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">How is London?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- About the same.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Yes.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Places don't change.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Only people.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Some people.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- I want to talk about it, anyway.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Let's go inside.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I told them.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- What?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Everything I know.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">They don't believe me.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">You know I never had </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">access to the vital stuff.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Yes.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">At the hospital, when they see I'm</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">telling the truth, it'll be too late.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">When?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">They've released me for 72 hours.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So that I can "reconsider in the</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">peaceful atmosphere of The Village".</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- There's still hope.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- No, my friend. Not for me.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Such noble thoughts are long dead.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Soon, Roland Walter Dutton</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">will cease to exist.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">You're waiting for someone,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mr Tuxedo?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Or expecting someone?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Mr Peter Pan?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- So it seems.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- With his shadow.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">You're being hostile again.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">What were you looking at?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- A light.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- A star?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- A boat.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- An insect.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- A plane.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- A flying fish.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Somebody who belongs to my world.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">This is your world.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I am your world.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">If you live a dream,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">you may be taken for mad.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- I like my dream.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Then you are mad.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Now go to the Town Hall.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- May I(?)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">You may enter tonight -</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">it's carnival.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">What, no dancing?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Tonight's for dancing!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Amongst other things...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">(Quiet chatter)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Music! Come along,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">you've practised long enough.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Dance, be happy - it's carnival!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- I rarely drink.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Enjoy it.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Self-denial's a great sweetener</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">of pleasure.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Warmer than we think.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Undoctored.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- To carnival.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Your rules allow no opposition.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">An irritation we've dispensed with.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Democracy's so inefficient.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">This a '53?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Yes. Then we degenerate</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">to the '55 and the '57,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">and if people really misbehave,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">to an extraordinary '58.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Why haven't I a costume?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Perhaps you don't exist.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Quite enchanting!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Little Bo-Peep.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Who knows where to find her sheep.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cheer him up - it's a special night.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">We hope so. Dance.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Wine, Doctor?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Drink is too levelling. How is he?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Rebellious, but it will pass.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Without treatment?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- We don't want to spoil him.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Unless we must.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">This is my first carnival...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">and last.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Don't be silly!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Who said that, you or the computer?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Me!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Don't stop, dance!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Don't behave like a human being(!)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">You are confused, but not for long.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">There are treatments.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I'm terribly sorry.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">She, er, she must get instructions.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Who do they come from?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Is he here tonight?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">There's no need to know -</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">this place has been here for years.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Since the war? Before the war?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">WHICH WAR?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">A long time.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">(Music stops)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">(Applause)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Have you seen Number Two?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- She's not at the party?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- I'll be seeing her.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">She must see this termination order.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I'll give it to her?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I'm obliged.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Don't forget, it's urgent.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Oh, right away.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">(Doors whirr)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">You make the most of your chances -</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">we do the same.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Ah, she's taken to you - I'm jealous.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Oh, she's mine. She works here, too.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">She's very efficient.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Almost ruthless.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Never trust a woman -</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">even the four-legged variety.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">You can trust everyone.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">And will, in time.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Let's go back - the cabaret's on.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- In his pocket...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The wallet? Still there.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Amended slightly -</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">we'll amend him slightly.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It's you who's died</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">in an accident at sea.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- So, to the outside world...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Which you only dream about.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I'll be dead.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">A small confirmation of a known fact.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Don't blame me -</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">it's simply "waste not, want not".</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- I thought there was a cabaret.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- There is... YOU are it.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">In the matter of the people</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">versus this person,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">the court is now in session.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- What is my crime?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">We'll come to that.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I should explain</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">our legal system is unusual.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- No jury.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Three judges decide.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- As in the French Revolution...?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- They got through the deadwood.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I'm appointed to defend you,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">this lady to prosecute.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The judges have been chosen.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">(Number Two) Proceed.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">You are charged</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">with having on your person</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">and using unlawfully, against</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">the interest of the community,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">an object, the possession</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">and use of which breaks our rules.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">A radio set!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Don't you ask how I plead?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Proceed, prosecutor.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">From somewhere -</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">he has not yet been interrogated -</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">the accused acquired a radio.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- How do you know he had it?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- I am his observer.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">She's biased,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">and shouldn't be here.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I saw him with it in his room</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">and on a bell tower.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Did anyone else see it?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- The... defender was with me.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I saw him with it in his room.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Thank you, Your Majesty.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Proceed!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- He was listening to a programme.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- (Doctor) What programme?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I don't know - one shouldn't listen.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Quite right.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Did you listen, madam?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">How can she be</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">a prosecution witness?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">No, my lord, but it did work.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It is our duty to care for others</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">and to see that rules are obeyed.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Without them,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">we should have anarchy.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Hear, hear.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- You do yourself no good, prisoner.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">There's no radio</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">he could have borrowed -</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">so he made a positive effort</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">against the community.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">A malicious breaking of the rules.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The court's duty... is to pass</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">the severest possible sentence.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">You wish to question the prosecutor?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">We shall hear the defender.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I would beg the court to remember,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">beneath its panoply of splendour,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">the awful majesty of the rules,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">beat human hearts.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">This is a human being,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">with weaknesses</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">and failings of his kind.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">That he had a radio and</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">has broken rules cannot be denied.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Has anyone ever seen these rules?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I plead your lordships for clemency.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">He is guilty of folly, no more.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">We can treat folly with kindness,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">then his wild spirit will quieten,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">and he will become a model citizen.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">That day you will never see.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">You will be silent -</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">this is a serious matter.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Very serious.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Both officers have presented their</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">pleas with creditable simplicity.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">We will now consider.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- I want to call a witness.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">- Witness?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">We are the only possible witnesses.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">He has his rights.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">What manner of witness?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">A character witness.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I want the court to call</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Roland Walter Dutton!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">No names are used here.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">He's a man I think I knew -</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">a man who is scheduled to die,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">and therefore better fitted than I</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">to say what needs to be said.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">A character witness?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">(Number Two) The court</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">will resume its deliberations.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It is decided.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">We find the prisoner guilty</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">of breach of the rules,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">which his folly and inexperience</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">cannot excuse.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">We pass sentence</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">in accordance with the rules.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">No, stop it!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It's the rules, my dear.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The sentence... is death.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">We sentence on behalf of the people.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The people carry it out.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">(Screaming)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">(Man) Over there!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It's a one-way mirror.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">They can't see you.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">They never have seen in here,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">and never will.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">They lack your initiative.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Deal with them.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Why are they doing this?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">They don't know you're dead,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">locked up in the long box</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">in that little room.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">She's no longer your observer -</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">we have no place for observers of life.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">You'll never win.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Then how very uncomfortable</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">for you, old chap.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">(Laughs)</span><br />
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Marty Fugatehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05077693961075517845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-345052541839184472.post-18802628761779873762020-07-02T15:11:00.003-07:002020-07-06T07:37:15.394-07:00The Prisoner • Escape Literature<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zK6OABKOGNs/XwM2wL2SkGI/AAAAAAAAIe0/HjxRcVO8L_cT7hIEdbpLytPnqsGlWJHYwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/MassiveLibrary.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1062" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zK6OABKOGNs/XwM2wL2SkGI/AAAAAAAAIe0/HjxRcVO8L_cT7hIEdbpLytPnqsGlWJHYwCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/MassiveLibrary.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">When he finally does emerge, he goes to the Village Library. The place is cavernous, stuffed with books. Smells of mildew and neglect. One reader, who appears to be sleeping. The Librarian is sleeping too. No signs on the wall promising "Escape to a world of reading!" No hint of joy at all.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">He studies the card catalog, walks the stacks. No Orwell, no Koestler, no Huxley, no Zamyatin. Apparently no books from the 20th-century at all, subversive or not. A scattering from the 19th century, with dirty words and calls for rebellion carefully blacked out. Some dangerous titles are missing entirely. No <i>Tale of Two Cities</i>. No <i>Huckleberry Finn</i>. (As he recalls, a tale about two boys who ran away from home due to a moral objection to slavery.) They may be careful. But They're not perfect. Miraculously, They somehow missed "<i>The Man in the Iron Mask</i>" and the "<i>Count of Monte Cristo</i>." So he keeps looking ...</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Then he realizes a short-haired woman is looking at him. She stands, legs akimbo, hands on her hips. The woman is not in costume. But she instantly reminds him of Peter Pan. According to the badge on her tunic, she's the new Number Two.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"What are you looking for?"</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"Escape literature."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"That's amusing, Number Six. You're quite the wit. Any story in particular?"</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"I'll know it when I see it."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"Author's name? Title?"</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"I don't recall."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"What happens in the story?"</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"I wouldn't dream of giving it away."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"Where was it set?"</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"Planet Earth, I think."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"You mean France, don't you? The author was French."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">As she says this, her fingers grab the copy of <i>The Count of Monte Cristo </i>he was trying not to look at. She holds onto it.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"I think I know what you're looking for," she says.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"Really?"</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"Really. </span><span style="font-size: large;">It's a very famous story."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"You've read it?"</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"I have."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"What happens then?"</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"Well .... Sometime in the 18th century. France, of course. A man is being held prisoner in a dank cell. The gallows await him the next day. In desperation, he tunnels out, swims a moat, tunnels in again, climbs this, does this, does that, flees barking dogs and angry soldiers, hides, twists, turns, enters a dead-end passageway, then starts tunneling again. As he digs, he's thinking he's found freedom and — voila! — he's back in his jail cell. His sneering jailer appears and says, 'You did what we expected you to do. Now here is what you did not expect.' The jailer pushes the iron bars of the prisoner's cell open with one hand. 'You see, monsieur? Your cell was unlocked all the time! Hahaha! Now let us keep the appointment with the hangman!'" That's the story, isn't it?"</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"It is."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"It's a lovely story. And I can see why you relate to it. You're very predictable."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"Am I?"</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"Completely! It's the story of your life, Number Six. Or your death, depending on how you look at it. It's what's been happening to you. Eight escape attempts so far. Six engineered by us, two by you. But they all ended the same. You tunneled right back into your cell, didn't you?"</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"Literary criticism is not your forte."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"Oh, but it is. And I can tell you how your story ends. We know all of your tricks, but you don't know ours. Most of the Villagers now hate you. You will find no allies. You will find no escape. Aside from death. Or sincere submission."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"Same thing, isn't it?"</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"For you, I'm sure it is. Would you like to know the author's name? The story's title?"</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"You know I would."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"Yes I do. See you at the Carnival. Perhaps I'll tell you."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">She gives him that odious salute.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"Be seeing you."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">And leaves him alone in a room full of dead stories he no longer feels like reading.</span><br />
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<br />Marty Fugatehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05077693961075517845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-345052541839184472.post-37823134737232621152020-06-30T22:03:00.003-07:002020-07-01T19:21:31.525-07:00Protest vote<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Nov 4, 2020</b>. Sam, the noble social justice warrior, entered the voting booth. It was time to make a decision. Several, actually. Killing old people because they take up space … no. Fracking ban … yes. Referendum to not not defund the Everglades Restoration Plan. Uh … yes? So, like yes, no, yes, yes, no whatever. Checking all these boxes is a pain in the ass! But they did it.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">And now it’s like the big choice. Who’s going to be President? Donald Trump and Mike Pence. Ugggh. Old white male fascists, gross, gross, no? Duh! But … Joe Biden and Kamala Harris. Old white male; young whatever-she-is female. Sam liked Kamala. But they didn’t like Joe Biden. He was old and reminded Sam of their creepy uncle. And who said they had to choose between two parties anyway? Donkey or Elephant? Paper or plastic? Uh-uh. No way. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">After much consideration and pencil chewing, Sam bravely voted for Jack Cluckster, the Chicken Party candidate. Yeah, of course he’s going to lose! They knew that, duh! It’s a protest vote, OK?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Later, in the reeducation camps, Billie came to regret their decision.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">They never voted again.</span><br />
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Marty Fugatehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05077693961075517845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-345052541839184472.post-51556070377811913702020-06-07T10:42:00.002-07:002020-06-07T15:41:19.488-07:00Drive by Review Space Force<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Space force is a good show, intelligent, well written, well acted and well thought out. Well, well, well. But? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">But they’ve made a few compromises. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">To please the Office fanbase, they don't stray to far from the office template. Steve Carrell gets a familiar playground for his typical shtick. Officer X fits the rough outline of Michael Scott, with a few difference. He's a well-meaning boob with a good heart, basically. But the show's creators know damn well an incompetent dumbass would rise to four star general, even if it's a token position. X isn't a wimp who folds under the first sign of pressure. A former pilot of the F series, and that takes a bit of the right stuff. He isn't an idiot, either. HE helps his daughter </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">with her Trigonometry homework.</span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">But if he's too brave and competent, CArewll could do his thing. </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">His macho is a way of sneaking hoin hilarious mitakes. But he’s not an idiot. But he let’s his macho code do the blustering thing. It’s a bit of a cheat, but it works.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> to please the Office fanbase stick to the office formula, and give Steve CArreell a familiar playground for his typical shtuck. Specifically character incoisnstenciues.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Ofciver X tifts the rough outline of Michael Scott, with a few differences. He’s a well meaning boob with a good heart, basically. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The show’s creators wqise3ly thought, we can’t make him a completed dumass or he would rise tio the position he did evwenb if it’s a token position either. He’s also not a wimp who folds iunder the first sign of pressure. He’s a military man, a former piloty of the F series, and that takes a bit of the right stuff.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Carrell sells the character with a subtle imitation of Georce C. Scott’s Patton. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">They also sell the idea of his 2020 gut instinct and keen intuition. HE doesn’t scrub a launch under lousy weather conditions because he see a chinese scientist has brought an umbrella where theerwe’s a barely a cloud in the skyu. He’s not a fraid of risks. These scientist are reisk averse, too careful. He goes with his gut and laucnehs the rocket and it doesn’t blow up you expect it to blow up, but it doesn’t.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The definance of expectations. But that kind of thinking led to the Challenger disaster,and that pisses me off. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">In the second episode, he brushes aside a wise suggestion to push the panels back to the satellite with asolar wind. His first instinct is using a bomb. Failing that, he gets a srtranded astrochimp to grab a drill, go out ina spoace and fix it. Ain’t never going to happen — but the suspension of belief is OK. It’s a funny sequence.I’ll go with it.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">And see if this series eve takes off.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Trump is never mentioned by name. Just references to POTUS. A trweeting, blustering, impulsiuve, PR-crazy POTUS. You know who the hell he is. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The show also teases you with the knowed that his wife was sent to prison a year after he got the job. Doesn’t say why. A political action, oprbably. But it’sa clever hook to keep you watching. Y</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">He orders her not to land on the helipad. She defies the order. It’s a nice character moment. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So he knows trhelps his daughter No idiot he. But he makes rookie science mistakes that nobody with those math skills would ever make.</span><br />
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Marty Fugatehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05077693961075517845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-345052541839184472.post-9221980219647289872020-06-05T13:19:00.001-07:002020-06-10T19:10:07.157-07:00Fascism for Dummies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VaRenMFCyxQ/Xtq11ZDtpiI/AAAAAAAAIbc/yCeq2DJeO-kHQxYyd7rkMuwcdTTkGB4oACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/BootFace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1519" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VaRenMFCyxQ/Xtq11ZDtpiI/AAAAAAAAIbc/yCeq2DJeO-kHQxYyd7rkMuwcdTTkGB4oACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/BootFace.jpg" width="606" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Umberto Eco has a concise definition of <a href="https://badfuture.blogspot.com/2017/01/ur-fascism.html">fascism</a>.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mine is even shorter:</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>Fascism is the political expression of Sadomasochism.</i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">(To be nice and sparkling clear, I'm talking S+M in the original Marquis de Sade sense, not fun and games with safe words.)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">First-edition Sadism. Ur-Sadism. The Sadistic equivalent of Classic Coke.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Defined as: <i>Getting off on somebody else's pain. Expressing your dominance through cruelty. Defining your own superiority by selecting a victim, and putting them in a submissive, inferior position by humiliating, degrading and hurting them — up to the point of murder.</i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">That's the original flavor.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I was slow to make the connection. I didn’t get it at first, even after reading about George Floyd's murder. But it started a slow train of thought. I got to wondering ...</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>Floyd's ugly killing is nothing new. That’s the ugly truth. </i></span><i style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">White cops have slaughtered unarmed black people for a long, long time. Video records of this ultimate police brutality are relatively new. They’ve sparked street actions before — but not on this scale. Floyd’s execution pushed African-Americans over the edge — and ignited a gut-level reaction on a national scale. Why? What's the difference? </i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The answer is dead-obvious, at least to black people. Being a sheltered white guy, I failed to see it, even after reading the news story. Then I clicked on the video of George Floyd's execution. Just a few seconds. Couldn't take any more. But that was enough. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A YouTube video's worth a thousand words.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>What's the difference?</i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">After seeing Floyd's murder-by-cop with my own eyes, I finally got the picture ...</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>Officer Derek Chauvin didn't merely kill George Floyd. He took his time. Enjoyed it. Got off on it.</i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It was a classic act of sadistic cruelty. A kink. A form of sexual perversion. That's what I saw after more than a week. That's what black people instantly saw. And why America's streets are on fire. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">George Floyd was starring in a white cop's personal snuff film. Black people don't want to play that anymore. Then it hit me ...</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This snuff film has a name ...</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>Fascism. The all-American franchise called white supremacy.</i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Slow learner that I am, I finally realized that fascism = S+M with parades, flags and uniforms. </span></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It's a sexual fetish. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Duh. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">A</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">ll the leather, jack boots, whips, and stomping. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">What else could it be?</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Not the most original observation, I know. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Intellectually, I already knew it. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It's a major theme in Thomas Pynchon's </span><i style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Gravity's Rainbow.</i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> The ugly lesson of the movie </span><i style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Closet Land. </i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">And the nightmare takeaway of George Orwell's </span><i style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">1984 ...</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>"If you want a vision of the future, imagine a boot stamping on a human face — forever."</i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This kink is global. And it's been around for a long, long time.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">But in these United States, the face tends to be black.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">And white people wear the boots.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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Marty Fugatehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05077693961075517845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-345052541839184472.post-43636917819415179132020-06-04T08:56:00.001-07:002020-06-04T08:59:50.777-07:00"Rocketman" • Drive-by review<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FkmQsd11uME/XtkZLmZ-QeI/AAAAAAAAIbQ/ooJIIyo0WWIIcFbzYQi1HAadDFUsY0ZPgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Rocketman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FkmQsd11uME/XtkZLmZ-QeI/AAAAAAAAIbQ/ooJIIyo0WWIIcFbzYQi1HAadDFUsY0ZPgCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/Rocketman.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">"Screw you, David Bowie! My astronaut song is better!"</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>Rocketman</i>. Jeez Louise. This biopic rockstar movie-musical rubbed me the wrong way at first. Its indifference to facts, and whatnot. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Full disclosure: Elton John was never at the top of my personal hit list. But even I know he didn’t play <i>Crocodile Rock</i> at the Troubadour in 1970. The song came out in 1972, man! C’mon! One of many inaccuracies. But freed of facts, the director just played around. Self-indulgent fantasy! The story beats are as obvious as the mile markers on Alligator Alley! You can see ‘em a mile away!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Yeah, OK. But the filmic result is a hell of a lot more entertaining than <i>Bohemian Rhapsody.</i> Once I realized that fact, I stopped grinding my teeth and enjoyed this counterfactual flick. It’s an interesting portrait of a singer-songwriter. Who is and isn’t a singer-songwriter. Which got me thinking ...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The A-list singer-songwriters all have a unique persona. Ian Anderson is the sneering pirate/troubadour/jester. Bob Dylan is the unwashed phenomenon. Mick Jagger is the androgynous Antichrist. David Bowie is the Man from Mars. Elton John is the flamboyant dude with big glasses banging on the old piano. The difference being …</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Elton John didn’t write the songs. Bernie Taupin did.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">For the Elton John persona.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cool. So who the hell is Elton John?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The movie teases you with the question. Formulaic redemption aside, it never answers it.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">But it’s damn entertaining.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
Marty Fugatehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05077693961075517845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-345052541839184472.post-54404189144220939252020-06-03T22:10:00.001-07:002020-06-04T08:57:12.156-07:00"Rocketman" • Drive-by review<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FkmQsd11uME/XtkZLmZ-QeI/AAAAAAAAIbQ/ooJIIyo0WWIIcFbzYQi1HAadDFUsY0ZPgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Rocketman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FkmQsd11uME/XtkZLmZ-QeI/AAAAAAAAIbQ/ooJIIyo0WWIIcFbzYQi1HAadDFUsY0ZPgCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/Rocketman.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">"Screw you, David Bowie! My astronaut song is better!"</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>Rocketman</i>. Jeez Louise. This biopic rockstar movie-musical rubbed me the wrong way at first. Its indifference to facts, and whatnot. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Full disclosure: Elton John was never at the top of my personal hit list. But even I know he didn’t play <i>Crocodile Rock</i> at the Troubadour in 1970. The song came out in 1973, man! C’mon! One of many inaccuracies. But freed of facts, the director just played around. Self-indulgent fantasy! The story beats are as obvious as the mile markers on Alligator Alley! You can see ‘em a mile away!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Yeah, OK. But the filmic result is a hell of a lot more entertaining than <i>Bohemian Rhapsody.</i> Once I realized that fact, I stopped grinding my teeth and enjoyed this counterfactual flick. It’s an interesting portrait of a singer-songwriter. Who is and isn’t a singer-songwriter. Which got me thinking ...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The A-list singer-songwriters all have a unique persona. Ian Anderson is the sneering pirate/troubadour/jester. Bob Dylan is the unwashed phenomenon. Mick Jagger is the androgynous Antichrist. David Bowie is the Man from Mars. Elton John is the flamboyant dude with big glasses banging on the old piano. The difference being …</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Elton John didn’t write the songs. Bernie Taupin did.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">For the Elton John persona.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cool. So who the hell is Elton John?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The movie teases you with the question. Formulaic redemption aside, it never answers it.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">But it’s damn entertaining.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
Marty Fugatehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05077693961075517845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-345052541839184472.post-38585624330931853472020-05-07T07:43:00.002-07:002020-05-07T08:24:44.820-07:00The Killing of Doctor Mars • by Kevin Dean<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Dr. Mars is dead. Word came down from Beck yesterday that our mutual mentor had finally gone too far and They’d nailed him. The man always had a fine-tuned instinct for exactly what he could get away with, what invisible lines he could cross and still come back. But, as he’d always reminded us, you only have to fuck up once.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">That his demise was dramatic and bizarre came as no surprise. But the timing was all wrong. Everyone who’d known Dr. Leland Mars knew he was doing the dance of the doomed. He’d first boogied out to the killing floors way back in the old cattle drivin’ days of the 1960s, back before they started putting stuff in the water, before everyone went all sappy and rolled over for THE SYSTEM. The good doctor stayed out there, dancing away, long after the rest of us had turned in our dance cards, cut our hair, and sold out to the Man. That Mars survived the ’70s was amazing. The fact that he endured the Reagan ’80s without doing something rash was nothing short of Biblical in its miraculousness.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I don’t wish to sound cavalier about another man’s life, but it would’ve been better if he’d gone out in a blaze of glory. As it was, Mars drifted through two miserable decades like the ghost of a Counterculture Past. But few among the cadre of select students who were on the receiving end of his generosity of thought, spirit and sustenance really knew what happened to him after he left the university in 1972. In their happy romantic ignorance, they still see him as he was. In their mind’s eye, Dr. Mars will always remain the robust champion of serious literature and lost causes. A man who could mesmerize an audience with his memories of his nights as a white blues musician, and his days as a political warrior in the good fight. Or the stories he’d read from his books, which drew heavily from his experiential well. In the minds of his former students, Mars will never grow old. And his icon will never fade. Physically, he’s still a ruggedly handsome man with a thick beard and lion’s mane of graying blonde hair. Intellectually, he’s still the most stimulating teacher they ever had. His students keep the faith, at least in their mind’s eye. Why blame them? The man believed that the art of writing could move people to action, but only if it were the product of truth, the kind of truth that can only come from being out there on the perimeter, the kind of truth we all found in his books.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mars paid a terrible price to learn these worldly truths. But beatings, jail time and death threats only hardened his resolve. He had no quest for martyrdom. We all just figured martyrdom would find him. Mars was a goddamn hero. If he died, he’d go out in a blaze of glory like Butch and Sundance. He died, all right. But that’s not the way his story ends.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mars had his glory years. After that, he just kept living. Out of sight but never out of mind. The few of us he allowed to get close assumed he'd never change. In the end, our stubborn New Left messiah would die for our sins. That’s what we all assumed. But we were wrong.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Most of us had no clue. But Beck and I had the misfortune of meeting the shell of the man. We found him in a place that only served to emphasize that the dream, as John Lennon had said long ago, was over.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">But I must digress from that sad reunion. A more detailed explanation of who Dr. Mars was is in order so the impact of his decline may be properly understood.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mars was not his given name. He was born Leland Stedwell Montrose IV. The year was 1936. His father was the descendent of the Southern aristocracy that had ruled over vast holdings in the South Carolina low country around Charleston since the 18th century. When Leland Montrose III wed the equally well-heeled Charlotte Stedwell, the scions of the region viewed it as a marriage made in antebellum heaven. The alliance was bound to produce, in the estimation of the region’s bluebloods, a progeny whose birth would be akin to the second coming.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">But something went horribly wrong when Leland IV, whose very name summed up what would be expected of him, popped from the womb. Instead of carrying on the fine old Southern traditions, this eldest son of the eldest son became a class traitor and so scandalized the family name they began denying he ever existed.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The trouble started early. As a boy he preferred the company of the black field hands to that of his own kind. “They could tell the goddamndest stories,” he told us later, “Everybody in my own family was so deadly boring I couldn’t handle it so I just started hanging around with the field hands.” Even then, he carried notebooks everywhere, wrote down everything he could. “Thinks didn’t match up. Started to figure I’d been handed a lot of bullshit,” he said, “Started to ask some questions my daddy couldn’t answer.” A succession of military schools failed to break him. If anything, they toughened his resolve to be everything his family hated. When the Kenyon Review published his first short story—an expose of the now defunct military academy—he told his father, “I’m a goddamn genius, and there’s not a whole hell of a lot I can learn around here.” He cashed the check (which wasn’t that much) and left the big white house.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">By the age of seventeen, Leland had become a proficient country blues musician. Juke Joint singers had been his teachers. That a wealthy, barely-pubescent whiteboy from a family that had fought so hard to maintain the institutions of segregation could win acceptance in a world so different from his own is testimony to the power of Leland Montrose’s personality and sincerity.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The final break between rebellious son and the unmovable father came in 1956 when Leland took part in his first Civil Rights action. It was a minor skirmish at a lunch counter, but it landed Leland in jail. Leland III left his offspring there until the authorities, who’d grown tired of the lad’s all-too-successful efforts at organizing protests among the prisoners, finally kicked him out. Leland’s name had saved him from physical abuse and he knew it. So, upon release, he went to a courthouse and started the proceedings to have his last name legally changed. After much thought, he settled on the moniker Mars—a nod to the fiery abolitionist from the 1850s, not the angry red planet. After that, Mars proceeded to follow the lead of his chosen namesake and declare war on the powers that be.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Disowned and broke, Mars started traveling the coffeehouse circuit. When he wasn’t on stage, he was out in the field helping to organize black boycotts and voter registration drives. The aforementioned scars from beatings provided an even more vivid record of those years than the diaries he kept. White racists supplied most of the beatings. A few came from black people, who didn’t trust the loudmouth white kid. "Sins of the father," is the way he described it. "If I was them, I'd kick my ass, too."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">In 1958 Mars was awarded a scholarship to Columbia. It was the beginning of a meteoric student career that ended when he earned his Ph.D. in literature from Berkley in 1961. By then, Mars had already published two collections of short stories and his first novel, White N****r Blues, a scathing, autobiographical black comedy that created a small but enthusiastic cult following among the politically aware. I’m painfully aware this title seems shocking to the budding new crop of college activists. Hard to explain, kids. Mars was following in the footsteps of Lenny Bruce, another dead icon. He’d probably shock them too.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mars started teaching shortly after receiving his master’s degree. His radical politics, which were now turned against the war in Vietnam, had gotten him bounced out of two universities already when, in 1967, he took a job at Breckinridge University—a second-tier four-year college in Nowheresville, Illinois. This academic institution boasted a 110-year commitment to academic mediocrity and political ignorance. The school’s clueless administration didn’t know Doctor Mars from Planet Mars. They didn’t follow the Detroit Daily News, the Freep, or the New York Times for that matter. The times were a changing across America, but Breckinridge didn’t. Its administrators felt Mars would fit right in. While they hadn’t read his books, they knew he was a published author. There were few on staff at the time, and it was quite a black eye. So they gave Mars a freshman American Literature survey course. What harm could he do?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I happened to attend Dr. Mars’ course as a college freshman. I didn’t know what I was in for, just figured it was an easy-A. To me, the name “Leland Mars” was nothing more than an entry on a computer-generated course roster. But by the end of the quarter, I’d fallen under the good doctor’s spell and subsequently enrolled in every class he taught, despite of the fact that I was majoring in art rather than literature.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I saw the value in him. Evidently, Mars saw something of value in me. I became one of the handful of students he invited to his house for extracurricular sessions that always lasted late into the night. He’d sit up in his throne-like wicker chair, chain-smoking cigars and sipping Jack Daniels, while listening to the discussions he got rolling through a series of provocative questions. When Mars heard something he didn’t like, he let you know it, loudly. Once he’d reduced your ideas to a mound of guava jelly, he was gracious enough to build you back up and get you on a much more productive line of thinking.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The political climate at the mediocre old school heated up considerably after Dr. Mars arrived. With a little help, he dragged the college kicking and screaming into the 1960s.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mars and four other professors constituted the first anti-war march the city had ever seen. They got as far as the Honey Dipper Tavern, a notorious hang-out for redneck garbagemen and septic tank haulers on the west side of the square, before being jumped by an outraged garbageman/patriot and several of his cronies. Subsequent actions, most notably the moratorium marches in October and November of 1969, drew more criticism.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">When Mars opened his big mouth, that tended to happen. The SDS crowd said he was too damn timid—not truly engagé, man. The radicals changed their tune when the invasion of Cambodia and the deaths at Kent State brought Mars back to the front lines. He came back from the march with a few new scars and the inspiration for his second novel—<i>Bringing the War Back Home, Mamma</i>. It earned him have reviews in The Freep and The Village Voice. But the faculty regents cringed when angry parents started calling about the nasty commie book full of swear words. There were lots of angry words, but Mars shrugged them off. Sticks and stones can break your bones, but words can never hurt you. But bullets can.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">On two successive nights, somebody shot at Mars’ house from a passing car. On the third night, Mars shot back. That was the beginning of the end of his tenure at Breckenridge.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I was a third year student at the time. I showed up for his Western Civilization class. Mars had nailed a manifesto to the door of Monty Hall like Martin Luther. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>Howdy kids. Sorry to disappoint you, but you will not find the good Doctor Mars inside these hallowed halls. Not today, or ever again. I’m not fired. I quit. But that’s not exactly true. The gutless administrators called me in for a nice long talk. They wouldn’t let me quit or fire me, but they just kept talking, and nearly bored me to death. I finally got sick of all the talk and walked out. Anyway you cut it, I’m gone, kids. I’m not going to work on Maggie’s Farm no more.</i></span><br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Peace and love – </span></i></span></i></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">your pal, Dr. Mars.</span></i></div>
</div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Dr. Mars dropped off the radar after that. Beck and I graduated, went on to graduate school, and finally entered the real world. In the years that followed, periodic rumors filled our ears. We’d hear that Mars was teaching at some Podunk college. A week or two later, we’d hear they kicked him out. His politics always got him into trouble, so we weren’t surprised. At the dawn of the Reagan administration, Mars was reduced to an itinerant lecturer’s status. That was the rumor, anyway. After that, the rumors stopped. And Beck and I lost track of him.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">And now we’ve come to the tragic part of the story. In the fall of 1991, I did an exhibition at Breckenridge’s Fulton Gallery, just down the street from my old alma mater.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Beck showed up, said some not too idiotic things about my paintings. An engineering major, not an art critic. But he’d driven 150 miles from Indiana, and I appreciated it. After the opening, we walked down to our old haunt, a beat-up college bar called Tony’s Joint. It looked shitty in the 1960s. And just as shitty now.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">As this dive had the site of many a drinking session with Dr. Mars, Beck and I got all sappy and nostalgic and started reminiscing about our long lost friend. We were deep in remember-when conversation when an old man wearing a worn Army surplus raincoat asked if he could join us. The old man’s face, like the rest of his body, sagged from years of abuse. The redness of his nose indicated that liquor had been the demon that had put him in his current condition. Dr. Mars, in the flesh. But that flesh was ruined. The man was a wreck. We didn’t recognize him.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So there we sat with this walking corpse. Awkward situation, huh? Nobody said a word for a minute or two. I could hear the pinball machine going ding, ding ding in the corner. But something nagged at me. There was something vaguely familiar about the old man.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Then the old man finally broke the silence. He spoke in a noticeable Southern drawl. And he spoke to me.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“Sorry I missed your opening, kid,” he said. “It’s even harder than it used to be to get parts for a Volkswagen bus when you break down on the goddamn Interstate.”</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Once those words left the old man's mouth, Beck and I instantly knew who he was.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Dr. Mars.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">We’d summoned him, I thought. All our weepy nostalgic talk brought him back—like some kind of damn ghost who’s heard his name.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mars reached for the bottle of Jack Daniels that Beck and I had been nursing. I half expected his hand to go through it. But he grabbed it. And killed it in seconds.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">After the shock of seeing what was left of Dr. Mars wore off, we started grilling him. “Where the hell have you been all these years,” Beck asked. “Wanderin’ through the wasteland, boys, doin’ the dharma bum gig.” was his reply. “What are you living on?” I asked—but Mars wouldn’t answer. We had to prime him with whiskey before he’d say anything more. So we flagged the waitress for another bottle of Jack. The bottle arrived. Mars sucked it down like a human water cooler. Then he really started talking. His tale was so pathetic we were sorry we’d asked.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mars had indeed spent time as a gypsy professor, but politics wasn’t what ruined his career. Disgust did him in. With himself, the country, the world, you name it. That disgust led to serious drinking and finally madness. Institutions, car wrecks, alleyway beatings. Mars told us the whole sad story for the next half hour or so. Beck and I wanted to run. But once Mars started talking, we couldn’t move. Like the Rime of the Ancient Mariner, huh?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I’ll recreate the crux of the conversation to the best of my limited abilities.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mars absorbed his third bottle of Jack Daniels. Then got all weepy and maudlin. And spilled his guts.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“Truth is, I couldn’t take it anymore my little droogies. I just couldn’t take it. The bastards got to me.”</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“What bastards?” I asked, “Administrators, politicians, the cops?”</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“Nah,” he says, “I could always handle those bastards. I’m talking about you bastards—you students. You gave up and headed for the hills—or the goddamn suburbs.”</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“Sorry,” I mumbled into my beer. “I’m sorry...”</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“Got yourselves some nice straight jobs, didntcha?”</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“It just kinda happened,” said Beck.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“Yeah. You all got credit cards and televisions and mortgages. 'Just kinda happened,' huh? Jesus Christ, you kids. You were the generation, remember? You were gonna do it...”</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“I was going to get around to it,” said Beck. “Life sorta happened.”</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mars thundered—and grabbed a random drink from a waitress’ tray meant for somebody else’s table.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“Life sorta happened? Stop making excuses! That’s pure bullshit and you know it!”</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mars pounded the table. Glasses and bottles jumped. Our fellow patrons gave us dirty looks. But it never stopped him before.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“You wanna know the truth? You bastards —”</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mars paused to down the glass of whatever it is he’d grabbed. Then resumed his train of thought.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“You sold out! That’s the truth! Hell, I don’t blame you. At least you bastards tried … for a year or two. It’s the bastards who followed you that killed me off—those know-nothing sons-a-bitches. At least you punks believed in art and ideas and all that hippy crap. You punks something going there for a while—until you pissed it all away and got replaced by an army of Reaganites. Pod people, that’s what they are—just like The Invasion of the Body Snatchers. Pod people...and you know how they reproduce?”</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mars pointed to the glowing, flickering TV set mounted above the bar.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“That thing. That goddamn thing. Glass teat. One eyed monsters. Sucks the life out of you, sucks the soul of you. Turns you into a heartless, soulless pod! Look at Reagan. He’s the first pod! A goddamn grin with nothing behind it. First there’s just him, then he starts reproducing—through that thing. People start watching, start turning into little Reaganites. That’s how they breed, see? The pod people gotta have their Gold Card! Gotta have the latest goddamn two-hundred dollar inflatable tennis shoes! Can’t think any more, can’t read a book, wouldn’t occur to any of ’em to do anything. Life’s something you watch. Life’s what happens on the other side of that screen up there. The goddamn Gipper was the first and now that’s all there is—except for me and maybe you.”</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">A redneck in the corner with his cap on backwards was glaring at us, then finally turned away. Mars gave me a hard, searching look and reached for his glass again. Once he realized it was empty, he reached for Beck’s glass.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“I’m the last man, boys,” he said. “The last man on earth, a living fossil of a dead species ... just a dinosaur now boys, a Coelacanth, a stumbling cliché. Yessir, ol’ Dr. Mars is just a ghost, a graveyard ghost. A ghost in the flesh, if you’ll pardon the mixed metaphors. Now who’s going to buy me another drink?”</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I did, over the waitress’ strenuous objections. Beck bought him the next one. After sucking them down, Mars continued his story.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“I’ve been keeping track of some of you, ya know. You may think you’re still in the fight, but the fact is, no one cares anymore. You’re just going through the motions, that’s all—like some goddamn lives-of-the-artist thing on PBS. You’re just doing a lot of shit somebody already did back in Paris in 1922. Wanna know a secret? The Pod People don’t give a shit. They don’t care about what you paint, they don’t care about what you write, they don’t care about nothin’, man, but getting ahead.”</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mars drained my beer and went on. “Ever wonder what happened to me? ‘Course you did. Well, I’ll tell you.”</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mars’ hand shot out to the table. Felt blindly. The mind behind it realized there was no more booze. So he pulled out a flash from his diseased overcoat. Drank it all. Then continued.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“I was giving a lecture at some bullshit college in upstate New York—one of those yuppie-preppie places for clean white folks. Don’t ask me why they asked me to talk. One of the literature professors remembered my books or something, I dunno. The point is I went, and did my talk to a couple of dozen students— who probably were ordered to be there. One of them raised his hand and asked—asked me mind you—if he could ask me a question. I said sure. And the kid looks at me all serious-like and says, ‘Given the fluctuating trends in television programming, what kind of subject matter would you recommend we specialize in, if any?’ ‘Listen,’ I told him, ‘I’m not following you. You mind repeating that?’ And the kid comes back with ‘Considering the dominance of media-related crossover demographics in the publishing industry—what niche do you really feel is on the upswing?’ ‘Speak English,’ I tell him. ‘Tell me what you’re saying in plain English!’ And snotnose kid looks me straight in the eyes and says ‘I want to write for TV. That’s where the money is. How do you break in to writing for TV?’ And that’s what finally did it.”</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mars shook his gray head sadly. “I snapped, boys. I reached in my pocket and pulled out my snub-nose .38 and told the little bastards to put their wallets on the floor r-right in front of me. Then I started blasting them—got ‘em all right through their Gold Cards, heh. They put me in the bughouse with the spirit of Naomi for that one.”</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Beck and I looked at him blankly.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Ah, Christ. Naomi Jaffe, you morons. Weather Underground, Days of Rage. Chicago cops —"</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mars slumped down on the countertop. I figured it was time to hit the road and reached for my wallet—but he reached out and grabbed my arm with a claw-like hand.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“Put that goddamn thing away,” he said, “This one’s on me. You bastards listened to me. Figure I owe you one.”</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mars reached in his pocket and pulled out a monstrously thick wad of bills.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">My eyes got big. He answered my question before I asked it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“Been writing for TV,” he said, “That’s where the goddamn money is. You wanna sell out, that where you go.”</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Beck turned white. It looked like he was trying not to vomit. But I had to ask.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“What do you write?”</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“Lotta nostalgic shit about the ’60s, you know? Pays good.”</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">To prove the point, Mars reeled off a list of cheapjack made-for-TV movies. Free Love for Sale, Rock Angel Blues, Commune Commies. I gave him a blank look.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“Not familiar with my oeuvre, huh?”</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I shook my head no.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“Of course not. I write under a pseudonym, dumbass. Jack Ares, get it? Dr. Mars would never write that shit. But Jack Ares … he’s happy to sell out. More than happy. That’s the story, anyway. Don’t want bum my old students out, dig? Little bastards can keep their illusions. Least I can do for the little …”</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The good doctor's head thudded down to the counter again. While he slept, I stuffed his money back in his pocket. Beck and I paid the bar tab and managed to drag him into the car. Beck stayed behind in the bar parking lot awaiting the tow truck to haul the wreck of Mars’ VW microbus. I drove my car to the Holiday Inn room the university had rented for me with the wreck of Dr. Mars mumbling incoherently in my back seat.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">“Remember what Nietzsche said?”</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“Nietzsche said a lot of things.”</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">“I philosophize with a hammer—that’s good, ain’t it? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Philosophize with a goddamn hammer...”</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Somehow, God knows how, I dragged the good doctor’s dead weight into the room and plopped him down on the bed. The bastard snored like a buzz saw and kept me up most of the night. When I woke up the next morning, he was gone. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Long gone.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I found out where on the following night in an identical room in another Holiday Inn outside Kankakee. The Boob Tube the good doctor despised was the bearer of bad news.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I turned on the 5 o’clock news to see a live feed of Dr. Mars bugging out in some monster warehouse discount store on the outskirts of Peoria. Sheer dumb luck I saw him; sheer dumb luck he was on TV. Local crew was filming the grand opening, some talking head was yapping, just another puff piece. I almost changed channels. Then I saw him plain as day. Right behind the blow-dried newsman, there’s old Dr. Mars, hollering his head off like the mad prophet he is. Smelling a story, the TV crew followed him like a pack of bloodhounds as Mars walked straight back to the Home Improvement department to pick up a five-pound sledgehammer, then proceeded to the Home Entertainment department to smash all the shiny new television sets, just methodically working the rows. “Ladies and gentlemen … this is astonishing!” Before long, my wall-mounted TV revealed row on row of gutted boob boxes, like so many blinded Cyclopses. “His anger seems directed at the TV sets, not any of the people in the store ... or us. We don’t fear for our safety—until we do, we’ll continue to bring this amazing story as it unfolds, live on Channel 17.” Sure you will. The destruction of TV is great TV. But that kind of stunt doesn’t play in Peoria. Predictably, things got ugly fast. I saw it all in living color.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mars interrupted his labors and started bellowing about the “vast wasteland.” Then the store lit up like a disco. Cop lights flashing, sirens blaring. Then the cops stormed into the store and stomped past the camera crew. Mars picked up the sledge again and smashed an RCA XL 100. The cops took exception to his threatening gestures and pumped him full of lead from their new 9mm semi-automatics. The Butch and Sundance ending we’d always expected. But not a blaze of glory. Nothing heroic or romantic about it. Just a sad and ugly scene. Just another nut in America who finally lost it. A loser. A joke. A casualty. One more suicide by cop. Details at 11 on Channel 17.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I watched the paramedics carry Mars away, then clicked off the TV.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It’s 9 o’clock now. Beck just finished calling me to inform me that Mars had hung on for a while at the hospital, but finally checked out.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">9:01. 9:02. So it goes.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">9:03.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Now I’m just sitting here fingering the good doctor’s snub-nose .38. Mars had left it behind when he ducked out last night. I found it in the pockets of his ratty old overcoat. He’d draped if over the Magic Fingers, where he knew I’d surely find it. An oversight? Or a gift for me? Maybe. His final lesson for his worst student.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">A short while ago, I took out my Gold Card, laid it on the plush shag carpet and almost shot a hole through it, but thought better of it. No blaze of glory for me, folks. I’m going to sit back on the bed and finish another bottle of Jack Daniels instead.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Dr. Mars would’ve wanted it that way.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>If all of this wasn’t a fiction designed to lament the passing of a time when people still believed in the power of ideas and the art that ideas produced, it would be a real sad story, dontcha think?</i></span><br />
<br />
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Marty Fugatehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05077693961075517845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-345052541839184472.post-22910500367762859852020-04-07T19:23:00.000-07:002020-04-08T10:32:01.101-07:00Review: Tales from the Loop<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 24px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jKPRQiKxh4A/Xo1I0jo2wYI/AAAAAAAAIWQ/WYPWsvhoi14AM50lwURqqjwp8tJqrLexgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Tales-from-the-Loop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1311" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jKPRQiKxh4A/Xo1I0jo2wYI/AAAAAAAAIWQ/WYPWsvhoi14AM50lwURqqjwp8tJqrLexgCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/Tales-from-the-Loop.jpg" width="524" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial";">“Tales from the Loop” is a brilliant show. A televised work of fantastic fiction, to be precise; Amazon's latest series. Kids are involved. And weird conspiracies they don’t understand. That said, it’s not “Stranger Things.” It tries very hard not to be “Stranger Things.” That’s what’s wrong with it. And why it falls short of genius. Based on the first episode, anyway.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial";">The teleplay was born as visual art. The “wondrous paintings” of <a href="https://www.simonstalenhag.se/">Simon Stålenhag</a>, according to Wikipedia. Cool idea, eh? Like weaving a story around the paintings of Renee Magritte. “The giant eye floated in the air …” Why not? I’ll tell you why …<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial";">If you build a show around the paintings of Magritte or Stålenhag, the result will be cool visuals. And not necessarily a cool story.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial";">The opening episode involves a little girl living in a weirdass community in Dakota, Sweden, or someplace. Snowy, dig? Inside the homes, the design scheme is late ‘70s, early ‘80s. The phone on the wall has a dial; the PC is early Radio Shack. But there are robots. And dudes with prosthetic arms. Outside the homes, there are no powerlines. But there are bizarre, glowing towers that look like angry faces. And more robots. As our story begins, a Little Girl’s Mom has stolen Something Important from “Underground.” Mom speaks and sings in a foreign language. Mom disappears. The house disappears. The Little Girl goes looking for her. In the place where the house used to be, she finds a weird artifact, presumably stolen by Mom. She also finds a Little Boy who ignores all her insults and helps her. Telekinetic incidents ensue. Water drips up, a house falls into the sky, piece by piece. But the lLittle Girl keeps looking. The little boy tags along. The dude at the gateway to Underground denies all knowledge—then makes a phone call. The game is afoot. Hi-ho.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial";">After that, I won't spoil it. </span><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt;">But here are my observations for now. Good news first. Then bad.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial";">As noted, the story unfolds on Stephen King territory. <i>Conspiracy of scientists, check. Kids on the outside looking in, check. A mystery to solve, check. </i>It's been done to death, but the show gets away with it by changing the look and feel.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial";"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial";">Mood is everything. Despite the scary situation, the mood is rarely scary. Reflecting its painterly source material, the show is arty, evocative, haunting, and downright pretty. "Stranger Things," with art direction by Andrew Wyeth.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial";">It works, brilliantly. The look-and-feel sucked me in. I wanted to love this show. At best I could only sorta like it. Because it's style isn't matched by substance.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial";">The show bent over backwards to find a new style. In the process, they forgot about character. Specifically, the central character. Simply put ...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial";">The central character has no character.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Little Girl has no agency. (Abby, to finally give her a name.) In the screenplay, she functions as a chess piece moving dutifully across a plot-point chessboard. </span><i style="font-size: 12pt;">Pawn to Queen Four: Mom has an argument. Bishop to King’s Rook Six: Mom is missing.</i><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> Abby's words are all on point. Bullshit. Real kids don’t talk like that! Even in weirdass fantasy realms! The screenwriter closely studied Stålenhag's paintings. But have they ever observed a real kid?</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial";">Behind the words, there's no sense of Abby's mind at work. The intelligence behind her eyes. Her point of view. You’re never in the slippery now of her awareness. The sloppiness of life ain’t there. But it sure is pretty. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial";">Pretty does not a story make. Especially in the realm of fantastic fiction.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt;">Fantasy works when it's grounded in reality. It's great to get Tesla's theories right—but forgivable if you get them wrong. The reality of character matters most. Get it right, and the reader/viewer will believe in hobbits. Get it wrong, and nothing else matters. No matter how pretty it is.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt;">To be fair, I guess I'll watch the rest of the series.</span><br />
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Marty Fugatehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05077693961075517845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-345052541839184472.post-29213884181796822192020-03-26T21:37:00.001-07:002020-03-26T21:37:31.371-07:00The Prisoner • Once Upon a Time(Thunder)<br />
<br />
(Six) Where am I?<br />
<br />
(Two) In the village.<br />
<br />
(Six) What do you want?<br />
<br />
(Two) Information.<br />
<br />
(Six) Whose side are you on?<br />
<br />
(Two) That would be telling.<br />
<br />
(Two) We want information...<br />
<br />
(Two) Information...<br />
<br />
(Two) Information.<br />
<br />
(Six) You won't get it.<br />
<br />
(Two) By hook or by crook...<br />
. . .we will.<br />
<br />
(Six) Who are you?<br />
<br />
(Two) The new Number Two.<br />
<br />
(Six) Who is Number One?<br />
<br />
(Two) You are Number Six.<br />
<br />
(Six) I am not a number.<br />
I am a free man!<br />
<br />
(Number Two laughs)<br />
<br />
(Organ music)<br />
<br />
Wait.<br />
<br />
Remove it!<br />
<br />
I told you to remove it!<br />
<br />
Remove that thing, too.<br />
I'm not an inmate!<br />
<br />
Say what you like.<br />
You brought me back.<br />
<br />
You use the wrong approach!<br />
<br />
Do it my way or find somebody else.<br />
<br />
Leave the coffee. LEAVE IT!<br />
<br />
How many times do I have to ask?<br />
<br />
A likely lad.<br />
<br />
Why do you care?<br />
<br />
Take it easy... relax.<br />
<br />
Why do you care?<br />
<br />
Number Six, please.<br />
<br />
(Phone rings)<br />
<br />
- Why do you care?<br />
- I know your voice.<br />
<br />
I've been here before.<br />
Why do you care?<br />
<br />
You'll never know.<br />
<br />
Wait and see.<br />
<br />
How?<br />
<br />
- Don't do that.<br />
- What?<br />
<br />
- Enquire.<br />
- What's your number? What is it?<br />
<br />
- Be careful!<br />
- 1 , 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7...<br />
<br />
- Quiet!<br />
- 8, 9, 1 0, 1 1 ,<br />
<br />
1 2, 1 3, 1 4, 1 5, 1 6?<br />
<br />
Going to escape and come back.<br />
<br />
Wipe this place off the face<br />
of the earth, and you with it.<br />
<br />
Is this how they<br />
started to break you<br />
<br />
before you gave them<br />
what they were after?<br />
<br />
I've resigned.<br />
I will not be pushed, filed, stamped,<br />
<br />
indexed, briefed,<br />
debriefed or numbered!<br />
<br />
I want to call<br />
a character witness.<br />
<br />
Degree Absolute.<br />
I require approval.<br />
<br />
Unlike me, you have accepted<br />
imprisonment and will die here.<br />
<br />
If you think he's that important...<br />
<br />
There's no alternative.<br />
You must risk either one of us.<br />
<br />
I intend to discover who are<br />
the prisoners and who the warders.<br />
<br />
I am a good man.<br />
<br />
I was a good man,<br />
but he will be better.<br />
<br />
There's no other way.<br />
I repeat, no other way!<br />
<br />
I will not make deals.<br />
I've resigned.<br />
<br />
Degree Absolute, tonight.<br />
<br />
I will not be pushed,<br />
filed, stamped, indexed or numbered.<br />
<br />
A week's not long enough!<br />
You'll damage him.<br />
<br />
- My life is my own.<br />
- Very well...<br />
<br />
Tonight.<br />
<br />
Degree Absolute, you're under orders.<br />
<br />
- What period?<br />
- One week.<br />
<br />
- Emergency?<br />
- It has to be.<br />
<br />
- Mind if I check?<br />
- You check nothing!<br />
<br />
- Release personnel!<br />
- First shift - early release.<br />
<br />
Time sheets as normal.<br />
Double night time.<br />
<br />
Double night time.<br />
<br />
- Blow up Channel Three.<br />
- Channel Three.<br />
<br />
- Check profundity!<br />
- One, two,<br />
<br />
three, four, five, six.<br />
<br />
First waveband clear.<br />
<br />
Repeat and increase!<br />
<br />
One, two, three,<br />
<br />
four, five, six...<br />
<br />
Still clear.<br />
<br />
Third waveband, slow...<br />
and hold on five.<br />
<br />
One... two...<br />
<br />
three... four...<br />
<br />
five...<br />
<br />
Five... Five... Five...<br />
<br />
Five... Five...<br />
<br />
DIMINISH!<br />
<br />
Five... Five... Five... Five...<br />
<br />
Five... Five...<br />
<br />
Safe enough.<br />
<br />
- I'll take over.<br />
- A risk. I'd hate to see you go.<br />
<br />
It's all yours for one week.<br />
Degree Absolute... OPERATE!<br />
<br />
Humpty Dumpty sat on the wall<br />
<br />
Humpty Dumpty had a great fall...<br />
<br />
All the king's horses<br />
and all the king's men<br />
<br />
Couldn't put<br />
Humpty together again<br />
<br />
JACK AND JILL<br />
WENT UP THE HILL<br />
<br />
TO FETCH A PAIL OF WATER...<br />
<br />
JACK FELL DOWN<br />
AND BROKE HIS CROWN<br />
<br />
AND JILL CAME TUMBLING AFTER<br />
<br />
Oh, the grand old Duke of York<br />
He had ten thousand men<br />
<br />
He marched them<br />
up to the top of the hill<br />
<br />
And he marched them<br />
down again<br />
<br />
Humpty Dumpty sat on the wall<br />
<br />
Humpty Dumpty had a great fall<br />
<br />
All the king's horses<br />
and all the king's men<br />
<br />
Couldn't put Humpty<br />
together again.<br />
<br />
Want to go walkies?<br />
<br />
Wash and dress quickly -<br />
I'll show you some nice things.<br />
<br />
Walkies.<br />
<br />
This is it.<br />
<br />
For better or worse, who knows?<br />
<br />
One teeny-weeny week, my boy.<br />
<br />
Neither of us can leave.<br />
<br />
Till death do us part -<br />
and I brought it on myself.<br />
<br />
Who knows?<br />
<br />
Come ahead, son. Let's see<br />
what's in that noddle of yours.<br />
<br />
"All the world's a stage, and all<br />
the men and women merely players.<br />
<br />
They have their exits<br />
and their entrances.<br />
<br />
And one man in his time<br />
plays many parts...<br />
<br />
His acts being seven ages."<br />
<br />
(Piercing whine)<br />
<br />
William Shakespeare.<br />
<br />
He summed it all up... so they say.<br />
<br />
"At first the infant, mewling and<br />
puking in the nurse's arms."<br />
<br />
Be still!<br />
<br />
Even as a child, there's something<br />
in your brain that's a puzzlement.<br />
<br />
I intend to discover it.<br />
<br />
A - Find missing link.<br />
<br />
When I have found it, I will refine<br />
it and YOU will play our game.<br />
<br />
B - Put it together.<br />
<br />
If I fail, then...<br />
<br />
I'm your father.<br />
<br />
Do I say anything that makes<br />
you want to hate me?<br />
<br />
We're going for a walk, aren't we?<br />
<br />
Into the park, isn't it?<br />
<br />
I always speak well of your mother,<br />
don't I?<br />
<br />
(Sounds of playground)<br />
<br />
Seesaw Margery Daw<br />
<br />
Jacky shall have a new master<br />
<br />
- Seesaw.<br />
- Margery Daw.<br />
<br />
- Jacky...<br />
- Shall have...<br />
<br />
- ...a new master.<br />
- A new master.<br />
<br />
- Master.<br />
- Jacky.<br />
<br />
- Master! Master!<br />
- Jacky! Jacky!<br />
<br />
- Master! Master!<br />
- Mother! Father!<br />
<br />
Brother.<br />
<br />
Friends.<br />
<br />
Brother... Brother... Brother?<br />
<br />
- Friends.<br />
- Friends...<br />
<br />
- Push.<br />
- Friends.<br />
<br />
Friends... Push.<br />
<br />
- Push.<br />
- School.<br />
<br />
- School.<br />
- School.<br />
<br />
Creeping... like snails...<br />
<br />
(Dance music)<br />
<br />
Unwillingly... to school...<br />
<br />
School... School...<br />
<br />
School... School... School...<br />
<br />
Report to my study<br />
in the morning break.<br />
<br />
(Plays organ)<br />
<br />
(Knock on door)<br />
<br />
Come in!<br />
<br />
- Take off your hat in my presence.<br />
- Sorry, sir.<br />
<br />
- You were talking in class.<br />
- No, sir.<br />
<br />
- You refuse to admit it.<br />
- I wasn't.<br />
<br />
- You know who was?<br />
- Yes, sir.<br />
<br />
Who was it?<br />
<br />
It's nine days since the incident,<br />
you've been here every morning<br />
<br />
and still refuse to co-operate.<br />
<br />
Today is your last chance!<br />
<br />
- It wasn't you?<br />
- No.<br />
<br />
- You know who it was?<br />
- Yes.<br />
<br />
Who was it?<br />
<br />
- That is cowardice!<br />
- That's honour.<br />
<br />
- We don't discuss that.<br />
- You should teach it.<br />
<br />
- You're a fool!<br />
- Yes, sir. Not a rat.<br />
<br />
- Rat?<br />
- Rat.<br />
<br />
- I'M A RAT?<br />
- No, sir. I'm a fool, not a rat.<br />
<br />
- Society...<br />
- Yes, sir?<br />
<br />
Society is a place<br />
where people exist together.<br />
<br />
- Yes, sir.<br />
- That is civilisation.<br />
<br />
The lone wolf belongs<br />
to the wilderness.<br />
<br />
- Yes, sir.<br />
- You must not be a lone wolf!<br />
<br />
- No, sir.<br />
- You must conform!<br />
<br />
- Yes, sir.<br />
- It is my duty to see that you do!<br />
<br />
Yes, sir.<br />
<br />
You will take six.<br />
<br />
- Six?<br />
- Of the best.<br />
<br />
- I'm not guilty, sir.<br />
- 1 0!<br />
<br />
- 1 2.<br />
- What?<br />
<br />
1 2, sir... so that I can remember.<br />
<br />
(Fanfare)<br />
<br />
And so we come to another<br />
graduation day.<br />
<br />
A joyous moment for any boy.<br />
Especially for our prize pupil.<br />
<br />
As we launch him<br />
into the rapids of adulthood,<br />
<br />
we look back at the ups and downs<br />
of his childhood,<br />
<br />
and view with some satisfaction<br />
<br />
the fine specimen<br />
you see before you now.<br />
<br />
- Have you anything to say?<br />
- Nothing, sir.<br />
<br />
Nothing? Nothing at all?<br />
<br />
Thank you for everything, sir.<br />
<br />
Congratulations, my boy!<br />
<br />
You will do well.<br />
We are proud of you.<br />
<br />
Proud that you have learnt to manage<br />
your rebellious spirit<br />
<br />
and that your obedience is absolute.<br />
<br />
- Why did you resign?<br />
- What's that, sir?<br />
<br />
Oh, come along, boy!<br />
<br />
Why did you resign?<br />
<br />
From what, sir?<br />
<br />
Now, my boy, you know perfectly well<br />
what I'm talking about.<br />
<br />
- Why did you resign?<br />
- I can't tell you.<br />
<br />
- Was it secret...<br />
- Secret, sir?<br />
<br />
- And confidential?<br />
- No, sir.<br />
<br />
- Top secret?<br />
- No, sir.<br />
<br />
- Top secret!<br />
- State secret.<br />
<br />
- Yes!<br />
- State secret, sir.<br />
<br />
TOP, STATE SECRET!<br />
WHY, WHY, WHY DID YOU RESIGN?<br />
<br />
NOOO! NOOO!<br />
<br />
All right, boy. Leave school, boy.<br />
<br />
Just tell me... No more school.<br />
<br />
- TELL ME, WHY DID YOU RESIGN?<br />
- NO!<br />
<br />
(Number Six) STATE... STATE...<br />
<br />
STATE... CONFIDENTIAL... SECRET!<br />
<br />
I'm beginning to like him.<br />
<br />
(Number Two)<br />
A, B, C, D, E... Say them.<br />
<br />
One, two, three, four, five.<br />
<br />
- (Number Two) Six, six, six...<br />
- (Number Six) Five, five, five...<br />
<br />
- Six! Six!<br />
- Five! Five!<br />
<br />
- Six of one... six of one...<br />
- Five... five... five...<br />
<br />
- Six of one, six of one...<br />
- Five, five, five...<br />
<br />
Six of one,<br />
half a dozen of the other!<br />
<br />
- Pop goes the weasel.<br />
- Pop!<br />
<br />
- Pop... pop<br />
- Pop... pop, pop.<br />
<br />
- Pop, pop!<br />
- Pop, pop!<br />
<br />
- Pop protect!<br />
- Protect?<br />
<br />
Protect pop. Pop protect!<br />
<br />
(Number Two) Protect other people.<br />
People's own protection.<br />
<br />
- Protect other pop...<br />
- Protect other people! Why? Why?<br />
<br />
- WHY? WHY? WHY?<br />
- POP! POP! POP!<br />
<br />
- Why? WHY?<br />
- Pop, Pop, pop goes the weasel.<br />
<br />
- Half a pound of tuppenny rice<br />
- WHY? WHY? WHY?<br />
<br />
Pop goes the weasel...<br />
Half a pound of pop, pop, pop.<br />
<br />
- Why, pop? Why, pop?<br />
- Pop? Pop? Pop?<br />
<br />
- WHY?<br />
- Pop...<br />
<br />
- Pop.<br />
- Pop.<br />
<br />
Not too much swing.<br />
Keep down, keep it short!<br />
<br />
Again! Again! Again!<br />
<br />
(Crowd noise)<br />
<br />
Good boy. Hit me!<br />
<br />
- Like this?<br />
- Too much swing, boy.<br />
<br />
Swings are for kids, boy.<br />
<br />
Hit me with your right, boy. Hit me!<br />
<br />
Hook! Hook! Hook! Hook! Hook!<br />
<br />
Good! That's it, boy!<br />
Keep your left up or I'll kill you!<br />
<br />
I'll kill you, boy. Hit me! Hit me!<br />
<br />
(Bell)<br />
<br />
Take it easy! You're the champ, boy!<br />
I made you.<br />
<br />
You're the champ, boy.<br />
The champ!<br />
<br />
Pop...<br />
<br />
Pop... Pop...<br />
<br />
Pop goes the weasel.<br />
<br />
That's it, boy. Tell me, boy.<br />
<br />
Tell me, boy,<br />
why... did... you... resign, boy?<br />
<br />
Tell me, son.<br />
<br />
You're the champ, boy.<br />
<br />
The champ!<br />
<br />
Tell me! Boy...<br />
<br />
Tell me, son,<br />
<br />
Why... did... you... resign, boy?<br />
<br />
That's my boy! That's my boy!<br />
<br />
Touché! Light and easy.<br />
No muscle, just finesse.<br />
<br />
Good. Nice and easy.<br />
<br />
Good, but you ran. Mustn't run,<br />
young man. Don't hit and run.<br />
<br />
Don't treat it as a game, young man.<br />
<br />
The champ!<br />
<br />
Kill, kill, kill!<br />
<br />
Now... KILL!<br />
<br />
Afraid to prove you're a man?<br />
<br />
Your resignation was<br />
cowardice, wasn't it?<br />
<br />
(Yells)<br />
<br />
Kill!<br />
<br />
You can do it all, boy.<br />
You're a one-man band.<br />
<br />
You won't step over the threshold,<br />
because you're scared. Go on, kill.<br />
<br />
(Yells)<br />
<br />
You missed, boy.<br />
<br />
You still can't do it.<br />
<br />
I'm sorry. I'm sorry...<br />
<br />
Sorry? You're sorry for everybody.<br />
<br />
Is that why you resigned?<br />
<br />
I like it here. Always use it<br />
for interviews. Nice and quiet.<br />
<br />
I'm considerably impressed.<br />
<br />
Naturally, I shall have to<br />
discuss with my directors,<br />
<br />
but you seem admirably suited.<br />
<br />
Just bring matters up to date -<br />
why, exactly, do you want this job?<br />
<br />
It's a job?<br />
<br />
You have no respect for tradition,<br />
for an established firm of bankers.<br />
<br />
- I was good at mathematics.<br />
- So were we all.<br />
<br />
I mean I can work. I don't care.<br />
<br />
- Why?<br />
- It's the way I'm made.<br />
<br />
Oh, excellent!<br />
<br />
- Are you ready? Come on, come on.<br />
- Ready for what?<br />
<br />
Hurry up! Hurry up! You are<br />
to meet our managing director.<br />
<br />
RIGHT AWAY!<br />
<br />
(Number Two) It's approved<br />
and passed into the minutes.<br />
<br />
- Yes, sir, I'd like a job.<br />
- You have it.<br />
<br />
Thank you.<br />
<br />
Just a minute!<br />
<br />
Close the door.<br />
<br />
Come here...<br />
<br />
Come here.<br />
<br />
Come here...<br />
<br />
Just, um... just one slight matter.<br />
<br />
Yes?<br />
<br />
We've been watching you.<br />
<br />
- Have you?<br />
- Yeah, you're just right.<br />
<br />
- Right for here?<br />
- Of course.<br />
<br />
You don't expect your talents<br />
would be wasted?<br />
<br />
- Never.<br />
- Never. No, you're with us.<br />
<br />
- Till death do us part.<br />
- Exactly.<br />
<br />
- This is a cover.<br />
- Exactly.<br />
<br />
For?<br />
<br />
Shh... Secret.<br />
<br />
Good.<br />
<br />
- This IS a cover.<br />
- For secret...<br />
<br />
Secret work.<br />
<br />
Top secret... confidential job.<br />
<br />
Thank you.<br />
<br />
(Sound of heavy traffic)<br />
<br />
(Police siren)<br />
<br />
I'm very good. I'm no angel,<br />
but I'm good at mathematics.<br />
<br />
- Two and two?<br />
- Four.<br />
<br />
- Congratulations.<br />
- Ask the bank manager.<br />
<br />
- The manager?<br />
- He knows I'm good at figures.<br />
<br />
- How many dead?<br />
- What?<br />
<br />
- You were driving at great speed.<br />
- Yes, but nobody was hurt.<br />
<br />
In a restricted zone?<br />
<br />
- Well, I had to.<br />
- Had to?<br />
<br />
- I have the reason.<br />
- Good, good. Tell me the reason.<br />
<br />
I was on a mission,<br />
a matter of life or death.<br />
<br />
- Whose life or death?<br />
- I'm not allowed to say.<br />
<br />
- Why?<br />
- Secret business.<br />
<br />
- State confidential.<br />
- Of the highest order.<br />
<br />
- Yes!<br />
- International, state secret...<br />
<br />
- Yes, indeed!<br />
- Tell me.<br />
<br />
- Can't.<br />
- Can't?<br />
<br />
Such... bus... business...<br />
<br />
...is above the law.<br />
- Above the law?<br />
<br />
- Yes!<br />
- Tell me!<br />
<br />
- Never!<br />
- You're guilty...<br />
<br />
...of speeding on a public highway,<br />
no excuses.<br />
<br />
Ask the manager.<br />
<br />
Alternating even numbers... Test.<br />
<br />
- Test?<br />
- Alternating even numbers. Go!<br />
<br />
- Two, four...<br />
- Two. Two, four...<br />
<br />
- Four...<br />
- Six!<br />
<br />
Two... two... four...<br />
<br />
Six.<br />
<br />
Two... Two... four... FIVE!<br />
<br />
- Six! SIX!<br />
- FIVE! FIVE!<br />
<br />
Two. Four. Six.<br />
<br />
Five. That's me.<br />
<br />
Two, four, six - that's you.<br />
Six! You are six!<br />
<br />
Alternating numbers.<br />
Four, six, eight...<br />
<br />
- Guilty.<br />
- Murder on the public highways.<br />
<br />
Thinks he knows it all. Too fast.<br />
<br />
Why risk the murder of an innocent<br />
human being by speeding?<br />
<br />
I'm good at figures.<br />
<br />
(Number Two) Don't you like it?<br />
<br />
I'll work any hours of the day.<br />
<br />
Fine - 20 units.<br />
<br />
- I appeal.<br />
- What?<br />
<br />
- I appeal.<br />
- Not allowed.<br />
<br />
- I can't pay.<br />
- 20 units?<br />
<br />
- I can't pay.<br />
- Nothing?<br />
<br />
- Units aren't for me.<br />
- You're a member of The Village!<br />
<br />
- NO!<br />
- You are a unit...<br />
<br />
- NO!<br />
- ...of society.<br />
<br />
- Contempt...<br />
- No...<br />
<br />
Contempt of court.<br />
<br />
I accept the ruling. I killed.<br />
<br />
- Six days in jail.<br />
- I was rebelling.<br />
<br />
I was rebelling against the figures,<br />
my lord. I was rebelling, my lord...<br />
<br />
- Six days. Take him away.<br />
- I appeal, my lord.<br />
<br />
Six days!<br />
<br />
You're getting the same treatment<br />
as everybody else.<br />
<br />
That's why I'm going to appeal.<br />
I appeal against unfair treatment.<br />
<br />
Why? Why? Why did I resign?<br />
<br />
(Rambles madly)<br />
<br />
Why did you resign?<br />
<br />
- For peace.<br />
- For peace?<br />
<br />
Let me out.<br />
<br />
- You resigned for peace?<br />
- Let me out.<br />
<br />
You're a fool.<br />
<br />
- For peace of mind.<br />
- What?<br />
<br />
- Peace of mind!<br />
- Why?<br />
<br />
Too many people know too much.<br />
<br />
- Never.<br />
- I know too much!<br />
<br />
- Tell me.<br />
- I know too much about you.<br />
<br />
- You don't.<br />
- I do.<br />
<br />
- I know you.<br />
- Who am I?<br />
<br />
- You are an enemy.<br />
- I'm on your side.<br />
<br />
- Why did you resign?<br />
- You've been told.<br />
<br />
- Tell me again.<br />
- I know you!<br />
<br />
- You're smart.<br />
- In my mind...<br />
<br />
In my mind, YOU're smart!<br />
<br />
- Why did you resign?<br />
- You see?<br />
<br />
- Why did you resign?<br />
- Know who you are? A fool.<br />
<br />
- No, don't...<br />
- Yes! An idiot!<br />
<br />
- I'll kill you.<br />
- I'll die.<br />
<br />
You're dead.<br />
<br />
- Let me out.<br />
- Dead!<br />
<br />
Kill me.<br />
<br />
- Open it.<br />
- OPEN IT!<br />
<br />
OPEN THE DOOR!<br />
<br />
Kill...<br />
<br />
- Kill! Kill!<br />
- Get up.<br />
<br />
Kill me... lying down.<br />
<br />
- Get up, you fool.<br />
- Can't.<br />
<br />
- In the war, you killed.<br />
- Yeah.<br />
<br />
- For fun!<br />
- For peace.<br />
<br />
- Do as I say.<br />
- I do as I was told.<br />
<br />
(Number Two) Twelve seconds to zero.<br />
Stand by to release. All set?<br />
<br />
Set.<br />
<br />
- 1 1 , 1 0, 9, 8, 7, 6...<br />
- 1 1 , 1 0, 9, 8, 7...<br />
<br />
- Six? Six! Six! Six! Six! Six!<br />
- Five. Five. Five. Five! Five!<br />
<br />
Fiiiiiive!<br />
<br />
- 3, 2, 1 ...<br />
- 3, 2, 1 ...<br />
<br />
Zero... Zero, zero, zero, go, go, go.<br />
<br />
Overshot, you fool, wake up!<br />
Turn around! Let them go.<br />
<br />
- Stand by.<br />
- Standing by.<br />
<br />
Let go... now.<br />
<br />
- Bombs gone.<br />
- Good boy. Bull's-eye!<br />
<br />
We're hit! Bale out! Bale out!<br />
<br />
(Speaks German)<br />
<br />
- (Speaks German)<br />
- I do not wish to kill.<br />
<br />
(Speaks German)<br />
<br />
The aircraft was hit. I had to<br />
BALE OUT over your territory.<br />
<br />
If wasn't my fault!<br />
I cannot help baling out!<br />
<br />
(Speaks German)<br />
<br />
I have to tell you nothing.<br />
<br />
- (Speaks German)<br />
- Zero... go!<br />
<br />
- How dare you?<br />
- GO! Go, go, go, go!<br />
<br />
(Laughs) Zero... zero... go!<br />
<br />
I'm a friend. Why did you resign?<br />
I'm a friend.<br />
<br />
- Eight, eight... six?<br />
- Why?<br />
<br />
- Six?<br />
- Yeah, four.<br />
<br />
- No...<br />
- Two? One?<br />
<br />
- Zero, go?<br />
- No...<br />
<br />
I'm hungry.<br />
<br />
What would you like?<br />
<br />
Supper.<br />
<br />
You knew the only way to beat me<br />
was to gain my respect?<br />
<br />
- Correct.<br />
- Then I would confide?<br />
<br />
I hoped you'd trust me.<br />
<br />
- This is a recognised method?<br />
- Yes.<br />
<br />
The patient must trust his doctor.<br />
<br />
Sometimes they change places.<br />
<br />
Essential in extreme cases.<br />
<br />
- Also a risk...<br />
- A grave risk.<br />
<br />
...if the doctor has problems.<br />
- I have!<br />
<br />
That's why<br />
it's known as Degree Absolute.<br />
<br />
- It's you or me.<br />
- Why don't you resign?<br />
<br />
(Laughs) You're very good!<br />
<br />
You're very good at it!<br />
<br />
(Tuts)<br />
<br />
(Sad organ)<br />
<br />
- Play something cheerful.<br />
- I'd like to know more.<br />
<br />
You will, before we're through.<br />
<br />
Join me.<br />
<br />
- There we are.<br />
- Straight?<br />
<br />
1 00%.<br />
<br />
No additions?<br />
<br />
- My word of honour.<br />
- Cheers.<br />
<br />
Mind if I, er... look round?<br />
<br />
Not at all! Let me show you round!<br />
<br />
This delightful residence<br />
is known as the embryo room.<br />
<br />
In it... you can relive...<br />
from the cradle... to the grave.<br />
<br />
Seven ages of man -<br />
William Shakespeare.<br />
<br />
"Last scene of all,<br />
<br />
That ends this<br />
strange eventful history,<br />
<br />
Is second childishness<br />
and mere oblivion..."<br />
<br />
"Sans eyes, sans teeth,<br />
sans taste, sans everything."<br />
<br />
There's no way out<br />
until our time is up.<br />
<br />
If we solve our problems,<br />
that will be soon.<br />
<br />
Take my word for it.<br />
<br />
Naturally, I would.<br />
<br />
Let me show you... to the door!<br />
<br />
We are protected from intrusion.<br />
No one can interrupt us.<br />
<br />
Totally encased in finest steel.<br />
<br />
Behold the clock!<br />
<br />
FIVE MINUTES!<br />
<br />
Set to open on a new phase<br />
of our relationship...<br />
<br />
That is, if we're still here.<br />
<br />
- Are we likely to move?<br />
- It's possible!<br />
<br />
Somewhere nice?<br />
<br />
- Built-in bars.<br />
- Also self-contained.<br />
<br />
Kitchen, bathroom, air conditioning,<br />
food supplies for six months.<br />
<br />
You could go anywhere in it.<br />
It has a waste disposal unit.<br />
<br />
- It moves?<br />
- It's detachable.<br />
<br />
- What's behind it?<br />
- Steel, steel.<br />
<br />
(Laughs madly)<br />
<br />
- He thinks you're boss, now!<br />
- I am.<br />
<br />
I'm Number Two.<br />
I'm the boss... Open the door.<br />
<br />
- Number One is the boss.<br />
- NO!<br />
<br />
- Three minutes. You're scared.<br />
- No!<br />
<br />
- Take it.<br />
- FOOL! (Kicks door)<br />
<br />
Yes, a fool... not a rat.<br />
<br />
- YOU're scared!<br />
- Want me to come in?<br />
<br />
- Keep out!<br />
- Let you out?<br />
<br />
- Stay...<br />
- Want to come out?<br />
<br />
- Keep out!<br />
- You're mine.<br />
<br />
- STOP HIM!<br />
- Two minutes...<br />
<br />
- Stop him!<br />
- Two minutes.<br />
<br />
- You're free.<br />
- No, I'm Number Two.<br />
<br />
- You are number nothing.<br />
- I'm Number Two!<br />
<br />
One minute, thirty-five seconds.<br />
<br />
- Why did you resign?<br />
- I didn't accept. Why did you?<br />
<br />
You resigned.<br />
You accepted before you resigned!<br />
<br />
- I rejected... you!<br />
- Why me?<br />
<br />
- You're big.<br />
- Not tall.<br />
<br />
- Humpty dumpty...<br />
- All the king's horses...<br />
<br />
- All the king's MEN...<br />
- Yes.<br />
<br />
...couldn't put Humpty together again.<br />
<br />
Who? What?<br />
(Ticking)<br />
<br />
One minute to go...<br />
<br />
59 seconds...<br />
<br />
- 58 seconds.<br />
- I'm big!<br />
<br />
57, 56, 55, 54, 53...<br />
<br />
- You're for me.<br />
- 52, 51 ...<br />
<br />
50, 49, 48,<br />
<br />
- Why?<br />
- 47, 46...<br />
<br />
- Why resign? Tell me!<br />
- 45, 44...<br />
<br />
- Trust me.<br />
- 43, 42, 41 ...<br />
<br />
- 40, 39, 38, 37...<br />
- I'll tell.<br />
<br />
- Still time!<br />
- 36...<br />
<br />
(Ticking)<br />
<br />
- 35.<br />
- Still time!<br />
<br />
- Not too late!<br />
- For me?<br />
<br />
- For me!<br />
- You snivel and grovel.<br />
<br />
- I ask.<br />
- You crawl.<br />
<br />
- Yes.<br />
- To ask?<br />
<br />
Why?<br />
<br />
Ask on.<br />
<br />
Ask yourself!<br />
<br />
- Why? Why?<br />
- 1 5.<br />
<br />
Please.<br />
<br />
Don't say please.<br />
<br />
- I say it!<br />
- Don't.<br />
<br />
Please, I plead!<br />
<br />
- Nine.<br />
- Too late.<br />
<br />
- Eight.<br />
- Seven.<br />
<br />
- Six.<br />
- Six...<br />
<br />
- Die, six!<br />
- Five... (Fast heartbeat)<br />
<br />
- Die. Die!<br />
- Four...<br />
<br />
- Die. Die.<br />
- Three...<br />
<br />
- Die!<br />
- Two...<br />
<br />
- Die!<br />
- One...<br />
<br />
- Die! Die!<br />
- The end...<br />
<br />
(Heartbeat stops)<br />
<br />
Congratulations.<br />
<br />
We'll need the body for evidence.<br />
<br />
What do you desire?<br />
<br />
- Number One.<br />
- I'll take you.<br />
<br />
("Twinkle, Twinkle,<br />
Little Star" plays)<br />
<br />
Video & subs brought to you<br />
by Sekhmet<br />
Mail: sekhmetouserapis_at_gmail.com<br />
<br />
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Have any questions? Contact us: subslikescript(doggysign)gmail.com | DMCAMarty Fugatehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05077693961075517845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-345052541839184472.post-52404748060910275192020-03-25T17:34:00.002-07:002020-03-25T17:39:04.933-07:00Viral Marketing 101<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PwpAWZwn7_E/Xnv4y5VAYbI/AAAAAAAAIVQ/IKuaCQa191UiZ_GOfW314lu8pXhcoMASACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/TrumpPostcard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1077" data-original-width="1600" height="430" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PwpAWZwn7_E/Xnv4y5VAYbI/AAAAAAAAIVQ/IKuaCQa191UiZ_GOfW314lu8pXhcoMASACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/TrumpPostcard.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Oh, look! There’s something in the mail! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">What could it be? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Why it's ...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">"PRESIDENT TRUMP’S CORONAVIRUS GUIDELINES FOR AMERICA."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">How reassuring!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Imagine …</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">"PRESIDENT CLINTON'S CORONAVIRUS GUIDELINES FOR AMERICA."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Or …</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">"PRESIDENT OBAMA’S CORONAVIRUS GUIDELINES FOR AMERICA."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Or …</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">"PRESIDENT McCAIN’S CORONAVIRUS GUIDELINES FOR AMERICA."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Or …</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">President Nixon or President Reagan or President Bush or President Schwarzenegger or any other American president (real or hypothetical, left-wing or right) slapping their name on a CORONAVIRUS GUIDELINES FOR AMERICA.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">You can’t. It’s unimaginable.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Pandemic self-promotion?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It just isn’t done. No other president would do it. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Except for this one.</span>Marty Fugatehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05077693961075517845noreply@blogger.com0