{"id":108,"date":"2009-12-27T17:54:57","date_gmt":"2009-12-27T21:54:57","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/leahyinstitute.org\/?page_id=108"},"modified":"2010-09-02T13:31:09","modified_gmt":"2010-09-02T17:31:09","slug":"the-convention-of-the-gods","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/leahyinstitute.org\/?page_id=108","title":{"rendered":"The Convention of the Gods"},"content":{"rendered":"

The Convention of the Gods – 1987<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

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The Convention of the Gods<\/strong><\/p>\n

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A one act play<\/strong><\/p>\n

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By<\/strong><\/p>\n

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\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

John E. Leahy<\/strong>
\n<\/strong><\/p>\n

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The Convention of the Gods<\/strong><\/p>\n

SCENE 1
\n<\/strong><\/p>\n

Barracks style, spartan wooden beams, long wood tables, benches. Sign over door proclaims \u201cThe Mess Hall of the Gods\u201d. Platters of food and bottles and pitchers of drink are on table, along with metal plates and pewter goblets. Some upturned bottles and goblets are on tables and floor. Siren, or work whistle blows a piercing, shrill blast. All hell breaks loose. The gods run in frantically from all sides. They are shouting, clutching and punching each other, in a mad frenzy to get seats at the benches. The gods are wearing combat boots, punk sunglasses, sleeveless undershirts, and fatigues. The feast of the gods begins with slurping, sloshing, gnashing, and fighting over chicken drum sticks. One god at the head of the table stands up, bangs his mug on the table and screams:<\/p>\n

Nylon\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 I am Nylon, God of Neither Organic Nor Inorganic! With this feast, I proclaim the commencement of the Convention of the Gods.<\/p>\n

Rayon\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Salt! There is never enough salt. Did somebody find salt?<\/p>\n

Phlegm\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Ha! Rayon, you fool. You have entire planets made out of nothing but salt and you keep losing them. If you had any real responsibility you\u2019d be dangerous. (Fills mug from pitcher<\/em>.) I say, Lucid, I heard you\u2019ve started a new universe. How\u2019s it going?<\/p>\n

Lucid\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Ha. You should see it. I made these creatures that reproduce themselves with one gender but I also gave them heterosexual desire. I\u2019ve got the little bastards running around like mad all their lives. (Waving bone in air<\/em>) If you get bored with your little fools and want a good laugh, come on over and observe. I can watch them for hundreds of years at a time and never be bored. (Wipes grease off chin<\/em>.)<\/p>\n

Tom\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 That\u2019s nothing. I made a universe that has no mathematics.<\/p>\n

Phlegm\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Tom, you\u2019re a genius. How\u2019d you do it.<\/p>\n

Tom\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 It was easy. I was drunk when I made it and I just forgot to put it in. You should see the components trying to react with each other. There are no rules for them and nothing even to make rules with.<\/p>\n

Lucid\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Phlegm, where\u2019s our favorite mascot? I don\u2019t see him.<\/p>\n

Phlegm\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 He\u2019s outside. Wait, I\u2019ll get him. (Bellows<\/em>) Hey Porcupine! Get in here. (Jumps up and runs out. Comes back dragging Porcupine by the shoulder. Porcupine is preoccupied, staring at something in his hand. He is mostly bald, old, drooling, and slurping his saliva. His hands shake. He is wearing a ragged and dirty cape<\/em>.)<\/p>\n

Lucid\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Hey Porcupine. What are they calling you on your planet Earth these days? Allah? Jehovah? Vishnu? Thor?<\/p>\n

Porcupine\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Heh! Heh! Heh! (Plays myopically with small object in front of his eyes<\/em>) Heh! Heh! Heh! Heh!<\/p>\n

Lucid\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Hey Porcupine. Earth! Remember?<\/p>\n

Porcupine\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Looks up<\/em>) Earth. Ah. (Looks in cape under arm, then behind him, turns full circle and is fooling with small object in front of his eyes again<\/em>) Heh! Heh! Heh!<\/p>\n

Phlegm\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Leave that shit alone, you idiot! (Smacks object out of Porcupine\u2019s hands. A god at the table notices out of the corner of his eye and dives on the object and devours it. Porcupine watches in horror for a moment then forgets about it. He spaces out<\/em>.)<\/p>\n

Lucid\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Phlegm, wake him up.<\/p>\n

Phlegm\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Shakes Porcupine<\/em>) Wake up, you hopeless cretin! How\u2019s Earth? Earth!<\/p>\n

Porcupine\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Earth? (Look of recognition passes over his face<\/em>.) Earth. Heh! Heh! (Passes one hand into pants and starts rubbing crotch. His eyes bulge then glaze over. He spaces out rubbing his crotch<\/em>.)<\/p>\n

Lucid\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Smacks Porcupine\u2019s hand away<\/em>) You filthy pig! You\u2019re worse than some of the creatures in my twisted galaxy.<\/p>\n

Phlegm\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Yeah, get out of here, you scum! (Pushes Porcupine who falls down and sits on floor. He puts his hand back in his pants and rubs his crotch, then he falls backwards and lies on his back, playing with himself<\/em>.) What a useless halfwit!<\/p>\n

Rayon\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Salt! Give me salt! (Starts grabbing a neighbor\u2019s plate. They roll onto floor. Rayon finally gets on top and strangles the other god to death. Then he jumps up and licks his plate<\/em>.)<\/p>\n

(Loud siren sounds<\/em>)<\/p>\n

Phlegm\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Jumps up<\/em>) The time! (Runs out. Comes running back in holding big clock<\/em>.) Damn! I forgot!<\/p>\n

Lucid\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 I\u2019m sick and tired of time. (Grabs clock from Phlegm and smashes it on the ground.<\/em>) Events always following in each other in chronological order. Never any change in the process. It\u2019s bullshit, I tell you!<\/p>\n

Phlegm\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 But that was my fourth dimension! (Despairing<\/em>)<\/p>\n

Lucid\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Fuck all dimensions!<\/p>\n

Tom\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 And fuck all matter and energy!<\/p>\n

Lucid\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 I spit on them. (He spits)<\/p>\n

(Gong sounds. Nylon gets up<\/em>)<\/p>\n

Nylon\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Attention! Attention! (After hubbub subsides<\/em>) A few announcements of general interest.<\/p>\n

Item number 1: Skip was walking home drunk after a meeting with some of the other gods and passed out in the gutter. This event would be insignificant except for the fact that he also lost his universe. (Cheers and guffaws<\/em>.) If anyone finds it, please return it to the Bureau of Misplaced Universes.<\/p>\n

Item number 2: Rufus passed away recently by drowning in the bathtub. He is survived by two universes which will be raffled off later. (Chorus of boo\u2019s and one god calls out<\/em>.)<\/p>\n

1 god\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Let them go untended!<\/p>\n

2nd<\/sup> god\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Yeah, fuck \u2018em!<\/p>\n

Nylon\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Order! Order!<\/p>\n

Tom\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Bullshit! Let\u2019s eat!<\/p>\n

(Everybody cheers and dives into food in orgiastic frenzy. Siren sounds. Lights out<\/em>.)<\/p>\n

END SCENE 1<\/strong><\/p>\n

SCENE 2<\/strong><\/p>\n

Set is quite dark. Nighttime. A few stars, a few rocks, desert. A man slowly crawls out from behind a boulder. He is very timid and clutches to the rock, looking around him as if afraid of attack. He slowly and cautiously explores the stage and returns to the center, cringing and looking up at the stars with his arms wrapped around himself. Then he leans back and howls like a wolf, two or three times. Pause. Howls again, mournfully tailing off. Pause. He crawls back fearfully to the rock and sleeps in a fetal position.<\/p>\n

END SCENE 2<\/strong><\/p>\n

SCENE 3<\/strong><\/p>\n

Daytime, outside, people are down on their knees and bowed over to the sun. Herman the Hero stomps in. Herman the Hero is big, muscular and dressed like a Gothic warrior\u00a0with armor, sword and spear. He is dirty and tired after traveling. He stands in the middle of the groveling worshippers.<\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Is anybody awake here? (Pause. No response. People continue groveling and worshipping.<\/em>) Is anybody going to answer me? (Pause<\/em>) What the hell are you people doing here, offering your asses to the moon and your heads to the sun? (Pause, no response<\/em>.) You! (Kicks one worshipper in the ribs<\/em>.) Get up you fool! (Worshipper clutches ribs in pain but remains in position. Herman the Hero kicks him again<\/em>.) Get up I said! Don\u2019t you have any pride? Look at what you\u2019re doing. Groveling like a snake on his belly. Hear me, you undignified wretches. I am Herman the Hero, and I kneel down before nothing. (Old man rises from front<\/em>.)<\/p>\n

Old Man\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 We hear you, impudent puppy. Have you no respect? We are worshipping the sun god who was kind and gave us warmth and food. (All the people are looking timidly but with horrified curiosity at Herman the Hero<\/em>.)<\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The gods gave you nothing. Everything you have is made by the sweat of man. Stand up. Pay homage to nobody.<\/p>\n

Old Man\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Quiet! What you say is heresy. The gods will punish you and strike you down.<\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Ha! I will strike the gods down and run them through on my spear.<\/p>\n

Old Man\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (To the people<\/em>.) He is mad. Carry on. Prepare the offering.<\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What offering?<\/p>\n

Old Man\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 We offer one part of our food and wine to the sun to please him so he will be kind and give us food again.<\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Why don\u2019t you just eat the food.<\/p>\n

Old Man\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 No. We must leave it.<\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Why?<\/p>\n

Old Man\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 It is written in the old books.<\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 And who wrote the old books? Other idiots like you who knew nothing and were afraid of everything.<\/p>\n

Old Man\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (To the people<\/em>.) This man is crazy. Leave the offering and let us go home.<\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What do you think happens to the food?<\/p>\n

Old Man\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The sun god comes and eats it. It is always gone the next day.<\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The birds and the wild dogs eat it. And today I will eat it for I am hungry.<\/p>\n

Old Man\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Come. Let us go home quickly. It is dangerous to talk to this crazy man. (People leave food and wine and exit<\/em>.)<\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Sits down on rock<\/em>.) Fools! They are afraid to do anything and even afraid to think. (Enter Girl. Girl is carrying food. She is about 20 years old, pretty<\/em>.) So, have you come to talk to the crazy man?<\/p>\n

Girl\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Everyone is afraid of you. They say you will bring the wrath of the gods.<\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 I will kill all the gods!<\/p>\n

Girl\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 You mustn\u2019t say that! Aren\u2019t you afraid of the gods?<\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 I am afraid of nothing. I am alone. I fight alone. I exist for no reason and never asked to exist. And I fear no gods and kneel down before nothing.<\/p>\n

Girl\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 You are very brave, but I am afraid for you. The people say you will die and anybody with you will die.<\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 If that is true then why are you here?<\/p>\n

Girl\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 You will need some food, so that you don\u2019t have to eat the offering.<\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 You are kind and you are brave also to come here.<\/p>\n

Girl\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 No. I am afraid. (Herman the Hero grabs bread and begins to eat. Girl is standing in front of him, watching him devour the bread<\/em>.) Is there something else you need?<\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Puts down bread, looks at Girl, then leans forward and puts hands on her waist<\/em>.) You are beautiful. I like you. Your body is beautiful. I want to touch it.<\/p>\n

Girl\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Steps back out of his hands<\/em>.) No. I am afraid of you.<\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Looks at her, disappointed, for a moment then shrugs his head and picks up bread again<\/em>.) You people know nothing but fear. (Eats. Pause<\/em>.)<\/p>\n

Girl\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Do you really want to kill the gods?<\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Yes.<\/p>\n

Girl\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Why?<\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 If the gods make us exist for no reason or purpose, they should at least let us live in peace. But they pester us and molest us. They kill us with drought, famine, storms and disease. They took away my father, my mother, my brothers, my whole family with plague and floods. For this the gods shall pay. I will never forgive them and I will kill them all for it.<\/p>\n

Girl\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What happened to your family is very sad. But I don\u2019t think you can kill the gods.<\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 I will find them and they will die. And now I must go. (Gets up. Stands in front of Girl and puts hand on her cheek. Then he turns from her and exits. She looks after him for a moment and then slowly follows<\/em>.)<\/p>\n

END SCENE 3<\/strong><\/p>\n

SCENE 4<\/strong><\/p>\n

Heavy organ music. Dimly lit. Light fog. Porcupine shuffles on stage, playing with marionettes and cackling feeble mindedly. Suddenly he spaces out and drops the marionettes. Then he reaches into his pocket and pulls out a cheap cigarette lighter. He stares at it, puzzled, for a moment, then flicks the lighter. The flame goes out. Pause. He flicks it again. Pause. He repeatedly flicks the lighter on and off, staring at it in happy amazement and cackling like a chicken. Enter Tom.<\/p>\n

Tom\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Hello Porcupine, my friend.<\/p>\n

Porcupine\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Without taking his eyes off the flashing lighter, he answers him with demented speech<\/em>.) Hi Tom.<\/p>\n

Tom\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 How\u2019s your Earth doing?<\/p>\n

Porcupine\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Still flicking and staring at the lighter<\/em>) Gosh, I don\u2019t know, Tom<\/p>\n

Tom\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Do you mind if we take a look?<\/p>\n

Porcupine\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Sure, Tom. (They bend over, looking down. Porcupine points downwards.<\/em>) There it is. (Pause<\/em>)<\/p>\n

Tom\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Hey look! They\u2019re praying to you.<\/p>\n

Porcupine\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Yeah. Uh huh. (Pause. Porcupine straightens up. He looks off into space for a moment and then flicks the cigarette lighter and stares at it with fascination again. He slowly turns away and shuffles offstage, staring at the lighter. Tom stares after him, laughing incredulously. Enter Phlegm<\/em>.)<\/p>\n

Tom\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Ho Phlegm.<\/p>\n

Phlegm\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Hello Tom. What are you doing here?<\/p>\n

Tom\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 I was talking to Porcupine. We looked down at his Earth and they were praying to him. He just turned around and walked away.<\/p>\n

Phlegm\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Ha! Ha! Ha! What an imbecile! Do they ever pray to you in your universe?<\/p>\n

Tom\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Are you kidding? With no mathematics they\u2019re so lost they can\u2019t do anything. How about you?<\/p>\n

Phlegm\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Sure. The pathetic little twits are bugging me with it all the time. You want to take a look?<\/p>\n

Tom\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Why not?<\/p>\n

Plegm\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 OK. (They bend over and look down<\/em>.) Let\u2019s see. They should be doing it somewhere now. (Pause<\/em>) There! You see?<\/p>\n

Tom\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Huh? Oh yeah. I see them.<\/p>\n

Phlegm\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Ha! Ha! Look at them go at it. Aren\u2019t they disgusting? God, how I hate the little bastards.<\/p>\n

Tom\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Yeah, they make you want to puke.<\/p>\n

Phlegm\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Let\u2019s fix their asses good. Watch this. Just one thunderbolt. (Shakes his hand violently downwards<\/em>.)<\/p>\n

Tom\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Bull\u2019s eye! (They both start laughing hysterically<\/em>.)<\/p>\n

Phlegm\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 I got them good, didn\u2019t I?<\/p>\n

Tom\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Ah, Phlegm. (laughing so hard that he is staggering<\/em>.) You\u2019re too much.<\/p>\n

Phlegm\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 That was great! Come on. Let\u2019s go drink. (They exit<\/em>)<\/p>\n

END SCENE 4<\/h3>\n

SCENE 5<\/h4>\n

Nighttime, barren desert with rocks. Man slowly crawls out from behind a rock. He is fearful and cautious. He looks around. Then he explores the stage and returns to the center. He wraps his arms around himself and huddles. The he begins wolf howl. Mournful and plaintive. He pauses. Then he repeats the wolf howl. He pauses again. Suddenly he hears another howl answering him in the distance. He sits upright, tensely listening. Now nothing. Silence again. He howls again and listens expectantly. The howl answers again. He slowly sits down in wonderment. He thinks. Finally, he stretches, looks around, and goes to sleep in the fetal position beside the big rock.<\/p>\n

END SCENE 5<\/strong><\/p>\n

SCENE 6<\/strong><\/p>\n

People are sitting bent over with their hands together behind their necks. They are sitting in front of the Big Circle, which is upright on the ground. Enter Herman the Hero and Girl from behind. Herman the Hero stands in the middle of the people and looks disdainfully at them. Then he goes over to the Big Circle, peers at it closely for a moment, and then kicks it over into the dust.<\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Get up, you stupid people! Stop wasting your time with this piece of wood.<\/p>\n

People 1\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What have you done?!<\/p>\n

People 2\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Heretic!<\/p>\n

People 3\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 That\u2019s the Sacred Circle. The soul of god passed through it on the way to paradise. We too must pass through the Sacred Circle to reach paradise after our suffering here is through.<\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Ha! You fools. You\u2019re lucky if your god uses your sacred circle as a target to piss at.<\/p>\n

People 1\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Holding the Big Circle<\/em>.) Look! He has broken the Sacred Circle!<\/p>\n

People 2\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Kill the heretic!<\/p>\n

People 3\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Kill him! (They attack Herman the Hero, but Herman the Hero charges them with his spear and chases them off screaming. Herman the Hero comes back laughing. Girl is crouched down, covering her head and crying.<\/em>)<\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Ha. Chicken shit weaklings! I am Herman the Hero. I can kill all of them and all their stupid gods too. (Sees Girl crying<\/em>.) What is this? Why are you crying, Girl?<\/p>\n

Girl\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 You shouldn\u2019t frighten these people and mock their gods. They have nothing else.<\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Angrily<\/em>) Bah. They are spineless trash. Their sacred circle is nothing more than firewood. Go find us some food. (She obediently goes off. Herman the Hero sits down. Girl returns.<\/em>)<\/p>\n

Girl\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Here is food. (Herman the Hero takes some food, then puts it down<\/em>.)<\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 I feel good. I feel strong. Come here, Girl. (Girl comes cautiously and fearfully. Herman the Hero grabs her by the waist and pulls her to him. He kisses her stomach<\/em>.) Your body is beautiful. I want it now!<\/p>\n

Girl\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Pushes him away and retreats<\/em>.) No. I am afraid of you.<\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Shakes his head, sighs, picks up some food and throws her some<\/em>.) Here. Eat. I will take care of you. (They eat. She eyes him uncertainly. He gnaws his food with concentration. Then pauses and looks at her<\/em>.) Why are you here?<\/p>\n

Girl\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 I am following you.<\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Why?<\/p>\n

Girl\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 You are very brave and I\u2019m afraid you will die.<\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Enraged<\/em>) Die! I am Herman the Hero! My enemies die, not me. (Girl doesn\u2019t answer<\/em>.) Do you hear me? (He grabs her face and turns it up to him.<\/em>) I will go kill all the gods and I\u2019ll bring back their scalps for you. (He lets go of her face and starts eating again, very happy with himself. She watches him sadly.<\/em>)<\/p>\n

Girl\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 I will ask the gods to be merciful to you. (Herman the Hero smacks her sharply with a backhand. She stays crouched over and makes no sound<\/em>.)<\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Don\u2019t bother me with your stupid gods. They will need my mercy. Don\u2019t you understand? Why do I waste my time with you. You\u2019re a weakling like all the others. (Herman the Hero stands up and exits. Girl picks up the food and follows him.)<\/p>\n

END SCENE 6<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

SCENE 7<\/strong><\/p>\n

In the middle of the galaxy. Stars are swirling all around. Spacey music (Steve Miller- In My First Mind from Children of the Future). Middle aged man and his young adult son enter.<\/p>\n

Man\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 We are moving through the stars and through time. We don\u2019t know when the journey began or who began it, but we carry on, each generation a little further. To a destination nobody knows.<\/p>\n

Son\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Why, father?<\/p>\n

Man\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 I don\u2019t know, my son. Nobody does. We just do it. You can\u2019t fall off the stars.<\/p>\n

Son\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 I don\u2019t understand, father.<\/p>\n

Man\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 No, son. I don\u2019t either. Nobody ever has. I have nothing more to teach you.<\/p>\n

(Pause. They exit<\/em>.)<\/p>\n

END SCENE 7<\/h3>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

SCENE 8<\/strong><\/p>\n

Nighttime. Herman the Hero is sitting on a rock next to a fire (stones around a glowing light). He has roasted meat on a spit and is eating. Enter Girl. Girl stands in light of fire but does not dare come nearer.<\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Sees Girl<\/em>.) So, you are still here? (Pause<\/em>.) Come over here to the fire and eat. See, I have killed an animal for us to eat. (Girl comes and sits at fire across from Herman the Hero<\/em>.) Come over here next to me. (Girl does not move. Herman the Hero gets up and sits next to her. He grabs her face and turns it to him<\/em>.) How is your face? (He touches her cheek gently with his other hand. They look at each other for a moment<\/em>.) Here. Take some food and then rest.<\/p>\n

(Herman the Hero speaks softly to her for the first time. He gives her food and she eats. A wolf howl is heard in the distance. Girl tenses up and looks around, frightened<\/em>.)<\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Laughs<\/em>.) The wild creatures calling to each other in the darkness. They won\u2019t bother you. Herman the Hero is watching. (Pause. She eats<\/em>.) Who are you more afraid of now, the wild beasts or me?<\/p>\n

Girl\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 I am not so afraid of you now. I thought you were angry with me.<\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 I was angry with you. But that is over now. (Pause<\/em>.)<\/p>\n

Girl\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Do you still wish to kill the gods?<\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Do you think that Herman the Hero changes his mind in one day?<\/p>\n

Girl\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 I know I can say nothing to change your mind, but I wish you would forget your vengeance and stay with me.<\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Girl, I will never rest until all the gods are dead. Then I will come back to you and we will start a new world.<\/p>\n

(Herman the Hero puts his arm around her shoulder and pulls her to him. Girl leans her head on his chest. Lights out.<\/em>)<\/p>\n

END SCENE 8<\/h3>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

SCENE 9<\/strong><\/p>\n

Nighttime. A few rocks, otherwise barren. A man crawls cautiously and fearfully out from behind a rock. He looks around and explores the stage. He comes back to the center and sits, huddled with his arms wrapped around him. Then he leans back and howls like a wolf. He howls 2, 3 times, then pauses. Then a wolf howl is heard very close by. The man leaps up, all bent over, startled. Then another man enters and they both freeze upon seeing each other. Pause.<\/p>\n

1st<\/sup> man\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Was that you?<\/p>\n

2nd<\/sup> man\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Yes. I heard you calling.<\/p>\n

(The two men slowly approach each other until the are face to face. Each puts his hands on the face of the other. Then suddenly, they passionately and desperately embrace one another. The relief from the pain of solitude is written on their contorted faces. They step back with hands on shoulders or waists<\/em>.)<\/p>\n

1st<\/sup> man\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 I\u2019ve been here alone since the beginning of time. Every night looking out into the vast darkness; naked, alone, unprotected. Feeling nothing but the terror and fear of one small individual in the overwhelming void of empty, crushing eternity.<\/p>\n

2nd<\/sup> man\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 You won\u2019t be alone anymore. We will share the eternal darkness together. (They sit with arms around shoulders and look up into the night sky<\/em>.)<\/p>\n

END SCENE 9<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

SCENE 10<\/strong><\/p>\n

Porcupine is sitting on a rock. It is daytime. Barren land with rocks. Herman the Hero enters, followed by Girl.<\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 We will stop here and rest. (They sit<\/em>.) Hey old man. (Porcupine does not respond<\/em>.) Hey! Can you tell us where we are?<\/p>\n

Porcupine\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Of course, I can. I made this place.<\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Laughing<\/em>.) Then you must be like the gods.<\/p>\n

Porcupine\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Oh no. I\u2019m not like them at all.<\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 I am looking for the gods.<\/p>\n

Porcupine\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Then you must be a philosopher.<\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 No. I studied philosophy when I was younger. But I learned nothing because there is nothing to learn.<\/p>\n

Porcupine\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Chuckles to himself<\/em>.) Yes, that reminds me. I had an idea one time. (He pauses and then spaces out. Herman the Hero is looking at him and finally reaches out and shakes his knee.)<\/em><\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Hey, old man. Can you tell me where I can find the gods?<\/p>\n

Porcupine\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Points<\/em>.) Over there. They should all be in the mess hall now.<\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Very animated<\/em>.) At last my moment has come. (He jumps up with fire in his eyes<\/em>.) I will catch them all together in one spot. (To Girl<\/em>.) You stay here. I will come back for you when I am done. I go now to drink the blood of the gods. (He starts to go. Girl jumps up<\/em>.)<\/p>\n

Girl\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Wait! (Herman the Hero stops, turns and comes back to her. He puts his hand behind her head and kisses her forehead. Then he turns and quickly exits. Girl looks after him until he is gone and then looks down forlornly. She sits down and addresses Porcupine<\/em>.)<\/p>\n

Girl\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 He is going to die. (Weeps<\/em>.)<\/p>\n

Porcupine\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Nodding<\/em>.) They all do. I made a mistake.<\/p>\n

(Girl stops weeping and stoically dries her tears. She takes some food and hands some to Porcupine<\/em>.)<\/p>\n

Girl\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Here, take some bread.<\/p>\n

(Porcupine takes the bread and they eat. Suddenly Porcupine starts choking. He chokes until he dies. Girl is horror stricken<\/em>.)<\/p>\n

Girl\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 He\u2019s dead! Poor old man. He choked to death on a piece of bread. God was unkind to him. (Pause.) And I must wait here, for the man who will never return.<\/p>\n

(Lights out<\/em>.)<\/p>\n

END SCENE 10<\/strong><\/h3>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

SCENE 11<\/strong><\/p>\n

Mess Hall of the Gods as in Scene 1. The gods are noisily eating and drinking like gluttons. Enter Herman the Hero. He bangs the butt of his spear on the floor boards.<\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Yells over the din<\/em>.) Hear me, you gods! Hear me and listen to your judgement! (The gods turn and stare at Herman the Hero. some of them have food hanging out of their mouths<\/em>.) I am Herman the Hero, the executioner of the gods. No longer will men bow down to you. No longer will they thank you for your merciless crimes. I know the truth. The gods are to blame for all suffering and for this the gods shall be punished. With my hands and my sword of steel, the gods shall feel the vengeance of every creature that existed, of everything that ever suffered. And now the moment of justice has arrived!<\/p>\n

Phlegm\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (Laughing<\/em>.) Rayon, swat this miserable fly and let\u2019s get back to our feast.<\/p>\n

Tom\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 He talks well. Maybe we should stuff him and have him mounted. (The gods roar with laughter. Rayon advances on Herman the Hero, but Herman the Hero kills him with a spear thrust. The gods become alarmed and start yelling<\/em>.)<\/p>\n

Lucid\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Kill him!<\/p>\n

Phlegm\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Get the bastard!<\/p>\n

Nylon\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Get him! Chop him up!<\/p>\n

(Herman the Hero draws his sword. The gods charge him but Herman the Hero kills one after another with his sword. He kills at least a dozen. Phlegm, Lucid and Tom are amongst the survivors<\/em>.)<\/p>\n

Phlegm\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 This man is strong. Which jackass made him?<\/p>\n

(The gods again charge. Herman the Hero slaughters them one after another. Lucid runs offstage and runs back in behind Herman the Hero. Lucid is carrying a pistol. Lucid shoots Herman the Hero in the back. Herman the Hero is mortally wounded and staggers<\/em>.)<\/p>\n

Herman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 I am slain. Shot in the back by the trickery of the gods who could not stand and do battle face to face like a man. Count the corpses of the gods and know the vengeance of Herman the Hero. I die. (Herman the Hero dies<\/em>.)<\/p>\n

(The remaining gods look around them, completely stunned. Then they are outraged<\/em>.)<\/p>\n

Tom\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The filthy wretch!<\/p>\n

Nylon\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Scum!<\/p>\n

Phlegm\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The nerve of the bastards!<\/p>\n

Lucid\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 So, they\u2019re discontented, are they?<\/p>\n

Phlegm\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 We\u2019ll show those insects, won\u2019t we?! Get the dynamite! (Gods start roaring with laughter<\/em>.)<\/p>\n

Tom\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Yeah, and let\u2019s eat and drink.<\/p>\n

(The gods start eating and drinking tumultuously and ravenously, laughing hysterically, slobbering, and drooling. A god comes in carrying dynamite and a plunger. The gods hook up the dynamite<\/em>.)<\/p>\n

Phlegm\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Alright, we\u2019ll show those idiots.<\/p>\n

Tom\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Yeah, they thought they had problems before. Let them see what it\u2019s like with no gods around. (Cackling<\/em>.)<\/p>\n

Lucid\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Ha! Ha! Ha!<\/p>\n

(Tom grabs the plunger and pushes it down. Violent explosion and the mess hall is destroyed and all the gods are killed. Pause on the destroyed mess hall. Silence. Lights out<\/em>.)<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

END SCENE 11<\/strong><\/p>\n

SCENE 12<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

Daytime. Barren area with a few rocks. Girl is sitting and weeping. She gets up and comes to the front of the stage, facing the audience.)<\/p>\n

Girl\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 My wild hero has gone to meet his death. I am left here alone with no man and I am carrying his child. What will become of me? What will I do now? Where will I go? Will my child be strong enough for this godless wasteland? My child will need some of the fire that flowed in the veins of his father and blazed in his eyes, for now we know that there are no gods. My brave hero has killed them all.<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

THE END<\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

The Convention of the Gods – 1987 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 The Convention of the Gods \u00a0 \u00a0 A one act play \u00a0 \u00a0 By \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 John E. Leahy The Convention of the Gods SCENE 1 Barracks style, spartan wooden beams, long wood tables, benches. Sign over door proclaims \u201cThe Mess Hall of the […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":266,"featured_media":0,"parent":64,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-108","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/leahyinstitute.org\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/108","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/leahyinstitute.org\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/leahyinstitute.org\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/leahyinstitute.org\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/266"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/leahyinstitute.org\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=108"}],"version-history":[{"count":7,"href":"https:\/\/leahyinstitute.org\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/108\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":110,"href":"https:\/\/leahyinstitute.org\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/108\/revisions\/110"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/leahyinstitute.org\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/64"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/leahyinstitute.org\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=108"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}