A three-act play about the lives of the brightest lights of London's Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, a reactionary art movement against stuffy Victorian ideals.
Showing posts with label Edward Burne-Jones. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Edward Burne-Jones. Show all posts
Thursday, July 4, 2013
Synopsis
Based
on well-documented historical facts, The Water Willows breathes life
into the brightest lights of London's Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, a
reactionary art movement against stuffy Victorian ideals drawing
its inspiration from the more earthy medieval lore and aesthetics.
Wealthy decorator William Morris, cruelly betrayed and deeply hurt by
his painter friend and mentor Gabriel Rossetti, finds meaning in the
selfless cause of socialism and the betterment of the working class.
Meanwhile Rossetti, once a leader of the movement, slips into
paranoia, addiction and death over a single unflattering critique of
his poetry, and in doing so losing the love of the woman he
worshipped and painted over and over: William Morris' wife, Jane
Morris.
The Cast
Act 1 - Year 1881
JANEY
– W. MORRIS – ROSSETTI – GEORGIE B-J – NED B-J
We
are at Kelmscott Manor.
Janey,
Georgie and Ned are seated in a living room. Georgie and Jane are
bored playing cards in the background, Georgie is winning. Ned is
drawing a sketch. Parlour maid busies herself in and out.
GEORGIE
Janey, where is that talented daughter of yours these days?
Janey, where is that talented daughter of yours these days?
JANEY
Having reached 18 years of age now, she's attending the the South Kensington Art School.
Having reached 18 years of age now, she's attending the the South Kensington Art School.
GEORGIE
She has always been artistic. Has she chosen a special subject?
She has always been artistic. Has she chosen a special subject?
JANEY
Yes, embroidery.
Yes, embroidery.
GEORGIE
That is hardly surprising, as she has seen you threading many needles, bringing Webb's designs to life. Surely she will be first in her class. May I enquire about Jenny?
That is hardly surprising, as she has seen you threading many needles, bringing Webb's designs to life. Surely she will be first in her class. May I enquire about Jenny?
JANEY
Ah, poor Jenny is causing anxiety again, you know how our hopes rise and fall...
Ah, poor Jenny is causing anxiety again, you know how our hopes rise and fall...
GEORGIE
She is fortunate to have two parents that love her, with the means to find her the best doctors. Love and medicine; there is your hope for a cure. How is your health today? We always wonder about your health.
She is fortunate to have two parents that love her, with the means to find her the best doctors. Love and medicine; there is your hope for a cure. How is your health today? We always wonder about your health.
JANEY
Rather poor, I'm afraid, my back doesn't permit ordinary activity and my head aches, though not as acutely as it did yesterday.
Rather poor, I'm afraid, my back doesn't permit ordinary activity and my head aches, though not as acutely as it did yesterday.
GEORGIE, putting a card down
Let us hope that it improves tomorrow. Ah! I believe that's another win for me... dear, you must be distracted! You need some rest.
Let us hope that it improves tomorrow. Ah! I believe that's another win for me... dear, you must be distracted! You need some rest.
Morris
walks in with some plans
MORRIS
Ned! It's time to rouse you from rest! It will be well worth your while. Here I have your preliminary drawings for the stained glass windows in colour, I am certain you'll want to have a second look before we make them into blueprints.
Ned! It's time to rouse you from rest! It will be well worth your while. Here I have your preliminary drawings for the stained glass windows in colour, I am certain you'll want to have a second look before we make them into blueprints.
NED (putting his sketch pad down)
Let's see! What are these?
Let's see! What are these?
MORRIS
I brought some new wallpaper designs for your perusal as well, but for later. The stained glass is right here.
I brought some new wallpaper designs for your perusal as well, but for later. The stained glass is right here.
NED
This must be one of your best wallpaper, very impressive You've expressed so much with just two colors, this will be splendid on a large scale.
This must be one of your best wallpaper, very impressive You've expressed so much with just two colors, this will be splendid on a large scale.
 | |
| Did you notice the rabbit? |
MORRIS
Did you notice the rabbit?
Did you notice the rabbit?
NED
Rabbit? Where? Oh! Here! Oh my, the creature is so well integrated in the pattern you can't tell it is there! So clever! Ah, yes! The stained glass is here.
Rabbit? Where? Oh! Here! Oh my, the creature is so well integrated in the pattern you can't tell it is there! So clever! Ah, yes! The stained glass is here.
MORRIS
That is one more step to improve on the ugliness and unfairness of our civilization... but to what end... sometimes we just keep working.
That is one more step to improve on the ugliness and unfairness of our civilization... but to what end... sometimes we just keep working.
NED
Great first impression!
Great first impression!
MORRIS
I have told you before, your drawings are sublime, I will see to it that we do it justice. I don't know what I would do without your assistance with the figures.
I have told you before, your drawings are sublime, I will see to it that we do it justice. I don't know what I would do without your assistance with the figures.
NED
... oh yes, the vines are striking! You, my friend, are the master of greenery. I like them, I like them very much.
... oh yes, the vines are striking! You, my friend, are the master of greenery. I like them, I like them very much.
MORRIS
Thank you. As you see, for the main window, I envision a scheme of traditional,medieval, primary colours, with much red and white, and cobalt instead of copper to match the bold trim in the church. What do you think?
Thank you. As you see, for the main window, I envision a scheme of traditional,medieval, primary colours, with much red and white, and cobalt instead of copper to match the bold trim in the church. What do you think?
NED
As you have it here, the result would be very striking. This is a lot of red, the client agreed to the additional expense?
As you have it here, the result would be very striking. This is a lot of red, the client agreed to the additional expense?
MORRIS, laughing
The expense is included! The moment I was appraised of the church's extensive roof of red gables, and red interior wall tiles, I knew I would have to include miles upon miles of the very best red glass in that quote. Besides, I'm not including much silver stain on account of the distance the viewers will have form the windows. More of this, less of that.
The expense is included! The moment I was appraised of the church's extensive roof of red gables, and red interior wall tiles, I knew I would have to include miles upon miles of the very best red glass in that quote. Besides, I'm not including much silver stain on account of the distance the viewers will have form the windows. More of this, less of that.
NED
Could we unify the smaller windows with that nice olive green glass from Germany, and juxtapose them with the daring colours?
Could we unify the smaller windows with that nice olive green glass from Germany, and juxtapose them with the daring colours?
MORRIS
Yes, let us do that. Do the figures as usual, and I'll mind some foliage in the background.
Yes, let us do that. Do the figures as usual, and I'll mind some foliage in the background.
MORRIS, looking at Ned's drawing
What are you drawing now? Ned, I didn't know you fancied yourself in such ostentatious haberdashery! I see you've drawn me all frumpy and having annexed considerable dirt!
What are you drawing now? Ned, I didn't know you fancied yourself in such ostentatious haberdashery! I see you've drawn me all frumpy and having annexed considerable dirt!
NED
The sign of a hard-working man! No time to tidy up – no use for tidying up. As for me, this is a most accurate depiction of my noble self in its finest costume, ready for the Queen to call. Why, you must know I would never deny our beloved Monarch the honour of knighting me! Does not “Edward Burne-Jones” beg for a “Sir” ahead of it?
The sign of a hard-working man! No time to tidy up – no use for tidying up. As for me, this is a most accurate depiction of my noble self in its finest costume, ready for the Queen to call. Why, you must know I would never deny our beloved Monarch the honour of knighting me! Does not “Edward Burne-Jones” beg for a “Sir” ahead of it?
GEORGIE
Upon my word, if I were to hear anyone utter “Lady Burne-Jones” with reference to me, I would blush to a rich shade of crimson, and pretend to be deaf. I abhor those conventions that choke society into immutable layers, the uppermost of which is assumed to possess hereditary superiority over the toiling masses.
Upon my word, if I were to hear anyone utter “Lady Burne-Jones” with reference to me, I would blush to a rich shade of crimson, and pretend to be deaf. I abhor those conventions that choke society into immutable layers, the uppermost of which is assumed to possess hereditary superiority over the toiling masses.
NED
Don't worry Georgie, you know I would stubbornly refuse. No amount of persuasion could lead to Queen Vic prevailing on me!. Why I... I should bash her fat bottom with her sceptre... and probably bend it beyond recognition!
Don't worry Georgie, you know I would stubbornly refuse. No amount of persuasion could lead to Queen Vic prevailing on me!. Why I... I should bash her fat bottom with her sceptre... and probably bend it beyond recognition!
MORRIS, laughing
I should hope that such a glorified title would not keep you from condescending to mingle with us medieval Barbarians, Ned!
I should hope that such a glorified title would not keep you from condescending to mingle with us medieval Barbarians, Ned!
NED
My dear Topsy, I shall never think of you a Barbarian, as I do believe you were once seen in some board meeting with a top hat.
My dear Topsy, I shall never think of you a Barbarian, as I do believe you were once seen in some board meeting with a top hat.
MORRIS
I quite vividly recall putting that hat on a chair and squarely sitting on it when I resigned the appointment.
I quite vividly recall putting that hat on a chair and squarely sitting on it when I resigned the appointment.
GEORGIE
I would pay admission to see our Topsy in a top hat.
I would pay admission to see our Topsy in a top hat.
MORRIS
I would wager that you'll sooner see your own husband in a top hat, than me.
I would wager that you'll sooner see your own husband in a top hat, than me.
GEORGIE
(Leaving Janey to sit with next to Morris.)
A top hat performance from him would be worth little more than a twopence; but from you, a pound!
(Leaving Janey to sit with next to Morris.)
A top hat performance from him would be worth little more than a twopence; but from you, a pound!
JANEY
(Janey picks up a blue book – The Tragedies of Aeschylus. Literally Translated, by Theodore Alois Buckley - , and lies lazily on a sofa propping herself up with pillows)
(Janey picks up a blue book – The Tragedies of Aeschylus. Literally Translated, by Theodore Alois Buckley - , and lies lazily on a sofa propping herself up with pillows)
NED
There will be no occasion to wear too hats. We all know that if Fat Vicky does call any one of us, it will be to administer a royal whipping!
There will be no occasion to wear too hats. We all know that if Fat Vicky does call any one of us, it will be to administer a royal whipping!
MORRIS
I have as little use for her whip as I have for her knighthoods. I have spent, I know, a vast amount of time designing furniture and wallpapers, carpets and curtains; but after all I am inclined to think that sort of thing is mostly rubbish, and I would prefer for my part to live with the plainest whitewashed wall and wooden chairs and tables – as long as I have plentiful tackle and fishing line.
I have as little use for her whip as I have for her knighthoods. I have spent, I know, a vast amount of time designing furniture and wallpapers, carpets and curtains; but after all I am inclined to think that sort of thing is mostly rubbish, and I would prefer for my part to live with the plainest whitewashed wall and wooden chairs and tables – as long as I have plentiful tackle and fishing line.
NED
I remember a time when you held quite a contrary opinion - on the matter of decoration of course, not of fishing, your devotion to fishing is one of the most reliable constant in your temperament.
I remember a time when you held quite a contrary opinion - on the matter of decoration of course, not of fishing, your devotion to fishing is one of the most reliable constant in your temperament.
MORRIS
The opinions vary, the facts are unchanging. Once, everybody that made anything derived pleasure from crafting a useful piece of goods, and to enhance it with art. Art, art is the one certain solace of labour. Nowadays, the dull squalor of civilization is settling down on the world, like a dense fog on the pleasures of the eyes. Factory production has stripped the production of utilitarian objects from its prideful origins and is quite devoid of humanity.
The opinions vary, the facts are unchanging. Once, everybody that made anything derived pleasure from crafting a useful piece of goods, and to enhance it with art. Art, art is the one certain solace of labour. Nowadays, the dull squalor of civilization is settling down on the world, like a dense fog on the pleasures of the eyes. Factory production has stripped the production of utilitarian objects from its prideful origins and is quite devoid of humanity.
NED
A sobering thought indeed – but we know there is hope for improvement.
A sobering thought indeed – but we know there is hope for improvement.
MORRIS
Yes! The seeds of a great change have been sown among the ruins of this filthy civilization, a genuine Social-Revolution. Ned, I see all around me, the seeds are beginning to germinate. Frail at first, but I have faith the seedlings will grow strong.
Yes! The seeds of a great change have been sown among the ruins of this filthy civilization, a genuine Social-Revolution. Ned, I see all around me, the seeds are beginning to germinate. Frail at first, but I have faith the seedlings will grow strong.
GEORGIE
We have to be relentless in our efforts.
We have to be relentless in our efforts.
MORRIS
It was my good luck to have been born respectable and rich, and my good luck that put me in this house along the Thames, among delightful books, cherished works of art and very dear friends, rather than in London's cheapside with its shrieks, drink-steeped liquor shops, and foul and degraded lodgings.
It was my good luck to have been born respectable and rich, and my good luck that put me in this house along the Thames, among delightful books, cherished works of art and very dear friends, rather than in London's cheapside with its shrieks, drink-steeped liquor shops, and foul and degraded lodgings.
NED
Sometimes, when the cause experiences a setback, I feel that there is too much beauty here at Kelmscott Manor to be vexed by such trifles.
Sometimes, when the cause experiences a setback, I feel that there is too much beauty here at Kelmscott Manor to be vexed by such trifles.
MORRIS
Trifles? Nothing can argue me out of this feeling ... the contrasts of rich and poor are unendurable and ought not to be endured by either rich or poor.
Trifles? Nothing can argue me out of this feeling ... the contrasts of rich and poor are unendurable and ought not to be endured by either rich or poor.
GEORGIE
Well said.
Well said.
MORRIS
Indeed, I hope for a good turn toward the abasement of the rich and the raising up of the poor, till people can at last rub out from their dictionaries altogether those dreadful words, “rich” and “poor.” No one man can change the world, but we are now many, spread out in many countries.
Indeed, I hope for a good turn toward the abasement of the rich and the raising up of the poor, till people can at last rub out from their dictionaries altogether those dreadful words, “rich” and “poor.” No one man can change the world, but we are now many, spread out in many countries.
NED
One mind at a time, Topsy, one mind at a time!
One mind at a time, Topsy, one mind at a time!
The
doorbell rings, the parlour maid answers the door.
MORRIS
Who could that be? We are not expecting anyone beyond our current company.
Who could that be? We are not expecting anyone beyond our current company.
NED
Perhaps a neighbour is running out of ale and comes to borrow!
Perhaps a neighbour is running out of ale and comes to borrow!
PARLOR MAID
Mr Rossetti, Sir.
Mr Rossetti, Sir.
Only
Ned and Janey stand to greet Rossetti, Ned walks to him. Janey sits
back down.
 |
| Shall I remind him that I revoked his co-tenancy on Kelmscott Manor years ago? |
MORRIS, to Georgie
Shall I remind him that I revoked his co-tenancy on Kelmscott Manor years ago?
GEORGIE
(nods negatively)
(nods negatively)
NED
Gabriel! To what do we owe the pleasure? Is Hall Caine accompanying you?
Gabriel! To what do we owe the pleasure? Is Hall Caine accompanying you?
ROSSETTI
Good afternoon Ned, Janey...
Good afternoon Ned, Janey...
JANEY
Good afternoon.
Good afternoon.
ROSSETTI
...everyone; I apologize for arriving unannounced, you must understand that only grievous concern would compel me to make my way here at once, risking to find the house closed.
...everyone; I apologize for arriving unannounced, you must understand that only grievous concern would compel me to make my way here at once, risking to find the house closed.
NED
Has someone died?
Has someone died?
ROSSETTI
As of yet... no. I reckon I became cunning in my desperation to escape Hall Caine's constant spying and machinations. I left London this morning, when he thought I was still sleeping, with nothing but the clothes I was wearing so as not to arouse suspicion with luggage. He has agents everywhere; they couldn't be identified by their dress, or their age, or their gender, but their behaviour gave them away. They had those sly, sly looks! They were relaying each other, silently and stealthy as snakes...
As of yet... no. I reckon I became cunning in my desperation to escape Hall Caine's constant spying and machinations. I left London this morning, when he thought I was still sleeping, with nothing but the clothes I was wearing so as not to arouse suspicion with luggage. He has agents everywhere; they couldn't be identified by their dress, or their age, or their gender, but their behaviour gave them away. They had those sly, sly looks! They were relaying each other, silently and stealthy as snakes...
NED
Gabriel, Gabriel, please, sit here. Hear me: there is no man more worthy of trust than Hall Caine. Is he not taking care of your affairs and your health?
Gabriel, Gabriel, please, sit here. Hear me: there is no man more worthy of trust than Hall Caine. Is he not taking care of your affairs and your health?
ROSSETTI
He is taking care of my affairs, to satisfy some dark and impenetrable motives. Did you know he brings me doctors constantly, and they whisper, or speak in the other room. You must help me! I am sure he is lying to everyone.
He is taking care of my affairs, to satisfy some dark and impenetrable motives. Did you know he brings me doctors constantly, and they whisper, or speak in the other room. You must help me! I am sure he is lying to everyone.
NED
Settle down, old friend, you are trembling like a leaf.
Settle down, old friend, you are trembling like a leaf.
The parlour
maid is preparing tea and and sets cucumber sandwiches on the table.
MORRIS,
somewhat angry
Why don't know we give him some whiskey? Annie please bring our “guest” some whiskey.
Why don't know we give him some whiskey? Annie please bring our “guest” some whiskey.
ROSSETTI
Thank you, that would be most calming. (The maid brings the drink, Rossetti drinks half the glass). Have you heard the latest on Swinburne, our dear little Northumbrian friend?
Thank you, that would be most calming. (The maid brings the drink, Rossetti drinks half the glass). Have you heard the latest on Swinburne, our dear little Northumbrian friend?
NED
I do miss Swinburne's prodigious prodigality with words! Is Watts still keeping him under lock and key over at the Pines?
I do miss Swinburne's prodigious prodigality with words! Is Watts still keeping him under lock and key over at the Pines?
ROSSETTI
(taking a sandwich)
For nearly two years now. Watts still has control of Swinburne's purse, one can suppose that Watts is protecting his investment after paying off Swinburne's creditors like a stern headmaster. I am pleased to report that Watts' sequestration appears to have succeeded in curing him from his frightful propensity to drink to oblivion, but no amount of punishment seems to have cured him of his love of the birch rod.
For nearly two years now. Watts still has control of Swinburne's purse, one can suppose that Watts is protecting his investment after paying off Swinburne's creditors like a stern headmaster. I am pleased to report that Watts' sequestration appears to have succeeded in curing him from his frightful propensity to drink to oblivion, but no amount of punishment seems to have cured him of his love of the birch rod.
MORRIS,
shouting out to Ned
Swinburne should have been entertained by our earlier conversation about royal whippings!
Swinburne should have been entertained by our earlier conversation about royal whippings!
ROSSETTI
I quite believe that Watts is keeping us all away from him! Hall Caine won't let me call on him, saying that Swinburne won't have me! But I don't believe a word. He is conniving with Watts to keep us apart. Watts thinks my company, and the company of all of you here, may endanger Swinburne's strict abstinence regimen – we may influence him into some scandalous excesses.
I quite believe that Watts is keeping us all away from him! Hall Caine won't let me call on him, saying that Swinburne won't have me! But I don't believe a word. He is conniving with Watts to keep us apart. Watts thinks my company, and the company of all of you here, may endanger Swinburne's strict abstinence regimen – we may influence him into some scandalous excesses.
MORRIS,
shouting out
Have you considered that Watts might be protecting Swinburne from you?.
Have you considered that Watts might be protecting Swinburne from you?.
GEORGIE,
to Morris
Shhhhh....
Shhhhh....
NED
Watts fears that we may influence Swinburne? To be fair, I have heard of this as well. Oh dear, of all my friends, Swinburne is the most liable to boast of such excesses whether they have occurred or not, just of the pleasure of astounding his audience! I can conceive of very little that he would not do or say to produce effect!
Watts fears that we may influence Swinburne? To be fair, I have heard of this as well. Oh dear, of all my friends, Swinburne is the most liable to boast of such excesses whether they have occurred or not, just of the pleasure of astounding his audience! I can conceive of very little that he would not do or say to produce effect!
ROSSETTI
I warned Swinburne about these parody letters he's been sending his circle of friends... they will give rise to endless generations of biographers and scribblers looking for weeds on his grave. I shudder to think his memory be so degraded by philistines.
I warned Swinburne about these parody letters he's been sending his circle of friends... they will give rise to endless generations of biographers and scribblers looking for weeds on his grave. I shudder to think his memory be so degraded by philistines.
NED
I treasure these letters from Swinburne, I shall never be of a mind to burn them. Never.
I treasure these letters from Swinburne, I shall never be of a mind to burn them. Never.
ROSSETTI
Plucky little man... he replied to my request with a promise that, if public opinion was scandalous to his satisfaction in life, he would not fret about public opinions in the afterlife... and that he would be a smidgen too dead to care.
Plucky little man... he replied to my request with a promise that, if public opinion was scandalous to his satisfaction in life, he would not fret about public opinions in the afterlife... and that he would be a smidgen too dead to care.
NED
It is no surprise that you failed to prevail upon him; he once wrote to me that “if we are to be shackled in our correspondence with our closest friends by the fear of future vermin, we may as well resign all thought of fun an confidence, at once.”
It is no surprise that you failed to prevail upon him; he once wrote to me that “if we are to be shackled in our correspondence with our closest friends by the fear of future vermin, we may as well resign all thought of fun an confidence, at once.”
ROSSETTI
He refuses to be reasoned with. Sadly, the disagreement led to a falling out. To think we were once room mates and the affection we lavished on each other for fifteen years, at least... now old Swinburne thinks me an unmanly deserter.
He refuses to be reasoned with. Sadly, the disagreement led to a falling out. To think we were once room mates and the affection we lavished on each other for fifteen years, at least... now old Swinburne thinks me an unmanly deserter.
Rossetti
finishes the whiskey along with a vial of chloral from his pocket.
NED
Gabriel, ingesting this much chloral can't be good for your health.
Gabriel, ingesting this much chloral can't be good for your health.
ROSSETTI,
accusingly
Such false concern. As we are both aware, this conspiracy is orchestrated by Buchanan, the supreme mastermind, and using Hall Caine as his tool, to crush my fair name as a man, and as an artist. I am being aggressively hounded out of honest society. I didn't know you were a member of Buchanan's cabal, Ned. I swear, until this moment, I did not know. Morris must have corrupted you.
Such false concern. As we are both aware, this conspiracy is orchestrated by Buchanan, the supreme mastermind, and using Hall Caine as his tool, to crush my fair name as a man, and as an artist. I am being aggressively hounded out of honest society. I didn't know you were a member of Buchanan's cabal, Ned. I swear, until this moment, I did not know. Morris must have corrupted you.
MORRIS
I did corrupt him! I confess.
I did corrupt him! I confess.
GEORGIE
Hush...
Hush...
NED
No, William...
No, William...
ROSSETTI,
overturning his empty glass accidentally
I lost all sensations in my arm, it is completely numb... what did you put in this whiskey? You poisoned it!
I lost all sensations in my arm, it is completely numb... what did you put in this whiskey? You poisoned it!
MORRIS
We'll gladly bring you a second help...
We'll gladly bring you a second help...
GEORGIE
Shhhh...
Shhhh...
ROSSETTI
The sandwiches, the sandwiches, too!
The sandwiches, the sandwiches, too!
MORRIS
(stands up, very angrily takes the sandwiches and empties the plate
out the window)
You may thank Georgie's pleas for this show of mercy on you! See? No more poison!
You may thank Georgie's pleas for this show of mercy on you! See? No more poison!
ROSSETTI
I made a tremendous mistake showing up here tonight – you... Hall Caine.. you are all agents of Buchanan... who knows everything, everything, therefore, you must know everything too...
I made a tremendous mistake showing up here tonight – you... Hall Caine.. you are all agents of Buchanan... who knows everything, everything, therefore, you must know everything too...
GEORGIE
Oh Gabriel, no, you are among old friends and we wish to protect you from any harm.
Oh Gabriel, no, you are among old friends and we wish to protect you from any harm.
ROSSETTI
(to Georgie only)
He will not give me any rest until he sees me laying in a coffin.
He will not give me any rest until he sees me laying in a coffin.
GEORGIE
You are tormenting yourself unnecessarily. No one here or anywhere cares about Buchanan's despicable critic of your poems, or anyone's poems.
You are tormenting yourself unnecessarily. No one here or anywhere cares about Buchanan's despicable critic of your poems, or anyone's poems.
ROSSETTI
(to Georgie only)
Georgie, his critic of my poems are the outward manifestation of a far more sinister plan. It is like an ant hill... you see an entrance, and a few ants, but below the surface is a complex subterranean network of tunnels and chambers...
Georgie, his critic of my poems are the outward manifestation of a far more sinister plan. It is like an ant hill... you see an entrance, and a few ants, but below the surface is a complex subterranean network of tunnels and chambers...
GEORGIE
But that Buchanan critic was years ago, nothing has happened since.. why would he persecute you?
But that Buchanan critic was years ago, nothing has happened since.. why would he persecute you?
ROSSETTI
(to Georgie only)
He is of a mind to punish me.
He is of a mind to punish me.
GEORGIE
Buchanan has not stalked you for years for writing poems he does not fancy much. If he had such a habit, there would be no poet left in all of England, except a few very dull ones.
Buchanan has not stalked you for years for writing poems he does not fancy much. If he had such a habit, there would be no poet left in all of England, except a few very dull ones.
ROSSETTI
(to Georgie only)
Georgie, this goes beyond the poems. Buchanan knows, his agents know, and I know that his intent is to castigate me into exile for having... it pains me to utter the words... for having exhumed dear Lizzie's ... coffin... to retrieve the poems I had buried with her.
Georgie, this goes beyond the poems. Buchanan knows, his agents know, and I know that his intent is to castigate me into exile for having... it pains me to utter the words... for having exhumed dear Lizzie's ... coffin... to retrieve the poems I had buried with her.
GEORGIE
There cannot be more than 5 or 6 people that know of this and Buchanan is not among them. Please, breathe slowly, like this. He doesn't even know... we have kept your secret. No one knows.
There cannot be more than 5 or 6 people that know of this and Buchanan is not among them. Please, breathe slowly, like this. He doesn't even know... we have kept your secret. No one knows.
ROSSETTI,
looking towards an indifferent Janey, speaking more softly
He does know. He is also punishing me for loving a woman more than any other creature in the world... for this he wants to destroy me! He is a terrifying enemy, hunting me to death, every day! His spies have perforated every wall, everything I do, everything I say is known to his co-conspirators!
He does know. He is also punishing me for loving a woman more than any other creature in the world... for this he wants to destroy me! He is a terrifying enemy, hunting me to death, every day! His spies have perforated every wall, everything I do, everything I say is known to his co-conspirators!
MORRIS,
to the parlour maid
Annie, please send for Hall Caine in London, at once. Appraise him that Rossetti, is here and safe for the night, and to come and fetch him at once.
Annie, please send for Hall Caine in London, at once. Appraise him that Rossetti, is here and safe for the night, and to come and fetch him at once.
MAID
Right away, Sir.
Right away, Sir.
NED,
to Morris
Topsy, shall I take our guest to one of the bedrooms upstairs?
Topsy, shall I take our guest to one of the bedrooms upstairs?
MORRIS
Can you manage?
Can you manage?
NED,
nodding
Come up, Gabriel, you need to rest. Do you still trust Janey is not an agent of Buchanan?
Come up, Gabriel, you need to rest. Do you still trust Janey is not an agent of Buchanan?
ROSSETTI
Janey...
Janey...
NED
Janey, won't you come with us? He might be soothed by your presence.
Janey, won't you come with us? He might be soothed by your presence.
ROSSETTI
Where is my chloral? Did someone take my chloral?
Where is my chloral? Did someone take my chloral?
NED
Your provisions of chloral bulge through your jacket, my friend, you have enough chloral.
Your provisions of chloral bulge through your jacket, my friend, you have enough chloral.
ROSSETTI,
leaving the room with Ned and Janey
I must have it to sleep, Buchanan's agents keep me awake... only the chloral brings me peace, and sleep. Ned you must help support me! My leg is numb now!
I must have it to sleep, Buchanan's agents keep me awake... only the chloral brings me peace, and sleep. Ned you must help support me! My leg is numb now!
NED
Here, put your arm around my shoulders.
Here, put your arm around my shoulders.
ROSSETTI
Thank you, thank you. How is your health, Janey?
Thank you, thank you. How is your health, Janey?
JANEY
(on their way out)
Quite poorly, but improving in some ways...
Quite poorly, but improving in some ways...
Ned, Janey and
Rossetti leave the room
MORRIS,
to Georgie
Is he really ill, or only acting to keep those around him in suspense?
Is he really ill, or only acting to keep those around him in suspense?
GEORGIE
We have seen too little of him in the past few years to make an accurate assessment of his health.
We have seen too little of him in the past few years to make an accurate assessment of his health.
MORRIS
I regret my burst of anger. His illness is worse than the reports suggest – he has gone quite mad. Yet, we are all in his debt... he taught us so much about art, painting, poetry... he was the sun, we were mere planets. His heart, his heart...
I regret my burst of anger. His illness is worse than the reports suggest – he has gone quite mad. Yet, we are all in his debt... he taught us so much about art, painting, poetry... he was the sun, we were mere planets. His heart, his heart...
GEORGIE
Ned always says: “when Rossetti loves a man or woman, they know it.”
Ned always says: “when Rossetti loves a man or woman, they know it.”
MORRIS
How true.
How true.
GEORGIE
I'm afraid he is not long for this world. He has already attempted to hasten his own demise with an overabundance of chloral – though his friends saved him, and helped him recover some health, he now merely appears to carry on his march to the pine box with a slower, wavering stride, chloral in hand.
I'm afraid he is not long for this world. He has already attempted to hasten his own demise with an overabundance of chloral – though his friends saved him, and helped him recover some health, he now merely appears to carry on his march to the pine box with a slower, wavering stride, chloral in hand.
MORRIS
One could not divine, when we were young and vigorous, what would become of some of us.
One could not divine, when we were young and vigorous, what would become of some of us.
GEORGIE
Kelmscott Manor is as beautiful and lively a place as ever. I understand your business is doing well.
Kelmscott Manor is as beautiful and lively a place as ever. I understand your business is doing well.
MORRIS
(noise is heard from the bedroom)
Ah, yes. I've got clergymen demanding silk and gold altar clothes when thousands are in want of food...
Ah, yes. I've got clergymen demanding silk and gold altar clothes when thousands are in want of food...
GEORGIE
This inexcusable extravagance should call for an additional charge!
This inexcusable extravagance should call for an additional charge!
MORRIS
It does! It does! But a monetary penalty is paltry persuasion on the impenitent pulpit beaters. I will try writing a long and tedious reprimand next time opportunity knocks.
It does! It does! But a monetary penalty is paltry persuasion on the impenitent pulpit beaters. I will try writing a long and tedious reprimand next time opportunity knocks.
GEORGIE
Aye, the clergy. Here is a category that ought to suffer listening to sermons, rather than administer them.
Aye, the clergy. Here is a category that ought to suffer listening to sermons, rather than administer them.
MORRIS
I may deserve a few homilies myself, it is a truth that I have spent my life ministering to the swinish luxury of the rich! For myself, I'd like to live in one great room; eat here, sleep there, work in that corner, talk to friends in that other corner.
I may deserve a few homilies myself, it is a truth that I have spent my life ministering to the swinish luxury of the rich! For myself, I'd like to live in one great room; eat here, sleep there, work in that corner, talk to friends in that other corner.
MORRIS,
checking that they are alone
How are you, Georgie?
How are you, Georgie?
GEORGIE
(shrugs, looks away)
(shrugs, looks away)
MORRIS
You must trust that I can keep a secret. A true and tested fact.
You must trust that I can keep a secret. A true and tested fact.
GEORGIE
You are the very best friend one could ask for. However, I am loathe to hear my own self complaining. It does the soul no good at all. How is Janey's health?
You are the very best friend one could ask for. However, I am loathe to hear my own self complaining. It does the soul no good at all. How is Janey's health?
MORRIS
As always. I never know if it is real or not. I have a notion that the complaints are a kind of refuge from...
As always. I never know if it is real or not. I have a notion that the complaints are a kind of refuge from...
GEORGIE
From?
From?
MORRIS
I do not know. That is enough about me – I feel there is something you want to say.
I do not know. That is enough about me – I feel there is something you want to say.
GEORGIE
(banging is heard upstairs)
I console myself with the thought that there is love enough between Edward and I to last out a long life – one should hope, for I was but a girl of 15 when we were engaged. In my darkest moments, I am despondent with the knowledge that he squanders much of this affection on...
I console myself with the thought that there is love enough between Edward and I to last out a long life – one should hope, for I was but a girl of 15 when we were engaged. In my darkest moments, I am despondent with the knowledge that he squanders much of this affection on...
MORRIS
... I know, I know.
... I know, I know.
GEORGIE
Have no worry, he is always kind to me.
Have no worry, he is always kind to me.
MORRIS
As Janey is to me. The... uhm... played itself out.
As Janey is to me. The... uhm... played itself out.
GEORGIE,
sighing
Alas! The moment one source of sorrow is played out, there is another waiting. Aside from some rather unfortunate, public embarrassment... that got every tongue in London in a frenzy, one must carry on and sort out the accomplishments from the trifles.
Alas! The moment one source of sorrow is played out, there is another waiting. Aside from some rather unfortunate, public embarrassment... that got every tongue in London in a frenzy, one must carry on and sort out the accomplishments from the trifles.
MORRIS
Oh Georgie...
Oh Georgie...
GEORGIE
We are both still standing, are we not?
We are both still standing, are we not?
MORRIS
I ought to model myself after you, Georgie, and repel those moods that come upon me. Perhaps these doldrums would come upon me just the same, regardless of that failure of mine.
I ought to model myself after you, Georgie, and repel those moods that come upon me. Perhaps these doldrums would come upon me just the same, regardless of that failure of mine.
GEORGIE
It is not your failure. I do not believe that this failure is yours.
It is not your failure. I do not believe that this failure is yours.
MORRIS
You are very kind.
You are very kind.
GEORGIE
Never forget: our petty, inner sentiments die along with our mortal envelope. Meanwhile, there exist foundations of art, history and society that transcend our intimate circumstances. We ought to never lose sight of life's greater goals, such as the levelling of the classes into a community of equals.
Never forget: our petty, inner sentiments die along with our mortal envelope. Meanwhile, there exist foundations of art, history and society that transcend our intimate circumstances. We ought to never lose sight of life's greater goals, such as the levelling of the classes into a community of equals.
MORRIS
When one is deprived of that one thing wanting, and is denied affection, forfeiting one's personal satisfaction for the greater good has reduced merit.
When one is deprived of that one thing wanting, and is denied affection, forfeiting one's personal satisfaction for the greater good has reduced merit.
GEORGIE
Whatever the motive... we call it the “greater good” for a reason. I understand Janey is not fond of your new proletarian friends...
Whatever the motive... we call it the “greater good” for a reason. I understand Janey is not fond of your new proletarian friends...
MORRIS
She finds something to occupy herself when they assemble at the house, a good thing I suppose. She's not much fond of Kelmscott, upon the whole... but she is invaluable in selling tickets for my lectures on architectural preservation, even the dreadful, tiresome ones on, ah! pattern design!
She finds something to occupy herself when they assemble at the house, a good thing I suppose. She's not much fond of Kelmscott, upon the whole... but she is invaluable in selling tickets for my lectures on architectural preservation, even the dreadful, tiresome ones on, ah! pattern design!
Ned
and Janey are heard coming back, Georgie and Morris force themselves
to laugh.
NED
I quite believe Morpheus will be his guardian until sunrise.
I quite believe Morpheus will be his guardian until sunrise.
JANEY,
going back to lie on the couch with her book
I have quite given up on him.
I have quite given up on him.
NED
Topsy, Janey and I are much disappointed that we missed out on a great source of merriment!
Topsy, Janey and I are much disappointed that we missed out on a great source of merriment!
MORRIS,
acting out the story for comical effect
It's an old story that I repeat upon especial request. I was just relating to Georgie how I was dyeing some tapestry wool a few years ago, yes, I was on the brink of getting a very nice yellow out of poplar twigs, which cannot recommend on account of it not being permanent, though very sharp and clear. I had raised my sleeves and my arms were deep in the dye vat when Annie rushed in to warn me that someone had come calling. I got very impatient, stomped my feet, and shouted out: “can't you see I'm dyeing? I'm dyeing!” The poor girl ran off and it wasn't before long that everyone had hurried out to bear witness to my demise... Thomas had come so fast, a scrubbing brush in hand... I though, good grief, is that what it would take for me to get a good cleaning?
It's an old story that I repeat upon especial request. I was just relating to Georgie how I was dyeing some tapestry wool a few years ago, yes, I was on the brink of getting a very nice yellow out of poplar twigs, which cannot recommend on account of it not being permanent, though very sharp and clear. I had raised my sleeves and my arms were deep in the dye vat when Annie rushed in to warn me that someone had come calling. I got very impatient, stomped my feet, and shouted out: “can't you see I'm dyeing? I'm dyeing!” The poor girl ran off and it wasn't before long that everyone had hurried out to bear witness to my demise... Thomas had come so fast, a scrubbing brush in hand... I though, good grief, is that what it would take for me to get a good cleaning?
NED
I never tire of this story! Ah, Tops, you'll always be my favourite. They should bury us together, along with the wives. Had our paths never crossed, I would take myself much too seriously... and be thought of as an insufferable pedant!
I never tire of this story! Ah, Tops, you'll always be my favourite. They should bury us together, along with the wives. Had our paths never crossed, I would take myself much too seriously... and be thought of as an insufferable pedant!
MORRIS
(laughs, and turns a little sad) And I, I would be a very lonely man... you and Georgie... are my pillars.
(laughs, and turns a little sad) And I, I would be a very lonely man... you and Georgie... are my pillars.
MORRIS
& NED & GEORGIE
(raising pretend glasses) To friendship!
(raising pretend glasses) To friendship!
GEORGIE,
to Janey
Well, that was an unexpectedly eventful evening. Are you still reading Aeschylus'
Well, that was an unexpectedly eventful evening. Are you still reading Aeschylus'
JANEY
I am.
I am.
GEORGIE
Where are you at?
Where are you at?
JANEY
Here. See?
Here. See?
GEORGIE
Splendid! Do read out for Cassandra, I shall read out the chorus. Let's entertain the gentlemen.
Splendid! Do read out for Cassandra, I shall read out the chorus. Let's entertain the gentlemen.
MORRIS
A chorus? You shall need another!
A chorus? You shall need another!
JANEY,
sighs a little
The prophet Apollo appointed me to the office of foretelling.
The prophet Apollo appointed me to the office of foretelling.
GEORGIE
& MORRIS
What! Was he, a god, smitten with a passion for you?
What! Was he, a god, smitten with a passion for you?
JANEY
Yes. Heretofore, I was ashamed to tell this tale.
Yes. Heretofore, I was ashamed to tell this tale.
GEORGIE
& MORRIS
Aye, for every one that is very prosperous, grows delicate.
Aye, for every one that is very prosperous, grows delicate.
JANEY
But he was an eager suitor, breathing strong love for me.
But he was an eager suitor, breathing strong love for me.
GEORGIE
& MORRIS & NED
Did you even meet in wedlock?
Did you even meet in wedlock?
JANEY
Having consented, I deceived him.
Having consented, I deceived him.
GEORGIE
& NED
Wast thou already possessed of inspired love?
Wast thou already possessed of inspired love?
JANEY
I was, even then, predicting all their sufferings to my countrymen.
I was, even then, predicting all their sufferings to my countrymen.
GEORGIE
& NED
How then wast thou unscathed by the wrath of Loxias?
How then wast thou unscathed by the wrath of Loxias?
JANEY
I used to win no one's credence in anything, after I had committed this trespass...
I used to win no one's credence in anything, after I had committed this trespass...
GEORGIE,
coughing
...cough, cough! I need water!
...cough, cough! I need water!
NED
Georgie has got a cough, Topsy has quite lost his voice, and Cassandra the failed to prophesy the doom of the chorus!
Georgie has got a cough, Topsy has quite lost his voice, and Cassandra the failed to prophesy the doom of the chorus!
JANEY,
bored, closing the book
We should be glad, this translation is a very tedious read.
We should be glad, this translation is a very tedious read.
Act 2 - Year 1861
JANEY
– W. MORRIS – ROSSETTI – LIZZIE SIDDAL (very pregnant) -
GEORGIE B-J (pregnant) – NED B-J – SWINBURNE – JENNY MORRIS
(newborn).
Everyone
is in the living room, drinks and food are being served buffet style.
Morris is holding a baby. Rossetti's Dantis Amor can be seen one of
three cupboard doors that formed the upper part of a large settle.
http://www.tate.org.uk/art/images/work/N/N03/N03532_10.jpg
http://www.gallery.ca/en/see/collections/artwork.php?mkey=4233
http://www.gallery.ca/en/see/collections/artwork.php?mkey=4233
 |
| The sweetest flowers in all the world! A baby's hands. |
SWINBURNE
The sweetest flowers in all the world! A baby's hands. Wee Jenny Morris, born January, 1861, an auspicious year, to be sure. Aye! I am overcome with the necessity of uttering a speech. It cannot be helped, I shall not entertain pleas of mercy, I am very cruel.
The sweetest flowers in all the world! A baby's hands. Wee Jenny Morris, born January, 1861, an auspicious year, to be sure. Aye! I am overcome with the necessity of uttering a speech. It cannot be helped, I shall not entertain pleas of mercy, I am very cruel.
EVERYONE
(laughter)
(laughter)
SWINBURNE
Should you find my time on the stump to be an abomination upon your ears, I shall deem it a triumph, at once!
Should you find my time on the stump to be an abomination upon your ears, I shall deem it a triumph, at once!
ROSSETTI
I hate to be a contrarian: but you can only delight us!
I hate to be a contrarian: but you can only delight us!
SWINBURNE
With all of present company having recently fallen into matrimony, with the exception of one excitable, charismatic red-headed bard, I am thrice reminded that you have inflicted upon me the same sorrow as if I had heard of you lapsing into theism, or worse!
With all of present company having recently fallen into matrimony, with the exception of one excitable, charismatic red-headed bard, I am thrice reminded that you have inflicted upon me the same sorrow as if I had heard of you lapsing into theism, or worse!
EVERYONE
(laughter)
(laughter)
MORRIS,
handing the baby over to Janey, who is laying down on a sofa.
Or worse? What could be worse?
Or worse? What could be worse?
SWINBURNE
Yours truly, Pope Algernon Swinburne the First!
Yours truly, Pope Algernon Swinburne the First!
ROSSETTI,
looking at Morris
Pope Swinburne! Would that not be an irresistible incentive to become a man of cloth?
Pope Swinburne! Would that not be an irresistible incentive to become a man of cloth?
MORRIS,
to Rossetti
By Jove, I know of no one that would not haste to convert to Catholicism under such flamboyant leadership!
By Jove, I know of no one that would not haste to convert to Catholicism under such flamboyant leadership!
GEORGIE,
laughing, to Lizzie
If that came to pass, the underworld would be a merry place indeed...
If that came to pass, the underworld would be a merry place indeed...
LIZZIE
...and I would not wait for an invitation to jump into the pit!
...and I would not wait for an invitation to jump into the pit!
SWINBURNE
You incorrigible pagans.
You incorrigible pagans.
JANE
hands a sleeping baby Jenny over to a maid, who takes her away, and
she lies down on a loveseat. She picks up some embroidery.
SWINBURNE
Our good friend Webb, to whom we owe much of the delightfully medieval architecture of this beautiful “Red House,” and decoration within, has sent his regrets, but only for our little soirĂ©e tonight – do not concern yourselves, he is in the best of health, and still expected to join us at the extravagant reception we are planning for the Purgatory.
Our good friend Webb, to whom we owe much of the delightfully medieval architecture of this beautiful “Red House,” and decoration within, has sent his regrets, but only for our little soirĂ©e tonight – do not concern yourselves, he is in the best of health, and still expected to join us at the extravagant reception we are planning for the Purgatory.
EVERYONE
(laughter)
(laughter)
SWINBURNE
Shall we raise a toast?
Shall we raise a toast?
EVERYONE
Yes!
Yes!
ROSSETTI
The honour is yours, Swinburne, you have no equal for toasts.
The honour is yours, Swinburne, you have no equal for toasts.
SWINBURNE
Very well then! I am eager to be at your service. To darling baby Jenny, we wish... the resplendent beauty of her mother, and her father's temper...
Very well then! I am eager to be at your service. To darling baby Jenny, we wish... the resplendent beauty of her mother, and her father's temper...
EVERYONE
(laughter)
(laughter)
SWINBURNE
Ahem! I meant distemper!
Ahem! I meant distemper!
ROSSETTI
Poor child, oh no! Topsy's distemper murals are worse than his temper! May he find the much sought-after improvement with the paintbrush, and prove us all wrong!
Poor child, oh no! Topsy's distemper murals are worse than his temper! May he find the much sought-after improvement with the paintbrush, and prove us all wrong!
MORRIS,
laughing
I have wholly given up on this futile endeavour! I do have friends enough to retouch my contorted lepers into fair princesses... but I shall try not to tax their patience again!
I have wholly given up on this futile endeavour! I do have friends enough to retouch my contorted lepers into fair princesses... but I shall try not to tax their patience again!
ROSSETTI
If we become short on patience, we'll give you green and yellow enough to cover every wall in London in sunflowers, like you did at the Oxford Union Library!
If we become short on patience, we'll give you green and yellow enough to cover every wall in London in sunflowers, like you did at the Oxford Union Library!
EVERYONE
(laughter)
(laughter)
MORRIS,
to everyone, shrugging
Rossetti said I ought to paint... he stated that “if I had any poetry in me at all, I should paint it.” Now as he is a very great man, and speaks with authority and not as the scribes, I had to try... he must bear his share of responsibility for the ensuing fiasco... now I know to hire Ned for all depictions of the human figure!
Rossetti said I ought to paint... he stated that “if I had any poetry in me at all, I should paint it.” Now as he is a very great man, and speaks with authority and not as the scribes, I had to try... he must bear his share of responsibility for the ensuing fiasco... now I know to hire Ned for all depictions of the human figure!
NED
Forever at your service, good friend!
Forever at your service, good friend!
SWINBURNE
Let's settle the disagreement like the gentlemen that we ought to be. To Topsy's poetic acumen and determination to succeed in all his decorative endeavours we shall raise our glasses!
Let's settle the disagreement like the gentlemen that we ought to be. To Topsy's poetic acumen and determination to succeed in all his decorative endeavours we shall raise our glasses!
EVERYONE
(cheers)
(cheers)
SWINBURNE
To dear Lizzie, may she give birth to a red-headed child...
To dear Lizzie, may she give birth to a red-headed child...
GEORGIE
That dear Swinburne will surely spoil as much as he spoils Lizzie!
That dear Swinburne will surely spoil as much as he spoils Lizzie!
EVERYONE
(cheers)
(cheers)
NED
Lucky child!
Lucky child!
SWINBURNE
There is a special bond between us carrots that cannot be topped. I make no secret of my deep fondness for Gabriel's new bride, but long-devoted lover Lizzie, so fair, and so accomplished in drawing and painting, why, she must have taught our Gabriel at least half of what he boasts of! And now - to Georgie and Ned, whose inspiring love, like a sacred bower rose, blooms through the stinging winds of winter with the same vigour as through summer's delicate breath, cheers!
There is a special bond between us carrots that cannot be topped. I make no secret of my deep fondness for Gabriel's new bride, but long-devoted lover Lizzie, so fair, and so accomplished in drawing and painting, why, she must have taught our Gabriel at least half of what he boasts of! And now - to Georgie and Ned, whose inspiring love, like a sacred bower rose, blooms through the stinging winds of winter with the same vigour as through summer's delicate breath, cheers!
EVERYONE
(ah's & cheers)
(ah's & cheers)
SWINBURNE
May Gabriel's magnetic and influence continue to empassion us all, and steer us into improving this world with beauty, grace, friendship and love. May the ideals of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood's live forever in the hearts of men.
May Gabriel's magnetic and influence continue to empassion us all, and steer us into improving this world with beauty, grace, friendship and love. May the ideals of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood's live forever in the hearts of men.
NED &
ROSSETTI
To the Brotherhood!
To the Brotherhood!
SWINBURNE,
realizing he forgot Janey
Last, but not least, our Janey – a creature of such perfect grace that to kiss her feet is the utmost men should dream of doing. Is it not insane for Topsy to have that wonderful and most perfect stunner of to look at or speak to?
Last, but not least, our Janey – a creature of such perfect grace that to kiss her feet is the utmost men should dream of doing. Is it not insane for Topsy to have that wonderful and most perfect stunner of to look at or speak to?
ROSSETTI
Swinburne, I must finish this one!
Swinburne, I must finish this one!
SWINBURNE
The floor is yours!
The floor is yours!
ROSSETTI
Ahem! To what will surely become the most celebrated stunner in all of England, for the perfection of her profile, the classicism of her lips, her soft eyes of grey, and the dark torrent of hair bouncing down her graceful neck, Mrs Jane Morris!
Ahem! To what will surely become the most celebrated stunner in all of England, for the perfection of her profile, the classicism of her lips, her soft eyes of grey, and the dark torrent of hair bouncing down her graceful neck, Mrs Jane Morris!
EVERYONE
(except Lizzie)
(cheers)
(cheers)
JANEY
(nods)
(nods)
GEORGIE
And to Swinburne of course! Our most lively and cherished companion...
And to Swinburne of course! Our most lively and cherished companion...
LIZZIE
I would not trade our friendship for a crate full of gold!
I would not trade our friendship for a crate full of gold!
NED
Or a ship full of wine!
Or a ship full of wine!
ROSSETTI
...To one that never stops biting into life!
...To one that never stops biting into life!
MORRIS
And who won't stop life from biting into him! Which reminds me, the spread looks complete, whether it is or not I am feeling rather peckish and I heartily recommend that we attack it with forks.
And who won't stop life from biting into him! Which reminds me, the spread looks complete, whether it is or not I am feeling rather peckish and I heartily recommend that we attack it with forks.
ROSSETTI
Not yet, Top, read us one of your grinds
Not yet, Top, read us one of your grinds
MORRIS
No, Gabriel, you've heard them all.
No, Gabriel, you've heard them all.
ROSSETTI
Maybe Swinburne hasn't heard them yet – and they are devilish good!
Maybe Swinburne hasn't heard them yet – and they are devilish good!
SWINBURNE
(nods in the positive)
(nods in the positive)
MORRIS
I will fetch a few since some of you are eager to pretend they have not heard them at least 5 times each! (Leaves to fetch some notes)
I will fetch a few since some of you are eager to pretend they have not heard them at least 5 times each! (Leaves to fetch some notes)
EVERYONE
(laughs)
(laughs)
NED
At last! What have you got?
At last! What have you got?
ROSSETTI
(takes out a stuffed mouse out of his pocket)
A stuffed mouse – a bookseller of my acquaintance has taken up taxidermy.
A stuffed mouse – a bookseller of my acquaintance has taken up taxidermy.
NED,
taking the mouse
By Jove! Does this thing really have a peg leg?
By Jove! Does this thing really have a peg leg?
ROSSETTI,
taking it back
It is a prosthetic following a fatal mouse trap accident!
It is a prosthetic following a fatal mouse trap accident!
NED
I don't know what that is supposed to help. Do you have a plan for it?
I don't know what that is supposed to help. Do you have a plan for it?
ROSSETTI
I will leave it right here... peering out two slices of bread.
I will leave it right here... peering out two slices of bread.
NED
(laughs)
Hush! Hush! I hear footsteps.
Hush! Hush! I hear footsteps.
MORRIS
Are you ready? I am certain you've heard it all before, but I must stop you begging. This is from “The Defence of Guinevere”
The shadow likes like wine within a cup
Of marvellously colour'd gold; yea now...
Are you ready? I am certain you've heard it all before, but I must stop you begging. This is from “The Defence of Guinevere”
The shadow likes like wine within a cup
Of marvellously colour'd gold; yea now...
ROSSETTI
Forgive the intrusion... I must beg you to read like old Swinburne!
Forgive the intrusion... I must beg you to read like old Swinburne!
MORRIS,
exaggerating Swinburne's excited mannerisms, while everyone laughs
The shadow likes like wine within a cup
Of marvellously colour'd gold; yea now
This little wind is rising, look you up,
And wonder how the light is falling so
Within my moving tresses: will you dare,
When you have looked a little on my brow,
To say "this thing is vile?" or will you care
For any plausible lies of cunning woof,
When you can see my face with no lie there
For ever? am I not a gracious proof—
"But in your chamber Launcelot was found"
The shadow likes like wine within a cup
Of marvellously colour'd gold; yea now
This little wind is rising, look you up,
And wonder how the light is falling so
Within my moving tresses: will you dare,
When you have looked a little on my brow,
To say "this thing is vile?" or will you care
For any plausible lies of cunning woof,
When you can see my face with no lie there
For ever? am I not a gracious proof—
"But in your chamber Launcelot was found"
EVERYONE
(claps)
(claps)
ROSSETTI
Tops, your mimics are capital, capital! I cannot determine which I love best between the touching transcendence of your words, or your swinburnian delivery! What a lark.
Tops, your mimics are capital, capital! I cannot determine which I love best between the touching transcendence of your words, or your swinburnian delivery! What a lark.
LIZZIE
My heart vouches for the poem!
My heart vouches for the poem!
SWINBURNE
As does mine – am I truly this restrained? I will have to redouble in flamboyance!
As does mine – am I truly this restrained? I will have to redouble in flamboyance!
NED, starting to draw on a pad
If you succeed, I fear a repeat of the Great London Fire!
If you succeed, I fear a repeat of the Great London Fire!
ROSSETTI
Tops, you must illuminate us about the meaning of the verses.
Tops, you must illuminate us about the meaning of the verses.
MORRIS, clears throat
Guinevere is betrothed to Arthur and accepts him as a convenience more than for love, and once caught in an adulterous situation with Sir Lancelot, she must defend herself against the accusation. I try to reveal love as the principal purveyor of meaning, impulse, and pleasure. It is the on account of the living blood that courses through her veins that Guinevere seeks this love outside the bounds of matrimony. Her accusers are blinded by morality and convention in mericlessly condemning her. However, it is a natural fact that true love is more noble than contrived affection.
Guinevere is betrothed to Arthur and accepts him as a convenience more than for love, and once caught in an adulterous situation with Sir Lancelot, she must defend herself against the accusation. I try to reveal love as the principal purveyor of meaning, impulse, and pleasure. It is the on account of the living blood that courses through her veins that Guinevere seeks this love outside the bounds of matrimony. Her accusers are blinded by morality and convention in mericlessly condemning her. However, it is a natural fact that true love is more noble than contrived affection.
LIZZIE
Assuming true love. I've come to realize... if true love is ever given... it is not on this Earth.
Assuming true love. I've come to realize... if true love is ever given... it is not on this Earth.
GEORGIE
I can't speak of loves true or untrue, but I do believe that it is a very powerful emotion at the root of marriage and the founding of family, which is the basis of all human society, including that of savages.
I can't speak of loves true or untrue, but I do believe that it is a very powerful emotion at the root of marriage and the founding of family, which is the basis of all human society, including that of savages.
MORRIS
Georgie offers a sensible opinion, but upon the whole I agree with Swinburne. Yes, I do! A husband and wife in married life must remain free people, artificial bolstering up of natural human relations is what I object to. Further, any choice one makes in the choosing of a wive should be free of the scrutiny of family members. So many spurious contrivances.
Georgie offers a sensible opinion, but upon the whole I agree with Swinburne. Yes, I do! A husband and wife in married life must remain free people, artificial bolstering up of natural human relations is what I object to. Further, any choice one makes in the choosing of a wive should be free of the scrutiny of family members. So many spurious contrivances.
ROSSETTI
Wholeheartedly agreed!
Wholeheartedly agreed!
NED
Let's not persecute love... love is not especially contrived... all of England is contrived.
Let's not persecute love... love is not especially contrived... all of England is contrived.
LIZZIE discretely wipes a tear
MORRIS
Were it merely contrived, and not woefully shoddy, I might be more of a mind to accept it. This age, this age is the age of shoddy!
Were it merely contrived, and not woefully shoddy, I might be more of a mind to accept it. This age, this age is the age of shoddy!
ROSSETTI
Shoddy machine-made goods, yes, but I have heard some argue that machines are freeing mankind from degrading, repetitive work. What are your thoughts on that?
Shoddy machine-made goods, yes, but I have heard some argue that machines are freeing mankind from degrading, repetitive work. What are your thoughts on that?
MORRIS
It is the allowing machines to be our masters and not our servants that so injures the beauty of life nowadays. Machines can relieve degradations, indeed, but they can just as well compound them, hear? We do make designs that are produced by industrial means, yes, but we are using industry as a tool to disseminate beauty. We'd all want tapestries, but most have to settle for wallpaper.
It is the allowing machines to be our masters and not our servants that so injures the beauty of life nowadays. Machines can relieve degradations, indeed, but they can just as well compound them, hear? We do make designs that are produced by industrial means, yes, but we are using industry as a tool to disseminate beauty. We'd all want tapestries, but most have to settle for wallpaper.
ROSSETTI
You don't have an eye on making wallpapers, do you?.
You don't have an eye on making wallpapers, do you?.
MORRIS
Not at all! I have high hopes that tapestry will enjoy a revival, and embroidery, being emblematic of handmade crafts by the ladies, is well on its way to become the primary means of beautifying a home.
Not at all! I have high hopes that tapestry will enjoy a revival, and embroidery, being emblematic of handmade crafts by the ladies, is well on its way to become the primary means of beautifying a home.
LIZZIE is increasingly fidgety in the
background, GEORGIE sits next to her and they have an inaudible
whispered conversation..
NED
Never say never!
Never say never!
ROSSETTI
I shall say “never” as Topsy's improvised representative.
I shall say “never” as Topsy's improvised representative.
MORRIS
The man has spoken for me!
The man has spoken for me!
SWINBURNE
This is dreadful serious talk for a jolly celebration! Are we to change the world? Once you free your own mind from the shackles, you're all done!
This is dreadful serious talk for a jolly celebration! Are we to change the world? Once you free your own mind from the shackles, you're all done!
ROSSETTI, to Morris
Leading on to even more serious matters, if only to vex poor Swinburne, Tops, I urge your to pursue your explorations of poetry, for you possess a prodigious gift; should you run out of ink, it would be a great loss for future generations. I have no doubt that your name will honourably mentioned along with Homer, Dante Alighieri and Beaudelaire!
Leading on to even more serious matters, if only to vex poor Swinburne, Tops, I urge your to pursue your explorations of poetry, for you possess a prodigious gift; should you run out of ink, it would be a great loss for future generations. I have no doubt that your name will honourably mentioned along with Homer, Dante Alighieri and Beaudelaire!
SWINBURNE
Beaudelaire, you say? Topsy, have you been dipping your pen into the well of sin?
Beaudelaire, you say? Topsy, have you been dipping your pen into the well of sin?
MORRIS
Is the sin in question gluttony? Yes? I will not protest then. As it were, I have gone from peckish to famished and we ought to ravage this spread before it spoils!
Is the sin in question gluttony? Yes? I will not protest then. As it were, I have gone from peckish to famished and we ought to ravage this spread before it spoils!
GEORGIE
You are our host, we are all waiting for you to be first to pluck that table. You start!
You are our host, we are all waiting for you to be first to pluck that table. You start!
MORRIS, grabs a plate and picks some food
You must try these, our cook's savouries are peerless!
You must try these, our cook's savouries are peerless!
MORRIS, noticing the mouse, and grabbing a cover in a drawer
And oh! Oh! Wait... no one move!
And oh! Oh! Wait... no one move!
GEORGIE
What is it? What is it?
What is it? What is it?
MORRIS
Quiet... I've got this... hush...
Quiet... I've got this... hush...
LIZZIE
Oh!
Oh!
MORRIS, slams the cover over the plate, and angrily tosses the
contents of the dish out the window, and shouts to the cook, stomping
his feet
Annie! Annie! You must come to the parlour at once! This is un-ac-cept-able! I have guests!
Annie! Annie! You must come to the parlour at once! This is un-ac-cept-able! I have guests!
EVERYONE (laughs)
MORRIS, looks around suspiciously
I have heard that laughter before... I have seen those impish grins... You... what have you done this time?
I have heard that laughter before... I have seen those impish grins... You... what have you done this time?
ROSSETTI
Ha! We got you again! But you exploded too quickly to notice the peg leg on the stuffed mouse, we're broken-hearted!
Ha! We got you again! But you exploded too quickly to notice the peg leg on the stuffed mouse, we're broken-hearted!
MORRIS
That will teach you a lesson to never underestimate me. Annie! Never mind! If I had any misplaced pride at all, you'd have embarrassed me!
That will teach you a lesson to never underestimate me. Annie! Never mind! If I had any misplaced pride at all, you'd have embarrassed me!
GEORGIE
Ned's pen is scratching furiously. I wonder what he is up to!
Ned's pen is scratching furiously. I wonder what he is up to!
ROSSETTI
Ned, what are you drawing in your corner?
Ned, what are you drawing in your corner?
NED, showing a caricature
See what we have here: Topsy discovers a stuffed mouse!
See what we have here: Topsy discovers a stuffed mouse!
ROSSETTI
That was jolly quick, Ned, oh, oh, how it captures the moment perfectly! Look, Janey!
That was jolly quick, Ned, oh, oh, how it captures the moment perfectly! Look, Janey!
JANEY, laughing
Oh yes, I see.
Oh yes, I see.
ROSSETTI, taking it to Georgie and Lizzie, and Morris moving to take
a peak.
Look! Look! Is that not capital!
Look! Look! Is that not capital!
GEORGIE & MORRIS (laughter), Lizzie smiles a bit and is drowsy on
Georgie's shoulder.
NED, ROSSETTI & SWINBURNE
(get a bit of food from the spread, Swinburne takes some and brings
plates to Georgie & Lizzie, Morris gets a plate and brings it to
Janey.)
ROSSETTI
This is a sad consequence of being last at the table, I've run out of ladies to feed! Ned, you are a genius, even for something as small and informal as a caricature. I wish I could draw half as good as you in twice the time. You are, doubtless, the greatest painter in all of England. I fear to call you prolific, for there is in your case no forfeit in quality – in fact, the more you draw, the higher your star rises in the heavens. I worship at the altar of the delicate detail you spread over miles of canvas. You are the god of painters, I should sacrifice virgin brushes at your temple.
This is a sad consequence of being last at the table, I've run out of ladies to feed! Ned, you are a genius, even for something as small and informal as a caricature. I wish I could draw half as good as you in twice the time. You are, doubtless, the greatest painter in all of England. I fear to call you prolific, for there is in your case no forfeit in quality – in fact, the more you draw, the higher your star rises in the heavens. I worship at the altar of the delicate detail you spread over miles of canvas. You are the god of painters, I should sacrifice virgin brushes at your temple.
SWINBURNE
Oh Gabriel, I should laugh to hear you singing these praises about anyone but Ned!
Oh Gabriel, I should laugh to hear you singing these praises about anyone but Ned!
ROSSETTI
Lizzie too has some outstanding drawings... she learned so much from Ruskin I hardly had to teach her anything at all, she is completely original – a natural luminary. We didn't bring any of your drawings with us, did we?
Lizzie too has some outstanding drawings... she learned so much from Ruskin I hardly had to teach her anything at all, she is completely original – a natural luminary. We didn't bring any of your drawings with us, did we?
LIZZIE (nods negatively)
We did not.
We did not.
ROSSETTI
No? But perhaps... Lizzie, do you have a poem you could recite? This whole room is eager to be dazzled.
No? But perhaps... Lizzie, do you have a poem you could recite? This whole room is eager to be dazzled.
LIZZIE, fidgeting
I have nothing enthralling.
I have nothing enthralling.
ROSSETTI
Oh Lizzie, do not put yourself down, you are phenomenal! Believe it!
Oh Lizzie, do not put yourself down, you are phenomenal! Believe it!
LIZZIE, rises slowly
Well then, here comes your disappointment.
Well then, here comes your disappointment.
GEORGIE
We are all dying to hear you! Aren't we?
We are all dying to hear you! Aren't we?
SWINBURNE
We beg you!
We beg you!
NED
Indeed! We love everything you do.
Indeed! We love everything you do.
LIZZIE, reciting from shaky memory
You are all very kind. I do not have anything on paper; all I have are the last two verses engraved to memory. The title is: Worn Out.
You are all very kind. I do not have anything on paper; all I have are the last two verses engraved to memory. The title is: Worn Out.
I
can but give a failing heart
And weary eyes of pain,
A faded mouth that cannot smile
And may not laugh again.
And weary eyes of pain,
A faded mouth that cannot smile
And may not laugh again.
Yet
keep thine arms around me, love,
Until I fall to sleep;
Then leave me, saying no goodbye
Lest I might wake, and weep.
Until I fall to sleep;
Then leave me, saying no goodbye
Lest I might wake, and weep.
 |
| Then
leave me, saying no goodbye Lest I might wake, and weep. |
EVERYONE
(claps)
NED
Very sad and very lovely, Lizzie. Beautifully done. I am touched.
Very sad and very lovely, Lizzie. Beautifully done. I am touched.
GEORGIE
From such a pure and holy soul!
From such a pure and holy soul!
LIZZE (sits down next to Georgie and leans on her)
GEORGIE
Dear, do you have a fever?
Dear, do you have a fever?
LIZZIE
Oh no, not a fever, only a little nausea... and pain in my bones. Gabriel, in my bag...
Oh no, not a fever, only a little nausea... and pain in my bones. Gabriel, in my bag...
ROSSETTI (urgently fetches her bag)
Here.
Here.
LIZZIE
My laudanum...
My laudanum...
ROSSETTI digs in the bag.
LIZZIE
...quickly... I cannot endure another moment of waiting...
...quickly... I cannot endure another moment of waiting...
ROSSETTI puts the vial of laudanum to her lips, Lizzie drinks some.
Everyone looks deathly worried. Lizzie looks less fidgety, she calms
down, and falls asleep on Georgie's shoulder.
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