A duologue

A classroom piece I wrote that was so powerful when read, a long silence blanketed the class last Tuesday. The actress who played A was slmost in tears. The power of few words, the tension that hinges on the pauses and the unsaid is far greater than all the words you can ever put together.

Don't go

A: When are you leaving?

B: This weekend.

A: So soon?

B: Yes. There’s not much point staying here anyway.

A: Oh…

(silence)

B: Is something wrong?

A: Nothing’s wrong.

B: You sure?

A: I’m sure.

(silence)

B: Alright, then I guess I …

A: Err… I…

(silence)

B: Is there something you want to tell me?

A: No.

(silence)

B: Oh…in that case I think I…

A: No wait!

B: Is there something you want to tell me?

A: I…

B: Yes…?

A: I don’t want you to leave.

(silence)

B: (laughs) And why is that so?

A: Because…

B: Yes…?

A: Because I’m…I’m still in love with you.

(long silence)

B: (lets out a sigh) I love you too, but we’ve been through this before. You…me…we….it’s just not possible.

A: I know.

B: I’m sorry.

A: No, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to complicate your life.

B: You already did, but it’s over and we should move on.

A: Is that why you are leaving?

B: No.

(silence)

A: Don’t lie to me.

B: Why would I do that?

A: Because you don’t want to break my heart.

(silence)

A: Do you really have to leave?

B: Yes.

A: Why?

B: Because I want to.

A: Oh.

(silence)

A: I guess nothing I say will make a difference then.

B: I’m sorry.

A: I should go (turns to leave, with tears).

B: Hey…

A: Yes?

B: You take care of yourself.

A: I will.

B: Bye.

A: Bye.

(B walks away, leaving A standing alone)