"The Moment" Screenplay
Text / [UK] David Hale
Translated by Luo Jiao
England, Sussex, 1941
The river, a country house not far away. March 28, a gloomy and gray morning. Stepping out of the house was a scrawny 59-year-old woman in a large leather-collared coat, trotting briskly across the lawn and through the grassy fields. The woman resolutely walked towards the established destination.
the river above
The woman came to the shore and walked with difficulty towards the murky, dark brown water. The elegant, utterly out of place women's loafers sank into the mud. The woman was pale and lifeless. She walked to the water's edge and looked around. There was a rock the size of a pig's skull on the ground. The woman picked up the stone and stuffed it awkwardly into her coat pocket. Then he turned around without taking off his shoes and walked straight into the water.
Munch Manor
Leonard Wolf has just returned from the garden. At this time he was 61 years old. He was wearing mud-stained flannel trousers and a jumper. This is a typical aging intellectual - serious, unfocused, with a high forehead and thin-rimmed glasses. He walked absentmindedly into the hall at the back of the house and began to take off his boots without any suspicion.
On the mantelpiece were two blue envelopes, one with "Leonard" and the other "Vanessa." Leonard picked up the letter with his name on it and was shocked.
The living room is decorated in a simple and artistic style. The young maid came into the room, ignorant of the story that was about to unfold.
Maid: Sir, are you ready for dinner?
Leonard: Not now. a little later.
The maid walks away. Leonard opened the envelope in a panic, unfolding two pages of blue letterhead.
Voice of Virginia (reading letter): Honey, I believe I'm going crazy again. I feel that this time we will not be able to weather the storm. I started to hear some noises and had trouble concentrating. So I did what I thought was the right thing to do.
Leonard raised his eyes and Zhang Huang was at a loss.
Virginia's Voice: ...I am happier than anyone in the world because of you. you are my Everything. I know I ruined your life and you could work without me. You will work, I know that.
Leonard rushed to the aisle, put on his boots, ran out the back door, and trotted across the lawn. When he saw the river, he was terrified and ran with all his strength.
Virginia's Voice: You see, I can't even write a letter. I can't read. I just want to say to you that all the happiness in my life is yours. You are so patient and considerate with me. I have nothing but to believe in your goodness. I can no longer drag your life down, I think, no two people are happier than us.
Leonard stood by the river. He saw the footprints left by the women's shoes in the mud, and looked at the calm water.
Virginia's voice: ... Virginia.
Virginia Wolfe's corpse spun like a wheel in the fair, flowing with the waves face down. Her hair was loose, and her coat was nowhere to be found. Like Ophelia surrounded by a wreath of wild flowers, the corpse spun down the river, was blocked by a reef, stopped abruptly, hunched over like a child, and was washed away again by the current. Finally stopped at the bridge pier. A line of military trucks full of soldiers was passing on the bridge at this time. The soldiers did not notice a body floating under the bridge.
Los Angeles, 1951, early morning
A food truck drives down a suburban road. The sun has just risen. A car drove across from the truck and stopped in front of a solitary bungalow whose serenity and serenity reflected a familiar image of postwar America. The car stopped, and Dan Brown got out of the car—a burly, likable American man who had just turned 30. He was wearing trousers and a white shirt with an open neckline and a bouquet of roses in his hands. He entered through the front door and passed the living room, which was decorated in pink tones and furnished with several pieces of kitchen furniture. He reached for the vase and looked through the open door to the darkened bedroom at the back of the house. A few wisps of light shone through the windows, allowing one to discern what was going on inside the house. Laura Brown is sleeping in bed. (She's a few years older than Dan, short, angular, slender and weak.) Laura rolled over in her sleep.
Hogarth Manor, Richmond, 1923, early morning
Leonard Wolf, 43, walked through the church with a newspaper and a small stack of letters and parcels. This suburban neighbourhood half an hour from London is shrouded in flowers and greenery. Facing Leonard were the early morning passengers: men in dark coats were rushing to the station. Adjacent to the church is a low grey stone house. The thick walls stood still in the morning light.
Leonard opened the door and walked through the hall with paintings hanging on the walls. He put down the parcels and letters. At this time, a man in his 60s and wearing a dark coat came down the stairs, carrying a bag commonly used by doctors. The doctor walked up to Leonard in order to have a few words with him.
Leonard: Ah, doctor, good morning.
Doctor: Mr. Wolfe, I don't think it's getting worse. Most importantly, don't irritate her.
Leonard: Hmm. So, see you on Friday?
Doctor: See you on Friday.
The corridor on the second floor is open, and opposite the corridor railing is the room where the doctor just came out. The curtains in the bedroom were closed and a woman, Virginia Wolfe, 41, lay on the bed. She stared intently at the ceiling.
New York, 2001, early morning
The subway whizzed by. There was only one woman left on the platform. The sun was slowly rising over West Tenth Street, one of Greenwich's greenest and most pleasant streets. Tall, dark-haired, energetic, 40-year-old woman in a leather jacket and jeans - Sally Lister is walking briskly down the street in the early morning. Sally approached a brick building with a balcony, stepped up from the main entrance, and opened the door to her apartment on the ground floor. Walk past the quiet, simple yet atmospheric living room with pottery, pine woodwork, many books, and walk down the aisle into the bedroom, where the walls are painted in warm tones. Sunlight began to stream in through the gaps in the heavy shutters. Sally undressed as she walked, leaving only her tank top and shorts. She crawled into the covers, trying not to wake Clarissa Vaughn, who was lying next to her (she was nearly fifty, taller and more attractive than Saree). Clarissa remained unresponsive, but a moment after Sally lay down, she opened her eyes.
2001, 1951 and 1923
Dan Brown stood in front of the bathroom mirror and tied his tie.
Clarissa, who was wearing white pajamas, lifted the quilt and got up, walked into the bathroom, and rolled her hair as she walked.
Laura woke up and reached for a book by the bed. The title of the book is clearly visible through the close-up: Mrs. Dealloway.
Virginia is standing in front of the bedroom mirror in her robe. After a short pause, she raised her hand to straighten her hair.
Water fell from the sprinkler on Clarissa's face, and she fumbled for the faucet in the mist.
Dan put the cutlery on the table, then went to the cabinet, poured a spoonful of Nescafé into the cup, and added boiling water.
Clarissa walked into the kitchen in her bathrobe and filled the coffee maker. The kitchen sink is full of live crabs.
Virginia finished washing, looked critically at herself in the mirror, and went out into the hallway, where she stood for a moment on the upper steps.
Clarissa walked into the living room, stood in the middle of the room, adjusted the lights with the remote, then turned on the radio to the classical music station.
Lola straightened her pillow and enjoyed her reading. A sound from the kitchen caught her attention.
The three women fell silent at the same time: Virginia stopped...Clarissa looked around the room with satisfaction...Lola listened...
One thing upset Clarissa—a bunch of withered flowers stood pitifully in the corner. She shook her head angrily.
Dan took the roses from the sink and placed the vase on the dining table. At the same time, the Wolf's maid also placed a vase on the table, but in the vase were cornflowers.
Hogarth House, 1923
There was a bottle of cornflowers on the table in the hall. Leonard Wolfe revises the manuscript over coffee and toast. Hearing Virginia's footsteps, he looked up.
Virginia: Good morning, Leonard.
Leonard: Good morning, Virginia. How was your sleep?
Virginia: All right.
Leonard: Does your head hurt?
Virginia: No, no.
Leonard: The doctor seems satisfied.
Virginia (pours a cup of tea, nods at the mail): These were all received this morning?
Leonard: Yes. A young man sent a manuscript. I've only reached the fourth page, and I've found three inaccuracies and two spelling errors.
Leonard stared at Virginia and found that she wasn't going to sit down.
Leonard: Have you had breakfast yet?
Virginia: Yes.
Leonard: Lie. (Not in a serious tone, but in the gentle, euphemistic way typical of trained paramedics) Virginia, the problem is not that I want to stand my ground. That's what your doctor ordered.
Virginia watched him silently.
Leonard: I'll tell Nellie to bring you raisin bread and fruit.
Virginia looked at Leonard stubbornly.
Leonard: All right. We have lunch together. It is customary for the couple to sit together at the dining table, drinking soup, pudding and other things. I can also use force if necessary.
Virginia: Leonard, I thought, would you allow me to write something?
Leonard looked her in the eyes and knew how stubborn she was.
Leonard: Well, let's work. But then you have to eat.
Virginia went into her humble, peaceful study, sat down, and took the clipboard, ink bottle, and fountain pen. Light a cigarette. Then, inspired, she opened the clean writing pad. blank page. There was a smug look on Virginia's face. Before writing, she read aloud: "Mrs. Dealloway said she went to buy flowers herself."
Brown House, Los Angeles, 1951
Laura was lying on the bed, enjoying the loneliness of a person. She took the book "Mrs. Delloway" by the bed, opened it, and smiled for the pleasure of reading to come.
Lola (reading aloud): "Mrs. Dealloway said she went to buy flowers herself."
Clarissa's Apartment, New York, 2001
Clarissa stood in the middle of the living room, frowning, as if deciding what to do. Then turned to Sally in the other room.
Clarissa: Sally! Otherwise, I'll go buy the flowers myself.
Sally was still sleeping on the bed, not quite understanding what she was talking about.
Sally: What? what flower? (suddenly remembers what day it is today, and gets out of bed) Oh, hell, I forgot... (falls back on the bed)
Brown House, 1951
A 5-year-old boy watched as the corn grits poured onto the plate. Lola and Dan's son, Rich, are sitting at the table while Dan is preparing breakfast. Richie was a sensitive, small boy whose face could not hide his changing emotions. Dan was wearing a shirt and tie, his suit draped neatly over the back of his chair.
Dan: Well, son. If you don't eat breakfast, you'll never grow up to be a big kid.
Richie: Will mom get up today?
Dan: Of course. Of course, Mom will get up. She just needs more rest. Look, isn't she here?
Really, Lola appeared at the door. It can be seen that she is pregnant. Seeing the roses on the table, Laura shook her head. There was something oddly restrained about her movements.
Lola: Happy birthday.
Dan: Good morning, dear.
Lola: Oh, Dan. rose flower. on your own birthday. Really shouldn't.
Dan: You're here, and now he'll eat everything at once. (points to Richie)
Lola: Today is your birthday. You shouldn't go and buy me flowers.
Dan: Ho, you were still sleeping.
Laura: So what?
Dan: We decided to give you enough sleep. is it?
Dan smiled slyly at his son. Lola leaned over and kissed Richie.
Lola: Good morning, baby.
Dan: You need more rest. It's only been four months.
Laura: I'm fine. real! Just a little tired.
Dan gently touched her belly. Lola smiled, but avoided him. Lola poured herself a cup of coffee. Dan slipped his suit over his snow-white shirt, ready to go to work.
Dan: I told him I should have breakfast.
Lola: Yes.
Dan: What a wonderful weather. I want to know, what are you going to do today?
Lola: Oh, we already have a plan.
Dan: What plan?
Laura: If I told you everything, there would be no surprises.
Dan: Then I'd better keep silent. (Ricky laughs, that's what Dan's show is for) Oh, bye. I'm leaving.
Dan looked at the watch. This is a ritual that is routine every morning. He picked up his purse and walked quickly to the door.
Lola: Good luck.
Dan: So are you.
Lola: Dan...
Dan stopped at the door.
Lola: Happy birthday.
Dan: Thank you. (Leave)
Dan was gone, and the room was silent. Richie looked at his mother. With only her and Richie left, Lola seemed a little nervous. Lola waved goodbye to Dan from the window, then turned to her son.
Laura: Finish breakfast.
Richie: I'm done.
Laura sat down at the table. Richie looked at her expectantly.
Lola: Well, maybe, it should be a cake. Just do this. Make a cake for Dad's birthday.
Richie: Mom, can I help you?
Laura: Um...
Richie: Can I make a cake for you?
Laura frowned slightly, as if troubled by her son's enthusiasm.
Laura: Of course, baby. How can I do it without your help? ...
New York, 2001
Clarissa's house is almost full of manuscripts and books. Sally looked out of the bedroom while slipping on her jeans. Clarissa can be heard on the phone.
Clarissa: Yes, of course, you have to come. This is what I'm talking about. I've always wanted you to come. And everyone who attended the ceremony...
Clarissa nodded to greet Sally. Sally turned and walked into the kitchen.
Clarissa: ...I don't know. About sixty people. Yes, very important. At least, I invite everyone to dinner. Just to say thank you. Do not worry. Of course.
Sally brews coffee for herself in the kitchen and sees crabs wriggling in the pool.
Sally: God, what if no one comes? We won't be able to eat all these crabs in a month.
Sally returned to the room with a cup of coffee in both hands. Clarissa is still trying to convince her. Sally was silent and winked at her.
Clarissa: ...Oh, I assume you agree. Very good. I am very happy. Brilliant.
Sally smiled sympathetically, thinking that this was a typical Clarissa conversation.
West Tenth Street
sunny. Clarissa appeared at the top of a few steps in front of the apartment. The weather is wonderful.
Washington Square
Clarissa walked down Fifth Avenue in high spirits. Rappers walked past her, skateboarders slipped past. Several pedestrians greeted her. At least in this block, everyone is familiar with her. She was on her cell phone and continued to prepare for the evening party.
Clarissa: I'm Clarissa Vaughan. Yes, I want to confirm the car you sent to pick me up. Yes, let's go...
Passerby: Hello, Clarissa!
Clarissa: Hello, hello, I don't have time to chat right now. (waves. Talks to cell phone) ... we're going to 675 Hudson Street. right. At Fourteenth Avenue and Ninth Street. Then go to the center. Then you have to wait for me. It's all over by 7 o'clock.
Clarissa avoided traffic and walked across Spring Avenue to a flower shop splendidly decorated with baskets of summer flowers. Clarissa pushed the door hard and walked in.
Entering the flower shop, she raised her hand slightly to greet the female shopkeeper, a pale 50-year-old brunette named Barbara.
Clarissa: Flowers! What a wonderful morning!
Barbara kissed Clarissa, and they embraced in a relaxed, natural way.
Barbara: Hello Clarissa! how are things?
Clarissa: I'm planning a party! My friend Richard won the Caluther Award.
Barbara: Great! But what kind of award is this?
Clarissa: This is an award in the field of poetry. Reward contributions to art. very authoritative. It is the highest award a poet can receive.
Barbara: Great.
Clarissa was very proud of Richard, but Barbara was already pointing the flowers.
Barbara: So what flowers do you want? We have a variety of lilies...
Clarissa: No. Lily is too morbid. Maybe hydrangeas are more suitable. Or a basket of roses. Go for it. Just have fun, no need to save. (Picks out a bunch of flowers) I'll take this bunch.
Barbara took out a handful of yellow roses and placed them on the counter, while the assistant took the flowers that Clarissa had chosen. Clarissa walked to the far corner. Barbara trims the branches and wraps the flowers.
Barbara: I tried to read Richard's novel.
Clarissa: Really? I know, it's hard to read.
Barbara didn't ignore her implication, but still smiled sincerely.
Clarissa: He wrote for ten years.
Barbara: I think so too. And it will take ten years to read it.
Clarissa smiled and walked to the counter to get the flowers.
Barbara: Is that you?
Clarissa: Where?
Barbara: In a novel? Didn't he write about you?
Clarissa: Ah, this. it's me. (shrugs, satisfied and shy) Well, part of it is. Know that Richard is a writer. He describes what really happens in life.
Barbara: Yes.
Clarissa: Indeed, we were college classmates many years ago. But he rewrote some facts.
Barbara: Indeed.
Clarissa: I'm not saying he's broken.
Barbara looked at her. Clarissa frowned.
Clarissa: Rather, he made them his own.
Hogarth House, 1923
Virginia Wolfe sat in her study with a pen in hand, muttering to herself—
Virginia: A Woman's Life...
Spring Avenue, 2001
Clarissa walked out of the flower shop with flowers.
Virginia's Voice: ...condensed in one day...
Brown House, Kitchen, 1951
Lola sat at the dining table, flipping through a cookbook.
Virginia's Voice: There's only one day...that day is her life.
Richie ran into the kitchen and climbed onto his mother's lap.
New York, 2001
Clarissa walked past the meat market, still holding the bouquet. She crossed the road full of refrigerated trucks and approached a red-painted building towering over the intersection.
From the upstairs window, a man in a robe opened the curtains and watched Clarissa approaching the building.
Clarissa approached the gate sandwiched between two fire escapes with firm, firm steps. She unlocked the door with the key and entered the small, empty, stuffy front room. The fluorescent lights on the ceiling flickered. Clarissa walked to the dark, dilapidated freight elevator, closed the door, and drove up.
Clarissa rang the doorbell at Richard's house and pressed her ear to the door.
RICHARD'S VOICE: Is that you, Mrs Delloway?
Clarissa: Yes, it's me.
Richard's Voice: Come in.
Clarissa unlocked the door with her key and walked into a dark penthouse, which was a dimly lit kitchen and bathroom. Clarissa walked cautiously into another room—the living room. On an old sofa chair covered with towels, which was about to fall apart, by the window, sat a man with a haggard and pale face. Richard was nearly 50 years old and was dying of AIDS. Thin beams of light coming through the curtains illuminated his pompous head, boxer nose, and high forehead. He wears a blue robe painted with rockets and astronauts. The interior is shabby and cluttered, with almost no decoration. The abode of a man who was soon to live.
Clarissa: Richard, what a beautiful morning. Or, add a little shine?
Richard: Is it still morning?
Clarissa: Still.
Clarissa drew one of the curtains open. Richard faced the sun, trembling slightly.
Richard: Am I dead? still alive?
Clarissa leaned over and kissed his forehead.
Richard: Good morning, dear.
Clarissa: Has anyone here today?
Richard: Yes.
Clarissa: Are they still here?
Richard: No, it's gone.
Clarissa: What do they look like?
Richard: Today? like black flames. A combination of light and darkness. Similar to electric jellyfish.
Clarissa looked at him for a moment, then picked up the flower.
Richard: They are singing. Maybe in Czech.
Clarissa: You're not sleeping.
Richard: What a dream.
CLARISSA (goes to the kitchen): I saw three tits on the way here. Is this a good sign?
Richard: Do you believe in omens? Signs only make sense when someone is watching us. Do you think anyone is watching us? And give us signs? (makes a smile-like expression, he's amused by the thought) I'd say it makes people happy.
Clarissa: The ceremony begins at 5 o'clock. Did you not forget?
Richard: Me? Did not forget?
Clarissa: Then there was a party.
Clarissa arranged the flowers and went back to the room. She looked at Richard with the stoic, apprehensive look of a paramedic. A number of pills were neatly arranged on the small table next to him.
Clarissa: Did you bring breakfast to you?
Richard: What a question. Of course.
Clarissa: Have you eaten, Richard?
Richard: Did you see the breakfast? Where do you think it is?
Clarissa: I didn't see it.
Richard: So I ate it.
Clarissa: I hope so.
Richard: Is there any difference?
Clarissa: Of course not. You know, this is what the doctor ordered. you don't take medicine?
Clarissa frowned suspiciously and saw the neatly arranged pills on the table, but Richard was suddenly very annoyed and ignored her question.
Richard: Clarissa, I can't stand it.
Clarissa: Endure what?
Richard: I can't pretend to be proud and happy in front of people.
Clarissa: Honey, it's not a show.
Richard: What is that? That's how I got the award.
Clarissa: Don't talk nonsense.
Richard: I was awarded because I had AIDS and was insane, but not desperate. I got an award for what I had to endure.
Clarissa: Not so.
Richard: I survived. Just because of this. Do you think I'd win the prize if I was healthy?
Clarissa: Yes, of course, I think so.
Richard had a mocking look on his face.
Richard: Is it here?
Clarissa: What?
Richard: Trophies. I want to see.
Clarissa: You haven't got it yet. The awards are tonight.
Richard: Are you sure? I remember the awards ceremony vividly. It looks like I've got the timing mixed up.
CLARISSA (trying to be patient) Richard, it's a party. just a party. Those who attend are those who respect you and appreciate you.
Richard: A small gathering? Selective?
Clarissa: For your friends.
Richard: You know, I've lost all my friends. I probably drove them crazy. (reaching out and stroking the flowers) "Oh, Mrs Deloway, you always throw balls to hide the silence..."
Clarissa was slightly taken aback by his unkindness, but quickly calmed down and suppressed the anger in her heart.
Clarissa: Richard, you don't have to do anything. Just sit on the couch. I will be there too. We all come together to say that your work will live on forever.
Richard: Is it? Will my work be immortal? (looking at her unceremoniously) I can't stand it, Clarissa.
Clarissa: Why do you say that?
Richard: I can't.
Clarissa: Why?
Richard: Because I want to be a writer, that's why.
Clarissa: So what?
Richard stood up and struggled around the room on crutches.
Richard: I wish to write everything down. everything that happened. How these flowers look when you hold them, these towels, how they smell, how they feel—how well woven, our emotions, yours and mine. The story of our past. About everything in the world, all this mess. (with tears in his eyes) But I failed. I can not. Regardless of the beginning, it ends with nothing. And damn pride and stupidity.
Richard fell back down on the sofa. Clarissa looked at him with mixed emotions of helplessness.
Richard: We always want to have everything, right?
Clarissa: Yes, maybe.
Richard: You kissed me on the beach that day...
Clarissa: Yes.
Richard: Do you remember?
Clarissa: Of course.
Richard: How many years have passed?
Clarissa shook her head, full of tenderness, unable to answer.
Richard: What were you thinking at the time?
Clarissa still didn't answer, she was as sad as Richard.
Richard: Come here, come a little closer.
Clarissa: I'm right here.
Richard: Hold my hand.
Clarissa took his bony hand.
Richard: Are you mad?
Clarissa: If you don't go to the party?
Richard: No, would you be mad if I died?
Clarissa: If you die? Would I be angry if you died?
Richard: Who is this party for?
Clarissa: What did you say? For whom? What do you want to ask? What are you trying to express?
Richard: I'm not going to express anything! I'll just say it!
This time Clarissa was horrified.
Richard: I think I'm only here for you.
CLARISSA (looking at him in shock): All right. Not bad at all. This is normal. People live for each other. The doctor said you shouldn't die. He said so. A situation like yours can live for many years.
Richard: Like this.
Richard smiled wryly. Clarissa shook her head, firm this time.
Clarissa: I don't accept it. I do not accept your statement.
Richard: What? Is it up to you to decide what I say?
Clarissa: No.
Richard: How long have you been doing this?
Clarissa: What did I do?
Richard: How many years have you been with me? How is your own life? What about Sally? When I die, you'll have to think about your life.
Clarissa didn't answer. Richard smiled, confident in his words.
Richard: What, do you like it?
Clarissa let go of his hand in a panic. Richard was still staring at her. Clarissa stood up excitedly and said quickly: "Richard, it would be great if you could come. If you have the energy to come. Tell you, I have crabs. Although it makes no difference to you.
Richard: Of course there are differences. I like to eat crab.
Clarissa was about to leave, but Richard stopped her: "Clarissa!"
Clarissa: What's the matter?
Richard raised his hand slightly, hoping she would kiss him. Clarissa kissed Richard's lips softly, as if afraid of hurting him, then pressed her shoulders.
Clarissa: I'll change your clothes at 3:30.
Richard: Great.
Clarissa leaves. There was a sound of the door closing. Richard was left alone.
Richard: Great.
Clarissa walked to the elevator with her sunglasses on, brooding over the conversation. Stepping into the elevator, she looked up in despair. The elevator descends downward.
Hogarth Manor, Virginia's Study, 1923
Virginia Wolfe was still sitting behind the desk, but the first few pages of the notebook were densely filled with words. She muttered to herself again.
Virginia: On this day, as usual, she realized her destiny...
A heavy knock at the door interrupted Virginia's thoughts. Without waiting for an answer, Nellie Boxer—a tall, ruddy woman—pushed in, wearing an apron and looking arrogant.
Nellie: I'm sorry, Mrs. Wolfe, Mr. Wolfe asked me to come and talk to you.
Virginia: Not sure why he did that.
Nellie was poised, ignoring Virginia's tone.
Virginia: Nellie, I'm almost done. Wait for me in the kitchen, I'll be down soon.
Virginia went down the stairs. She stopped and leaned against the wall next to the kitchen, preparing for the conversation she was about to face. The chatter of Nellie and Lottie came from the kitchen.
Nellie: Every time, she says she needs something, but she doesn't want anything...
Lottie: Did she never need anything?
Nellie: Especially when she's desperate for something. This is a reliable signal.
Lottie: Too bad I wasn't there.
Nellie: I feel sorry for that too.
The two women laughed. Virginia mustered her courage.
Lottie: Did you stare at her? Like what you're good at?
Nellie: I said: Madam...
But before Nellie could finish, Virginia interrupted her by appearing at the door. Nellie is rolling out the dough and cutting the raw lamb into large pieces. Lottie was working nearby. She was not yet 20 years old, and the clothes were the same as Nellie's.
Virginia: By the way, Nellie, how can I help you?
Virginia went to the table, trying not to get out of control.
Nellie: I'm preparing lunch.
Virginia: Oops.
Nellie: I made the decision myself.
Virginia: Understood. (Smells the smell of raw mutton, and flashes away) You decide to grill the patties?
Nellie: Lamb patties.
Virginia: Good choice.
Nellie: You've been busy with your own writing.
Virginia did not answer. Lottie went on quietly doing her work.
Nellie: I didn't get any instructions. I think, these pears can be used for pudding, of course, if you have no other use.
Virginia: Pears are just right for pudding.
Nellie spread the reconciled noodles on the baking tray, proving herself to be a qualified cook with her actions.
Virginia: Remember, my sister and family arrived at 4 o'clock?
Nellie: Yes, ma'am, I didn't forget.
Virginia: Prepare Chinese tea. And ginger candy.
Nellie hesitated. This did not escape Lottie's eyes.
Nellie: Ginger candy, ma'am?
Virginia: I want to entertain the children well.
Nellie: Ginger candy has to go to London. I'm not done with this yet, and have a lot to prepare for lunch.
Virginia (looking resolutely): Nellie, take the 12:30 train and you'll be in London just after two. If I can catch the train from London at 2:30, I will be back in Richmond at 3:00. Am I right?
Nellie: No.
Virginia: That's fine.
It was a battle of wills, and Nellie did not move.
Virginia: What's going on? Nellie, what's the problem?
Virginia's nerves were tense, but she knew she had won. Nellie dropped the rolling pin.
Virginia: What could be more enjoyable than a trip to London?
Virginia went downstairs to the printing room. The room was full of manuscripts. Leonard frowned and sat in the middle of the messy house looking at the proofs. Next to him was Ralph Partridge, a likable young man. He was working on a manual printing press soaked in ink.
Virginia: Good morning.
Ralph: Good morning, Mrs. Wolfe.
Ralph was delighted that her visit took away the tension in the room.
Leonard: I will never publish a new author's work again. Let me tell you, I found ten mistakes on the first page of the manuscript.
Virginia: Good thing you found them, Leonard.
Leonard: "Paschendel is a mortuary from which no 'ren' can survive." Do you think poor handwriting leads to mistakes?
Virginia (laughs): If it's all right, I'll go for a walk.
Leonard: Not going far?
Virginia: No. Just take a breath of air.
Leonard agreed with an imperceptible look.
Leonard: Okay, let's go. I would be so happy if I had time to go for a morning walk too.
Virginia hesitated for a moment, then left. Ralph watched her go.
Paradise Road
There is an elementary school near Hoggs Manor, and children are playing on the playground at this time. Virginia strolled along the sidewalk by the wall, her mind filled with many thoughts. She took a few steps, stopped unknowingly, and said to herself, "She has to die. She has to die. That's all."
A passer-by passed by and found this graceful woman talking to herself. Virginia looked at two little girls playing on the school playground. One was whispering something serious to the other. Both were attentive.
Virginia: ...that's it. She is going to kill herself. She committed suicide for a little thing.
Brown House, Kitchen, 1951
Lola was still in her nightgown with an apron over it. She sat there, frowning, reading the cookbook intently. On the side are the necessities of making the cake - eggs, a baking sheet, sugar and a few pale blue pots. Yet she couldn't make up her mind. Rich sat next to him and waited patiently.
Lola: Let's think about it.
Richie: Mom, you should grease the pan first.
Lola: Honey, I know I should grease the pan. Even I know this.
She picked up everything decisively. Richie frowned.
Lola: Good, we're going to do it. Flour, pot, sieve.
Richie: Mom, can I do it?
Laura: Do you want to sift the flour? (smiles) Sure, you can sift the flour, boy, if you're happy.
Richie: I want to sieve.
Lola: All right. Come forward.
Lola hands the sieve to Rich and pours in the flour. Richie is highly focused. A fine white powder is sprinkled in a blue porcelain basin.
Laura: Pretty, isn't it? Like white snow. (restarting researching the recipe) And then this. I'll show you a demonstration. Hold the measuring cup.
Richie: Mom, it's not difficult at all.
Laura: I know, baby. I know it's not difficult. Just...I want to make this for dad.
Richie: Because it's his birthday.
Lola: Of course. We make a cake to show we love him.
Richie: Otherwise he wouldn't know we love him?
Laura stared at her son for a moment.
Lola: Exactly.
Clarissa's Apartment, 2001
The room is filled with furniture moved from the living room to make room for parties. Clarissa sat motionless on the stool, still not recovering from her meeting with Richard. Sally walked into the room radiant with a pile of dry-cleaned clothes and a few bags.
Sally: I got it all. God, there are so many people. Why do people like to talk about dry cleaning so much? What's there to talk about? (Goes into the bedroom, throws the washed clothes on the bed, and takes the bag to the kitchen) I bought flowers for you.
Sally finds that Clarissa has already bought it before her. Sally threw a small bouquet of flowers she bought next to Clarissa's larger one.
Sally: where are you?
Clarissa: Here.
Sally (begins to organize the contents of the bag): I've agreed to change the shift. I've been with you all night.
Clarissa was silent, and Sally began to feel uneasy.
Sally: Are you okay?
Clarissa: Of course.
Sally laughed to herself, not paying too much attention to Clarissa's bad mood.
Sally: Meet Richard?
Clarissa: Yes.
Sally: Needless to say. He must have said, "By the way, do you mind if I don't go to the party?"
Clarissa nodded. Sally nodded at the same time she was sorting bags in another room.
Clarissa: Yeah, of course.
Sally: Did Richard not want to win the award in the end? Missed the opportunity to talk about your work? I don't think so. He will show up. (Continues busy, finds a list on the table indicating who sits where) You seated everyone?
Clarissa: Yes.
Sally: Incredible. Louis Waters. Richard's ex-boyfriend? Will he come?
Clarissa: Will come.
Sally: You let me sit next to him. Why do I always have to sit with my ex-lover? Darling, what is this, a hint? In the final analysis, ex-lovers can be put together. So that they can talk about the past.
Sally appeared in the doorway of the other bedroom. Clarissa looked up.
Sally: Okay, I'm leaving. Be careful not to pass out nervously. Clarissa, everything will be fine.
Clarissa: Thank you.
Sally: You're welcome.
Sally turned to leave. Leaving Clarissa alone in the silent room.
Clarissa: Why everything is not right.
Brown House, 1951
Lola looked at the finished cake. It's worse than expected. She was going to write "Happy Birthday Dan," in cream, but it came out crooked and the cream layer was covered in crumbs.
Lola (barely audible): Failed. Heck! All failed.
Suddenly the doorbell rang. Lola saw the figure of a woman outside the door from the window. She was a little nervous, looking in the mirror and seeing what looked like something unfortunate had happened to her, which made her even more alarmed. Richie ran into the kitchen with a plastic toy.
Richie: Mom! mother! someone is coming.
Laura hesitated for a few seconds, opened the door, and tried to act as if everything was okay.
At the door was Kitty. She was slightly younger than Lola, with a composed air. Kitty has a sexy appearance, accentuated by makeup and clothing.
Lola: Hello Kitty!
Kitty: Hello. I didn't bother you, did I?
Laura: Of course not. Please come in.
Kitty: How are you?
Kitty came in. She was right: Lola looked a little overwhelmed.
Lola: Oh, of course.
Kitty: Hello, Richie.
Laura: Please take a seat. Have coffee, would you like it?
Kitty: Okay.
Richie sat on the ground watching them. Kitty sat down at the table and found the big piece of cake.
Kitty: Look, you made a cake.
Lola: I know. It fails somewhat. I thought it would work. Thought it would do better.
Kitty: Laura, I really don't understand why you can't do it.
Laura: I don't understand it myself.
Kitty: Everyone makes cakes.
Lola: I know.
Kitty: Everyone does. It's very simple. You must have not greased the pan.
Laura: I oiled it.
Kitty smiled. Laura took out a cup and poured coffee.
Kitty: But you have other strengths. Dan loves you so much, even though he doesn't realize it. Whatever you do, he'll say it's great.
Lola looked at her disapprovingly and handed her the cup.
Kitty: It's a fact.
Lola: Does Ray have a birthday?
Kitty: Of course.
Lola: When?
Kitty: October. We go to the country club. We often go to country clubs. We drank martinis and spent the day with fifty friends.
Lola: Ray has many friends.
Kitty: Indeed.
Lola: How is Ray? Haven't seen him for a long time.
Kitty: He's fine. Ok. (both laughing at the same time) We men are amazing, aren't we?
Laura: You said this again. Don't they deserve it when they return from the battlefield? After going through so many things?
Kitty: What do they deserve?
Laura: I don't know. Like us. all of these.
Lola pointed around with her ring. Kitty nodded to the book Mrs Delloway laying on the table.
Kitty: Oh, are you reading?
Lola: Yes.
Kitty: What was written?
Lola: As for a woman, she's...well, she's a housewife, very confident. She wants to throw a party. Then... probably because she was too confident, everyone thought there would be no problem. And that's not the case.
Kitty picked up the book and glanced at Lola. The conversation was temporarily interrupted.
Laura: So...
Kitty: Um...
Lola: Kitty, what happened?
Kitty (pulling up courage): I'm going to the hospital.
Lola: Kitty...
Kitty: I have a lesion...in the womb. They want to see what it is.
Lola: When?
Kitty: Today.
Lola kept looking at her, not knowing how to answer.
Kitty: Can you help me feed the dog?
Lola: Of course.
There was silence for a moment. Kitty put her house key on the table.
Lola: You're here for this?
Kitty didn't answer.
Laura: What did the doctor say?
Kitty: Maybe that's why I can't get pregnant.
Kitty, not used to talking to people so frankly, looked at Lola for a moment.
Kitty: The thing is, I want to say, I'm really happy with Ray, but...now there's a reason...there's a reason I can't get pregnant. Lola, you are in luck. I think you can only be a real woman if you have a baby.
Lola looked down at her stomach. Kitty turned her head away.
Kitty: The funny thing is, I can do anything in my life - what I'm saying is, I can do anything I want...really, never had a problem...except this one that I most want to do thing.
Laura: Yeah.
Kitty: Hey, that's it.
Lola: At least, they now know how to give you the right medicine.
Kitty: Oh, yes. Prescribe the right medicine.
Lola: Of course.
Kitty rubbed her thumb with her index finger, as if wiping away imaginary dirt.
Kitty: I'm not worried. What's the use of worrying?
Laura: Of course, it's not up to you.
Kitty: Yeah, it all depends on a doctor I've never seen...
Lola: Kitty...
Kitty: ...a surgeon who drinks more than Ray and always has to go to the golf course with a six club. whatever that means. (trying to suppress his emotions) And I, of course, worry about Ray.
Lola: Come over here.
But in fact Lola walked up to Kitty herself. Lola leaned over to embrace Kitty. Kitty also wrapped her arms around her waist. The two women support each other. Lola was almost on her knees so that she could be at the same height as Kitty. Then completely unexpectedly, Lola goes to kiss Kitty's forehead. The kiss lasted a long time. Kitty didn't resist.
Kitty: I'm fine. real.
Lola: I have no doubts.
Kitty: Anyway, I worry about Ray the most. It's harder for him to deal with this dilemma.
Laura: Forget about Ray for now. forget him.
Kitty rested her head on Lola's chest and seemed to go limp. Lola lifted Kitty's head, their lips pressed together. Both were well aware of what they were doing. They kissed, completely oblivious to the moment. Then Kitty stepped back.
Kitty: You are so kind.
A brief pause. Lola turned her head and met Richie who was sitting on the ground playing with toys. He saw everything. Kitty stood up.
Kitty: Do you know how to feed a dog? Half a can of dog food at night, check the water. Ray will feed it in the morning (ready to leave).
Lola: Kitty, do you mind?
Kitty: Mind? Mind what?
Lola (uneasily) Do you want me to drive you?
Kitty: I think I'd be better off driving myself.
Lola: Kitty, everything will be fine.
Kitty: Of course. goodbye.
Kitty leaves. Lola stood in the middle of the kitchen, looking at Richie, who was still watching her in silence.
Lola: What? what do you want?
The tone of her speech made Richie get up immediately and ran into his room. Lola looked at his back. Then go to the cupboard. Lola felt compelled to make a bold move, stepping on the trash can pedal and throwing the cake away.
Hogarth Manor, Printing Room, 1923
Ralph and Leonard silently read the proofs. Lottie appeared at the door.
Lottie: Mr. Wolfe, here comes Mrs Bell.
Leonard: Mrs Bell? (Looks a little annoyed, as if it's not the first time this has happened) It's not even 4 o'clock.
Lottie: What can I do? She has come.
Virginia's sister Vanessa Bell waits in the living room. At 44 years old, she was older than Virginia, but she looked younger, and she seemed more forthright and carefree. She had just sent her little daughter to play in the garden when Virginia entered the living room, accompanied by Lottie.
Vanessa: Virginia!
They hug and kiss.
Virginia (laughing secretly): Leonard thinks this is the end of civilization. Invited guests to come at 4 o'clock, and it turned out to be at 2:30...
Vanessa: Oh, my God.
Virginia: Savages.
Vanessa: We had an early lunch.
Virginia: I sent Nellie to London to buy ginger candy.
Vanessa (loud so Lottie can hear): Ah, Virginia, you're not afraid of servants!
Lottie laughed. The sisters went into the garden.
Virginia and Vanessa sat on the garden bench and watched the children play.
Virginia: How are you, sister?
Vanessa: Confused. London is ridiculous.
Virginia: Ridiculous?
Vanessa: Busy.
Virginia: What's the absurdity of being busy?
Vanessa: I was going to invite you to our party, but you're not going anyway.
Virginia: Why? (genuinely surprised) How do you know?
Vanessa: I thought you weren't going to town.
Virginia: Because you never invited me again.
Vanessa: Can you go into town? Will the doctor agree?
Virginia: Doctor!
Vanessa: Could it be that you didn't listen to their orders?
Virginia: They're a bunch of Victorian stilted old-timers.
Vanessa (squinting at Virginia, surprised by her frankness): So what do you mean? How are you? Did moving here make you healthier?
Virginia: Vanessa, I mean, even a lunatic needs his opinion.
Virginia stood up. Feeling a little embarrassed, Vanessa delayed for a while. Then they went to Vanessa's children. The kids found something interesting in the bushes. Julian Bell is 15 years old, strong and powerful. Quentin Bell is 12 years old, like a young soldier. Angelica Garnett is a very beautiful and lovely 5 year old girl.
Vanessa: Hey, researchers, what are you looking at? Did you find anything?
Julian: We found a little bird.
Vanessa: Really? Where?
Julian: It probably fell from a tree.
Quentin held a dying thrush in the palm of his hand—grey feathers curled up in a ball.
Vanessa: Oh my gosh, look at it.
Quentin: It's still alive. I think we might be able to revive it.
Vanessa: Rescue? (Frowning) Be careful, Quentin. The hour of death will come sooner or later. Perhaps, the bird's time of death has come.
Vanessa, worried that the conversation would offend Virginia, instinctively shook her hand.
Julian: Let's go pick some grass. Make a grave for the bird.
Vanessa tried to object, but Julian interrupted her.
Julian: What's weird: Just let it die in peace.
Quentin: Let's go, Nissa, let's make a grave.
Vanessa: Oh my God, okay okay. I go. Wait for me. (runs away with two kids)
Angelica made a cot out of branches. Everyone else went to cut grass. Virginia walked over to Angelica with a few yellow roses.
Virginia: Do you think he likes roses?
Angelica: Yes.
Virginia: Surround it with roses.
Virginia knelt down beside Angelica and helped her make the bed. The bird is lying beside it. In the distance came the children's cries: "Mama! We found a good place. Mama! Mama!"
Angelica: Is it female?
Virginia: Yes. The females are larger and less colorful.
Small twigs, grass, leaves form an uneven circle. Angelica carefully, as if protecting it, put the bird in, curling its claws. Angelica and Virginia decorate the tomb with roses.
Angelica: What happens when we die?
Virginia: How? We go back where we came from.
Angelica: I don't remember where I came from.
Virginia: Me too.
Angelica (frowning, trying to figure it out): It's so small.
Virginia: Yeah. We also look smaller when we die.
Angelica: But very peaceful.
Virginia smiled at Angelica. Vanessa suddenly appeared with the children, breaking the original tranquility.
Vanessa: Are you done? Bird's funeral is over? Buried?
Virginia: Alright.
Vanessa: Okay. Very good. Is it because we came so early that we didn't have tea?
Angelica ran away, happy that the funeral was over, but Virginia didn't move.
Virginia: No. of course not.
Vanessa: That's good. Let's go kids.
Vanessa walks away with Julian and Quentin, chatting as they go.
Julian: Where did Nellie go?
Vanessa: She went to London to buy ginger candy.
Julian: Is she mad about it?
Vanessa: Virginia said, very angry.
Quentin: I like to see Nellie angry. Ridiculous.
Then there was silence. Only Virginia was left alone. She remained motionless and continued to look at the bird's grave. Surrounded by petals, the bird leaves this world safely. Virginia closed her eyes slowly, her face a dead gray.
Brown House, Bedroom, 1951
Laura was lying on the bed as pale as Virginia. Then suddenly got up.
living room
Richie was playing on the rug. Lola came out of the bedroom. Richie sees everything in his eyes. She smiled at him absently, walked across the room, picked up the knitted handbag on the chair, and walked into the bathroom.
Lola opened the mirror door of the cabinet above the washbasin. There are several bottles of aspirin and the like in the cupboard. Lola took out a few bottles of sleeping pills, put them in her handbag, and walked out of the bathroom with her handbag.
Richie looked at her again. Lola went straight into the kitchen, put her handbag out of Richie's reach, and got out the flour and eggs again.
Lola: Hey baby, I have an idea. Let's make another cake. Better than the previous one.
Richie: What happened to the first one?
Lola (smiling at him as if nothing had happened): Then we're going out.
Clarissa's Apartment, 2001
A man is ringing the doorbell. This is Louie Waters—a dignified, gray-haired 50-year-old man dressed discreetly but with style. In his youth he was obviously a charming and romantic figure, and now he looks a little haggard. It was obvious that he mustered up the courage to ring the doorbell.
Clarissa's Voice: Who?
Louie: Clarissa, I'm Louie. Louis Waters.
Clarissa's Voice: Louie? Omg. You are early.
Louie: You don't mind, do you? Is there a problem?
Clarissa opened the corridor door, and Louis entered the front hall. When Louie walked to Clarissa's door, she opened the door to welcome him. She was wearing an apron and a pair of green rubber gloves. Messy hair - Louie shows up just in time for the climax of the prep work. The music was deafening.
Clarissa: Why would you mind? I am very happy.
Louie: That's fine.
They hug warmly. Suddenly, Clarissa found that Louie was almost in tears.
Louie: I thought I was bothering you.
Clarissa: No.
Louie: I know the ceremony doesn't start until 5 o'clock, but I flew in early this morning.
CLARISSA (shaking her head) Richard must be very happy. He will be happy to see you.
Louie: Do you think so?
Clarissa: Of course. of course. (there is an awkward moment) Why are we standing? Please come in.
Clarissa ushered Louis into the house and took off her apron. Louis couldn't understand why his presence made her so upset.
Louie: How are you?
Clarissa: Of course. All is well. Just this party...
Louie: Yeah.
Louis looked around the room. All furniture was moved to the walls. There were bunches of flowers everywhere, mostly yellow roses. Clarissa turned off the record player, which was playing a late Strauss opera by Jesse Norman.
Louie: I can't believe it. How beautiful. You are still with...
Clarissa: Yes, still with her. Yes. It's been ten years. too crazy.
Louie: Why crazy?
CLARISSA (shaking her head nervously): Nothing. what to drink?
Louie: Water.
Clarissa: Okay.
Clarissa went into the kitchen and lifted the lid of the large frying pan that was gurgling on the stove, which contained crabs. The ingredients for cooking are scattered throughout the kitchen. Clarissa looked around, took off her gloves, filled a glass with a block of ice, and poured soda. She looked out of the kitchen at Louis, who was still looking at the apartment in amazement.
Louie: Are you still editing?
Clarissa: Of course.
Louie: Still at that publishing house?
CLARISSA (nodding): How is San Francisco?
Louie: Oh, one of those cities that everyone talks about.
Seeing the picture of Richard when he was young in the frame, handsome and healthy, Louis stayed for a moment.
Clarissa: Richard said you were happy when you were together.
Louie: Not bad! Did the disease make him dizzy?
CLARISSA (hands him the cup): Louie, you should be prepared. He has changed a lot.
Louie took Richard's book from the shelf. Clarissa turned back to prepare the meal.
Louie: I read this book...
Clarissa: Oh my God!
Louie: Indeed. He just changed the name.
Clarissa: Um...
Louie: Isn't this a work of art? He even let you live on Tenth Street.
CLARISSA (frowning, dissatisfied with the turn of the conversation): That's not me.
Louie: No?
Clarissa: You know Richard. That's fantasy.
Louie: The whole chapter - "Is she going to buy nail polish?" Guess what happened? Fifty pages later she still hasn't bought it!
Clarissa smiled, but that didn't distract Louie.
Louie: It seems like the whole book is going to end like this. Nothing happened. Then all at once! She committed suicide for no reason.
Clarissa: Um...
Louis: It's like thunder in the clear sky.
Clarissa: Her mother committed suicide too.
Louie: Yes, of course. her mother. But that's not the reason.
Clarissa: Um...
Louie: Like thunder in a clear sky.
Louie looked excited, but Clarissa tried to convince him in a calm tone.
Clarissa: I know, this book feels heavy. But I like it. I know. There is only one thing that makes me sad.
Louie: Is it? What's up? What makes you sad? (looking at her cautiously, as if afraid of being fired back)
Clarissa: Well... it's just that the book talks too much about you. So kind.
Louie looked at the ceiling, caught off guard. Clarissa's words touched him, and he seemed to lose confidence.
Louie: I went to Wellfleet.
Clarissa: Really?
Louie: Went for a day. I didn't tell you.
Clarissa: But I didn't see you.
Louie: Remember that house? (meditation)
Clarissa: You are brave.
Louie: Brave? why?
Clarissa: Because you dared to go back.
Louis frowned.
Clarissa: What I'm trying to say is that you're not afraid to admit that we've lost the emotion of that time forever. (Tears fill his eyes, seemingly forgetting that Louie exists) Hell.
Louie: Clarissa...
Clarissa: I don't know what happened. forgive me. I have a strange feeling. Seems like he's been exposed...
Louie: Clarissa, I shouldn't have come.
CLARISSA (gestures that he doesn't have to console himself): No, it's not your fault. real. Rather... I have a bad feeling about it. Do you understand what I'm talking about? (wipes away tears) God, maybe, I'm just nervous about the party. Incompetent owner.
Suddenly, Clarissa slipped on the floor, unable to control her emotions anymore.
Louie: Clarissa, what happened?
Clarissa: God!
Louie: What's the matter?
Clarissa leaned against the wall, crying like a child, covering her face with her hands.
Clarissa: God!
Louie: Want me to go?
Clarissa tried in vain to keep her melancholy from turning into annoyance.
Clarissa: No, don't go. Explain to me! Why is this happening?
Louis approached her, trying to hold her hand.
Clarissa: No, don't touch me. Better not touch me.
Louis stood there helplessly. Clarissa looked at him tearfully.
Clarissa: This is so sudden! You flew in from San Francisco. Over the years, I have looked after Richard...
Louie: I know.
Clarissa: I've been perse
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