Literature | MusicalTheatreResourceCenter

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GIL. What were we talking about just now? CLEM. Perhaps I can assist your memory. In Munich, if I recall correctly, you always talked about your books. GIL. Quite so. As a matter of fact, I was speaking about my new novel. CLEM. Pray, continue. Nowadays, I find that I, too, can talk literature. Eh, Margaret? Is it naturalistic? Symbolic? Autobiographical? Or--let me see--is it distilled? GIL. Oh, in a certain sense we all write about our life-experiences. CLEM. H'm. That's good to know. GIL. Yes, if you're painting the character of Nero, in my opinion it's absolutely necessary that you should have set fire to Rome-- CLEM. Naturally. GIL. From what source should a writer derive his inspiration if not from himself? Where should he go for his models if not to the life which is nearest to him? [Margaret becomes more and more uneasy.] CLEM. Isn't it a pity, though, that the models are so rarely consulted? But I must say, if I were a woman, I'd think twice before I'd let such people know anything--[Sharply.] In decent society, sir, that's the same as compromising a woman! GIL. I don't know whether I belong to decent society or not, but, in my humble opinion, it's the same as ennobling a woman. CLEM. Indeed. GIL. The essential thing is, does it really hit the mark! In a higher sense, what does it matter if the public does know that a woman was happy in this bed or that? CLEM. Mr. Gilbert, allow me to remind you that you are speaking in the presence of a lady. GIL. I'm speaking in the presence of a comrade, Baron, who, perhaps, shares my views in these matters. CLEM. Oh! MARG. Clement! [Throws herself at his feet.] Clement. CLEM. [staggered]. But--Margaret. MARG. Your forgiveness, Clement! CLEM. But, Margaret. [To Gilbert.] It's very painful to me, Mr. Gilbert. Now, get up, Margaret.

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