Narrative Web
S2E5
· Star Trek: The Next Generation - The Schizoid Man

A Moment of Mourning in Motion

In the bustle of Enterprise corridors thick with tension, Wesley's hesitance as he intercepts Picard speaks volumes—here the young officer seeks not just permission to attend Graves' ceremony, but a way to process both admiration and loss. His unfinished sentence ('Since I never got to meet him...') hangs with the weight of missed opportunities and unspoken grief. Picard's immediate approval dissolves hierarchical barriers, his paternal 'Come along, Wes' transforming a perfunctory request into a shared ritual of remembrance. This quiet interlude between Data's escalating instability (showcased in prior scenes) and the coming confrontation serves as vital emotional calibration—affirming humanity's need for closure even amidst crisis.

Plot Beats

The narrative micro-steps within this event

3

Picard strides briskly through the corridor while Wesley rushes up and calls, 'Captain Picard.' Picard stops and waits for Wesley, converting the hurry into a focused exchange.

urgent to receptive

Picard asks, 'What is it?' and Wesley, hesitant, requests permission to attend Dr. Graves's ceremony, explaining he never had a chance to meet him.

tentative to expectant

Picard paraphrases Wesley's wish and warmly approves—'I think it's a fine idea. Come along, Wes.' Wesley nods, securing his inclusion in the ceremony.

hesitant to reassured

Who Was There

Characters present in this moment

2
Wesley Crusher
Acting Ensign
 primary

Hesitant hopefulness mixed with regret

Physically hurrying to catch Picard, then hesitating mid-request. His aborted sentence and nodding response reveal youthful earnestness tempered by unprocessed grief over never meeting his scientific idol.

Goals in this moment
  • • Secure permission to attend Graves' ceremony
  • • Acknowledge personal connection to Graves' work
Active beliefs
  • • Formal participation will provide closure
  • • Picard recognizes the value of mentorship beyond protocol
Character traits
Eager Introspective
Follow Wesley Crusher's journey
Jean-Luc Picard
Captain
 primary

Professionally composed with underlying compassion

Initially brisk but pauses attentively when Wesley approaches. Shifts from command stance ('What is it?') to paternal warmth ('Come along, Wes'), lowering hierarchical barriers through body language and tone.

Goals in this moment
  • • Honor Graves' legacy through structured ceremony
  • • Provide Wesley with guidance during emotional moment
Active beliefs
  • • Rituals of remembrance strengthen crew cohesion
  • • Junior officers learn through participation in significant events
Character traits
Decisive Mentoring
Follow Jean-Luc Picard's journey

Narrative Connections

How this event relates to others in the story

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Key Dialogue

"WESLEY: I heard about the ceremony you're having for Doctor Graves, and... well sir --"
"PICARD: You wish to attend."
"PICARD: I think it's a fine idea. Come along, Wes."