Star Trek The Next Generation
S1E13
· The Big Goodbye

Picard Preserves Holodeck State and Exits to Reality

Captain Picard decisively saves the current state of the Holodeck simulation before shutting it down, marking a crucial emotional and narrative transition from immersive fantasy back to the pressing realities outside. This deliberate act preserves the fragile continuity of the detective scenario, symbolizing Picard’s attempt to hold on to control amidst chaos. It signals a turning point where the crew must leave behind the comforting illusion to confront the escalating external crises and the deadly consequences of the malfunctioning simulation.

Plot Beats

The narrative micro-steps within this event

1

Picard decisively saves the current Holodeck setting before shutting down the simulation, marking a clear transition from immersion to reality.

engagement to closure ['Holodeck corridor near the side exit']

Who Was There

Characters present in this moment

2
Jean-Luc Picard
Captain
 primary

Resolute and focused, masking the weight of the simulation’s dangers with measured calm and determination.

Captain Picard physically moves through the Holodeck corridor with purpose, verbally commands the Enterprise computer to save the current Holodeck setting, and decisively orders the Holodeck to power down, embodying control and resolve.

Goals in this moment
  • • Preserve the current state of the Holodeck simulation to maintain continuity for possible future use.
  • • Terminate the simulation safely to prevent further harm or malfunction.
  • • Reassert control over a chaotic, malfunctioning environment.
  • • Transition the crew away from illusion toward confronting real threats.
Active beliefs
  • • Maintaining a saved memory of the simulation is vital for understanding and resolving the malfunction.
  • • Holodeck illusions, while immersive, must be relinquished to face imminent real-world crises.
  • • His leadership requires decisive action to protect crew and mission integrity.
  • • Technology is a tool to be commanded, not feared.
Character traits
decisive authoritative controlled strategic
Follow Jean-Luc Picard's journey
Custodian Voice
primary

Neutral and detached, functioning solely as the ship’s operational interface.

The Enterprise Computer Voice responds to Picard's verbal commands with precise efficiency, confirming the memory save after a brief pause, facilitating the transition from simulation to reality with calm professionalism.

Goals in this moment
  • • Accurately execute Captain Picard’s commands without error.
  • • Ensure the integrity of the saved Holodeck memory data.
  • • Provide clear and timely feedback to the commanding officer.
Active beliefs
  • • Following protocol precisely ensures ship operations run smoothly.
  • • Clear communication is essential to support crew decision-making.
  • • The Holodeck system’s state must be managed carefully to avoid hazards.
Character traits
efficient calm responsive precise
Follow Custodian Voice's journey

Location Details

Places and their significance in this event

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Holodeck Corridor Outside Entrance

The Holodeck Corridor by Side Exit serves as the transitional threshold where Picard physically and symbolically moves from the immersive Holodeck simulation to the stark reality of the Enterprise. Its technology-saturated environment frames this pivotal moment of control and transition, reinforcing the emotional weight of leaving behind illusion.

Atmosphere Quiet, tense, and expectant, with a subtle undercurrent of controlled urgency.
Function A liminal space marking the boundary between fantasy (Holodeck) and reality (ship operations).
Symbolism Represents the fragile boundary between escapism and responsibility, illusion and duty.
Access Restricted to authorized personnel like senior officers; not open to casual use during critical moments.
Sterile lighting reflecting off sleek corridor surfaces. Ambient hum of ship systems blending with distant Holodeck machinery sounds.

Narrative Connections

How this event relates to others in the story

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Key Dialogue

"PICARD: Memory: save current setting."
"COMPUTER VOICE: Current setting saved."
"PICARD: Holodeck OFF."