QUARTET (A Model of Decorum and Tranquility)


MOLOKOV
We wish, no must, make our disgust
For this abuse perfectly clear
We're here for chess - Are the US?
If so why foul the atmosphere!

FLORENCE
I must protest - our delegation
Has a host of valid points to raise

ARBITER
It's not just black and white
If I may coin a phrase
As any neutral would attest.

FLORENCE
Though we concede
The fact his masters bend the rules is maybe not your fault
If they withdraw their psychological assault
Then under protest will proceed

MOLOKOV
If your man's so sweet
Then why his fighting talk?
If he says we cheat
Then why on earth did he go take a walk?

FLORENCE
I am not surprised
He wanted fresher air
Once he realized
There was no hope
Of your guys playing fair

FLORENCE & ANATOLYMOLOKOV & ARBITER
How sadIt's very sad to see
to seeThe ancient and distinguished game that used to be

ALL
A model of decorum and tranquility
Become like any other sport
A battleground for rival ideologies
To slug it out with glee

ANATOLY
I would say with regard to
Him it is hard to
Rebut
Ever-growing suspicions
My oposition's
A nut

FLORENCE
I would have said
You'd understand the strain and pressure getting where he's got
Or that you'd simply call him highly-strung and not
Imply that he was off his head

ANATOLY
But how on earth can someone even
Half as civilized as nice as you
Be part of such a self destructive
Point of view?
I hope he pays you
What you're worth
ARBITER
I call this tune No one's immune to my power
Once in this hall

MOLOKOV
In that case
I must ask you
Why you now
Preside over a brawl
FLORENCE
I'm not getting rich
My only interest
Is in something which
Gives me the chance
Of working with the best

ANATOLY
I can only say
I hope your dream comes true
Till that far-off day
I hope you cope
With helping number two

FLORENCE & ANATOLYMOLOKOV & ARBITER
How sadIt's very sad to see
to seeThe ancient and distinguished game that used to be

ALL
A model of decorum and tranquility
Become like any other sport
A battleground for rival ideologies
To slug it out with glee