(University classroom. The professor is struggling with a slide projector)

BUFFY: Professor Lillian?

PROFESSOR: Buffy.

BUFFY: I'm sorry that I missed the lecture today. Was it good?

(He gives her a look.)

BUFFY: Um, of course it was.

(He returns to fiddling)

BUFFY: D-do you want me to try?

PROFESSOR: Yes, thanks, the ... slide is stuck in the ... thing.

BUFFY: Okay. (begins pulling at the slide) Um, I just ... came by to tell you that ... I have to drop this class. Um, all my classes actually. I'm not finishing the semester. I wish it ...um. I just, I can't be in school right now. I have to take care of my sister.

Prof Lillian: Yes, I thought you might. I was very sorry to hear about your loss.

BUFFY: I have these forms from the registrar's office that I need you to sign.

Prof Lillian: Oh, yes.

BUFFY: Thanks.

Prof Lillian: Is there something else?

BUFFY: No. Yes. Yeah. Um. I wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed this class. I mean I know that I wasn't the best student, but I really learned a lot. And I really like poetry. I *really* do.

(The stuck slide pops out and goes flying across the room. )

BUFFY: Oh, sorry.

Prof Lillian: (smiles) I'm glad you like poetry, Buffy.

BUFFY: I wish I had time for it. But, I, just don't right now...

Prof Lillian: Well, maybe short poems.

BUFFY: Yeah! Like those Japanese ones that um sound like a sneeze.

Prof Lillian: Haiku?

BUFFY: Right. Maybe those. And, hopefully, I'll be back next semester. When I'm more myself again.

• Academics

written by: Rebecca Kirshner; Once again, I'm typing these up myself as transcripts are scarce.... Full transcript at:
http://www.studiesinwords.de/97toughlove.html