Page 73 - Big Idea

The Big Idea – Act 3

But I must tell you—just for your own sake:
Remaining here would be a big mistake.

WOMAN 1: You’re not making sense. Why shouldn’t we leave all
our misery and trouble behind and build ourselves a new life?

RIVAL 1:
After granting that all of your complaints
Are quite reasonable and based on fact,
I must also say that you are not saints—
Now please don’t suppose I’m lacking in tact,

But women have managed to find a way
To gain control over quite a few things
In their lives while appearing to obey
Their men as if they were absolute kings;

And that exercise of power proceeds
Behind the scenes without public accord;
Each one striving to satisfy her needs,
The general good completely ignored.

You may agree with me but not out loud:
I know it’s a secret of which you’re proud.

WOMAN 2: You are obsessed with power, so you think everyone
else is, too! We women merely seek to survive within the limitations
placed upon us by you men, the rulers.

RIVAL 1:
Attacking me doesn’t alter the truth
(To which you’ve raised no valid objection);
I say you’ll lose your power and your youth,
If you take part in this insurrection.

Did you think you could gain without losing?
No matter what you think your role will be,
It certainly won’t be of your choosing;
Your skills will be of no avail—you’ll see!

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