Well done. WoK is my favorite Trek movie. I remember watching this scene, when Spock was listening with what looked like disinterest, knowing that as soon as he turned his head, he was going to do something. No questions asked, no words spoken, no reservations about what needed to be done. He just slipped out like an Irish goodbye, and took action. And after the dust settled, his only concern was that of the many.
Of course, the funeral scene was epic as well. Oh, the pipes are playing...
The first version of this essay was very, very different. In fact, it was more like a book report or movie review. I spent way too much time explaining things.
Being only halfway through watching the film anew, I figured I should probably finish it. The scene where Kirk and David reconcile resonated with me, and I realized the problem was I was too focused on the minute details (like the aforementioned fucking nerd that I am) and missed the timeless universals.
It’s ok, he comes back in the next movie. So why am I crying?
Haven’t rewatched that movie since I saw it in the theater, but the two lines I remember are the one about two-dimensional thinking and the one about the needs of the many.
Yes, of course Spock chose the course of self sacrifice, and it would have to be Spock. He realizes the dilemma, ponders it for a few seconds, reaches the only logical conclusion, and quickly gets to work implementing his solution. No time for emotion or goodbye. Or asking for permission.
"He did not feel this sacrifice a vain or empty one, and we will not debate his profound wisdom at these proceedings. Of my friend, I can only say this: of all the souls I have encountered in my travels, his was the most... human."
The “remember” bit was a giveaway though, and everyone who saw it guessed that we had not seen the last of his character, long before we learned what the title of Star Trek III was going to be…
Any list of essential Star Trek characters that does not begin with Spock is a list created by a madman whose mother … is probably a very nice person, regardless. No need to bring her into this.
Remarkable write up! In that moment spock resolved himself to what needed done, knowing the cost was death. How you used that to present the importance of individual choice was brilliant. Some things have to be chosen, bravery, courage, faith. Without choice these words have no form, nor their second order effects.
I really enjoyed this essay brother! I’ve never watched the show, but my partner in crime has. I’m sure he’ll appreciate this even more when he reads it.
Phisto, well done. A very timely message, and excellent work honing in on choice - as an exercise in personal autonomy - as the key component of sacrifice for "the greater good." Plus, you tied in the Bonhoeffer. I was not disappointed.
Love this rendition of Amazing Grace. I wasn’t born in the 60s, but watched Star Trek with two of my brothers (several older) from a very young age. Spock was ALWAYS my favorite.
I love that moment where he takes in the import of what's happening, takes a split second to decide, stands up and moves. That's the crux, and what absolute sovereignty and freedom to choose looks like. Nothing can shake the certainty in that right decision. Wrecks me every time, in a good way.
Thank you, Phisto, for this remarkable piece! True from start to finish and Spock was always my hero in Star Trek, all the way through, in his quiet dignity and formality . This is what Christ did as well, as our Substitute on that terrible tree of Calvary. We never forget His gift to all who will accecpt it. Blessings overflowing to you, Phisto. You are inspiring.
Well done. WoK is my favorite Trek movie. I remember watching this scene, when Spock was listening with what looked like disinterest, knowing that as soon as he turned his head, he was going to do something. No questions asked, no words spoken, no reservations about what needed to be done. He just slipped out like an Irish goodbye, and took action. And after the dust settled, his only concern was that of the many.
Of course, the funeral scene was epic as well. Oh, the pipes are playing...
It still wrecks me
Would you boys care for some Bonus Content?
The first version of this essay was very, very different. In fact, it was more like a book report or movie review. I spent way too much time explaining things.
Being only halfway through watching the film anew, I figured I should probably finish it. The scene where Kirk and David reconcile resonated with me, and I realized the problem was I was too focused on the minute details (like the aforementioned fucking nerd that I am) and missed the timeless universals.
So I nuked the whole thing and started over.
Old softie
The scene with David was indeed powerful. While I am sure that would have been a good essay to read, your final product here was outstanding.
It’s ok, he comes back in the next movie. So why am I crying?
Haven’t rewatched that movie since I saw it in the theater, but the two lines I remember are the one about two-dimensional thinking and the one about the needs of the many.
Yes, of course Spock chose the course of self sacrifice, and it would have to be Spock. He realizes the dilemma, ponders it for a few seconds, reaches the only logical conclusion, and quickly gets to work implementing his solution. No time for emotion or goodbye. Or asking for permission.
"He did not feel this sacrifice a vain or empty one, and we will not debate his profound wisdom at these proceedings. Of my friend, I can only say this: of all the souls I have encountered in my travels, his was the most... human."
The “remember” bit was a giveaway though, and everyone who saw it guessed that we had not seen the last of his character, long before we learned what the title of Star Trek III was going to be…
I've always wondered what would've happened had Nimoy not continued.
I suspect the "remember" would've been played off as Spock consoling McCoy, who would've blamed himself very badly.
It would have diminished the fan base. Might have been the end of the original cast movies -unless they did one featuring McKoy.
I agree. Looking back, it's wild to imagine Star Trek without Spock.
Heck, have you heard the story of how Abram's got him involved for the reboot? Literally wrote with Nimoy at that center.
Any list of essential Star Trek characters that does not begin with Spock is a list created by a madman whose mother … is probably a very nice person, regardless. No need to bring her into this.
I held out till now but now I'm choking up, dang it.
Eric Metaxas’ book on Bonhoeffer is absolutely fantastic from beginning to end.
Brother man! Best Sunday sermon ever! Totally understand “the one” now. Brilliant analysis.
Glad you liked it!
You're also the first to comment on the logic behind my posting schedule. ;)
Death, is lighter than a feather, Duty, is heavier than a mountain. My Soul, Unto the mountain.
Brought a tear to my eye, Nimoy was always the standout class act in that iconic series.
Remarkable write up! In that moment spock resolved himself to what needed done, knowing the cost was death. How you used that to present the importance of individual choice was brilliant. Some things have to be chosen, bravery, courage, faith. Without choice these words have no form, nor their second order effects.
Thanks! I'm glad it's resonated so very much with folks.
Fascinating...
Agreed. True love is only proven by sacrifice. Ironic given that it's the character that's supposed to have no emotion, yet has the greatest Love.
Wow. Yes! The one must choose! The difference between hero and mob.
I really enjoyed this essay brother! I’ve never watched the show, but my partner in crime has. I’m sure he’ll appreciate this even more when he reads it.
I'd love to know his thoughts. This movie stands on its own, so jump right in.
Phisto, well done. A very timely message, and excellent work honing in on choice - as an exercise in personal autonomy - as the key component of sacrifice for "the greater good." Plus, you tied in the Bonhoeffer. I was not disappointed.
Did you catch the "Death of Stalin" reference?
"She fucked the Imperial Japanese Navy..."
Lol, nice touch.
Well said. Great post. Sacrifice is a lost virtue.
Love this rendition of Amazing Grace. I wasn’t born in the 60s, but watched Star Trek with two of my brothers (several older) from a very young age. Spock was ALWAYS my favorite.
I love that moment where he takes in the import of what's happening, takes a split second to decide, stands up and moves. That's the crux, and what absolute sovereignty and freedom to choose looks like. Nothing can shake the certainty in that right decision. Wrecks me every time, in a good way.
Thank you, Phisto, for this remarkable piece! True from start to finish and Spock was always my hero in Star Trek, all the way through, in his quiet dignity and formality . This is what Christ did as well, as our Substitute on that terrible tree of Calvary. We never forget His gift to all who will accecpt it. Blessings overflowing to you, Phisto. You are inspiring.