Play
Jackson Pollock: Started his career as a Famous Abstract Artist in New York City.
Lee Krasner: The wife of Jackson Pollock
Ruth Kligman: The lover of Jackson Pollock
Charles Pollock: The older brother of Jackson Pollock
Scene one:
[Jackson Pollock is sitting in the couch watching television, until his older brother, Charles, approaches him]
[Charles enter the stage very frustrated]
Jackson: What is going on is something bothering you Charles?
Charles: And you still ask if something is bothering me when you are always laying down in a mess without being able to clean up after yourself or do something productive with your life! What is wrong with you?!?
[A minute of silence]
Jackson: I already graduated high school what else do you expect me to do?
Charles: It’s obvious that you haven’t taken the time to think about your future. Tell me what are you going to do when you have no one to depend on? What type of life are you going to have?
Jackson: I am still young, I have plenty of time ahead of me, why the hurry?
[Charles stares at Jackson in despair]
Charles: I didn't tell you this before, but I got accepted in the Art Student league in New York and I’ve been thinking about for a while now and I decided to attend and that will be my final decision.
Jackson: [uncomfortably intense]What does that have to do with me?
Charles: Don’t be foolish Jackson; this decision involves you as well. For I am your older brother and I have to look after you because you still don't know how to manage yourself, therefore, I would like for you to come with me.
Jackson: Why do you want me to go with you? I'm fine just the way I am, besides why would I want to move if we don’t have to pay rent where we live now.
Charles: Okay it’s your decision I’m leaving it up to you now, you are old enough and I'm tired of being behind your back the whole time so for now on you are responsible for your own actions. But later on I don’t want you to come up to me when you are in trouble.
[Jackson is distracted by the television.]
Charles: Jackson, are you listening to me [Jackson looks at Charles in a confused way] you know what, forget what I just said, I had it with you I'm packing my stuff and leaving in any time. I’ll call you when I arrive to New York. Take care for now and don’t get into trouble.
[Charles exits the stage with fury]
[Three weeks later the phone rings and Jackson pick it up]
Jackson: Hello, who is this? Oh hey Charles it’s been a long time since I have heard from you. How are you? Is everything alright?
Charles: [Background voice]Yeah everything is okay I’ve just been really busy, don’t worry.
Jackson: Okay.
[A deep silence arose between them]
Charles: [Charles tries to bring up the conversation] Soooo about that one day we had the discussion, look, I just want to apologize for “over reacting” [Jackson interrupts].
Jackson: Actually, I have been thinking about what we talked about and I feel that I should be preparing myself for the future and decided to go to New York to study at the art school.
Charles: Sounds perfect, all along I knew that you would make the right choice, besides I have seen your art work and I believe that you have a great potential and should take advantage of your art skills.
Jackson: Okay brother, thank you for the advice, take care and hope to be with you soon.
[Jackson begins packing his belongings with great enthusiasm and exits the stage and the lights go out]
End of scene One
Scene two:
[The lights will go on and Charles will be sitting on a chair painting on a canvas on his desk . Jackson enters the stage with a suitcase in his hand and a great excitement to see his brother]
Jackson: Hey I'm here, it’s really nice to see you again
Charles: Nice to see you too, tell me how was your flight?
Jackson: It was very pleasant; the service was very friendly, and caring. Very different then what I expected it to be like. [Jackson walks toward his brother’s painting]. But tell me what is that you are working on?
Charles: Oh this, [Points towards the painting] it’s the painting that I started working on ever since I came to New York. I hope it gets exhibited in an art museum.
Jackson: Its looking good so far, wish you the best of luck, well if there isn't anything to do inside I might as well go and take a tour around the city may be even go and visit an art museum, Ill be back before midnight to unpack my suitcase.
Charles: Take care and stay out of trouble. [He turns at Jackson with a big smile]
Jackson: There is nothing to worry about; I am not the same indiscipline boy that I was before. Instead of worrying about me so much you should go out and have some fun. Or if you want you can show me around?
[Charles looks at Jackson with a big smile and turns at his art work]
Charles: I would love that, [He stares at Jackson in great disappointment], but I am so busy right now, sorry maybe next time we will go out together.
Jackson: Ohh okay, just let me know when you will be available to spend some time together.
[Jackson leaves the stage]
- Jackson wasn’t back when Charles finishes his painting and realizes that it was past midnight and he starts to worry.]
Charles: I wonder where Jackson could be this late at night. What if something bad happened to him? [lights go out for a second or two]
[An hour later the door of Charles's study slams shut and Jackson comes inside drunk tripping over the furniture.]
Charles: [starts yelling at Jackson with anger] Where were you Jackson? Why are you here past midnight? I thought you changed Pollock, Why did you fill me up with all the crap about you being more responsible, mature. What happened to you? [Slaps Jackson in the face]
Jackson: [Acting dunk] what was that for?
Charles: [Charles is getting out of control] How dare you ask me that idiotic question! You know exactly why I slap you for. [Breathing hard] Oh my gosh I feel so stupid for believing that you have changed and became a responsible person. I would rather have you stayed in Arizona instead of coming here and stressing me out.
[Jackson is to drunk to pay attention to his brother so he falls asleep, Charles tries waking him up with his screaming but doesn't succeed]
Charles: Jackson how dare you!! You are getting out of the house early morning, so if I were you I would wake up and start looking for a place were to spend your days in New York. Are you listening to me?[Charles stops talking for a second and looks at Jackson who is sleeping in disbelief] You know what? You and I are going to have a serious talk tomorrow morning because later on I don’t want to be taking care of an alcoholic. Ughhh you are to drunk to listen.
[Charles starts walking away from the sleeping body]
Charles: [Starts muttering to himself] what an indiscipline boy, I should do something to help him before it is too late. But first I have to sleep; it’s been a long day for me.
[The lights dim out and Charles exit the stage while Jackson is still sleeping]
End of Scene Two
Scene Three:
[Its morning and Jackson wakes up with a head ache, he starts looking around the room with confusion as trying to figure out what has happened]
Jackson: What happened last night? Why am I in the studio?
[He tries to stand up but he is to dizzy to walk and he decided not to move where he was at and continues winning about the head ache]
Jackson: Aw-www my head, it feels like it is going to explode, I promise I will try not to drink again but let the pain release itself awwwww. I should go and make myself some black coffee to feel better.
[Charles enter the stage calmly]
Charles: [he speaks with a big sarcasm] How does it feel to wake up with a head ache? good doesn’t it? Well then I have to have a serious talk with you!
Jackson: Ughhh I am really sorry and I promise that this will never happen again, please give me another chance to show my repentance of everything bad I have done.
Charles: I do not know if I can believe in you again? Maybe this repentance is honest but I am so confused right now. Jackson I really care about you and want the best for you too. But I cant do this without your help. Please help me Jackson! I am not that young to be behind your back and look after you the whole time so put some effort in changing your behavior. For now I would like you to grab your belongings and walk out that door. When you feel that you have changed you are more than welcome to come back. Now please go.
[Jackson starts sobbing and pleads Charles for his forgiveness]
Jackson: [sobs] Charles please don't do this to me right now. I need you and you know that.
Charles: I am concern of that and that is why I want you to start becoming independent. This is for your own good as well.
Jackson: Please Charles, I have changed trust me, besides this was the first and last time I will come home drunk. Just give me another chance to prove myself right.
Charles: [Starting to feel sorry for Jackson] Please Jackson don’t make things more complicated than they are right now. Trust me it hurts me too when I see you suffering.
Jackson: Then why don’t you let me stay with you?
Charles: Because you have to start becoming independent, I thought I told you this before. My decision is already made and I want you to learn from this mistake so please grab your belongings and take them with you.
[Charles walks towards the door]
Charles: One more thing.
Jackson: Yes?
Charles: I want you out of the house before I come back from the grocery store.
[Charles Exit the stage and Jackson cries even harder, he begins to grab his belongings and exits the stage]
Charles: [angry] [rushes in with the groceries and slams the door, noticing that Jackson listened and left] did I do the right thing to Jackson?
[Thinks in deep silence, then sits down in the couch. The light go out]
End of Scene Three
Charles: Scene Four:
[five years later passed and Jackson came back in an evening to live with Charles in long island New York accompanied by Lee Krasner]
Jackson: Charles its been about five years that we haven't talk or seen each other so I decided to come and visit you, how was everything without me?[small chuckle]
[Charles stands up from his chair and walks towards Jackson to hug him]
Charles: Ohh Jackson I'm glad to see that you haven’t lost your sense of humor [laughs]. Everything has been alright, but I can’t say that I have been better without you. Hey, Looks like you have someone with you? [Looks towards Lee Krasner standing next to Jackson and greets her] Its nice meeting you Mrs.?
Lee: Lee Krasner, you can call me Lee, nice meeting you Charles [Shakes hands with Charles]
Jackson: [ashamed] Oh my pardon! Lee this is my older brother Charles and Charles this is my wife. [He looks at them both with a smile and puts his arm around Lee]
Charles: What a surprise, congratulations, come inside don’t stand there [They walked towards the couch and sat down when Charles was reaching for his wheelchair and sat in front of them]so for how long have you guys been married?
Lee: Not so long ago, we decided to take some time together to see if it would work out for both of us.
Charles: So Lee tell me something about you, where are you from, what is your profession? - Anything. I just want to get to know my sister in law a little better.
Lee: [Blushing] I was born in Brooklyn, New York, and surprisingly I became an Abstract Artist just like this charming guy [stares at Jackson and gives him a kiss on the cheek]
Charles: [Enthusiasm] Really? I knew everything will turn out good for you! You couldn’t have gotten someone better than Lee..Huh Jackson [pats Jackson's leg]. Look at her [Points at Lee] she is beautiful, nice, and talented, you’ve got it so easy so you better not disrespect this young lady as for she is your only wife.
Jackson: [sentimental tone] Why would I harm someone that I love.
Lee: Honey I have to use the restroom, can I be excused?
Jackson: Of course, the bathroom is the last door of the hall. Want me to show you where?
Lee: No its okay, I can handle it [stands up the couch and walks towards the door] excuse me Charles.
Charles: Go ahead, make yourself at home [Lee exist the stage] Now tell me Jackson how did you meet this girl?
Jackson: We met at an art exhibition here in New York. We were both presenting our art pieces when she came up to me and told me how my art was very influential, that’s how we met and later on I decided to take her out to eat to talk about art and we became close friends. Years have passed when I decided to declare myself. We got married in 1945 about five years ago. I’m sorry you couldn’t attend but I brought you some of our wedding pictures [Takes out the pictures from his back pocket and hands them to Charles]
Charles: [Charles grabs the pictures and starts to look them over] the pictures are so pretty [points at an individual picture] but I like this picture more because you both look in love [Passes the picture to Jackson]
Jackson: [grabs the picture and stares at it for a while] This picture is one of my favorites as well. [His voice starts to break as if he wanted to cry of happiness]You do not know how much she means to me, I do not know what would I do without her, she is the only person that can give me strength, hope, and courage to stay away from the bad habits I used to have. [Charles stares at Jackson in the eye] I can not even describe how much I love her.
Charles: It’s nice to hear that your love for Lee is honest.
Jackson: Trust me you have no idea. Okay changing of conversation, uuumm is it possible for me and Lee to move in and live with you. I know it has been so long that we haven’t seen each other and I thought I would surprise you. So what do you say?
Charles: Of course, after all those years of being alone I would love to have some company. You are more than welcome to move and bring your belongings any time you wish.
[The lights go off and the stage will be dark Jackson exit the stage]
End of Scene four:
Scene five:
[In one early morning Lee Krasner is in the studio sitting in the desk reading a magazine when Charles goes out to a friend’s house and exits the stage]
Charles: Good morning Lee [Lee:] Good morning Charles; I am going out to a friends house and might go buy some groceries, ill be back no time soon so do not wait for me. If Jackson asks for me just tell him where I went, By the way where is he?
Lee: He is at the bathroom but he’ll be here any minute.
Charles: Okay ill be back
[Charles exits the stage and Lee continues reading the magazine at the desk, while Jackson enters the stage and prepares himself to start painting]
Jackson: Good morning babe[ he kisses her cheek and then begins to set up the canvas] What are you reading?
Lee: Oh nothing important [She places the magazine on the table and clears her throat and stands up] Jackson there is something that I have to tell you.
Jackson: [Begins painting calmly] what is it honey? Is something bothering you?
Lee: well actually I’ve been thinking about how to say this in the right way [Pauses]
Jackson: [confused] what are you trying to say to me? [he looks up at Lee] is everything okay?
Lee: Ohh do not worry everything is fine, its just that we have been living with your brother for about two years already and you know that we have created a lot of art work together here in this farm and I will never forget that-.
Jackson: [inpatient] Please just get to the point. What are you trying to tell me, you are worrying me?
Lee: Okay then, I accepted an offer and that means that I have to travel all the way to Paris and work there. [Jackson stops painting and stays mute while looking at her] Jackson say something.
Jackson: What do expect me to tell you? It seems to me that you have already made a decision without consulting me.[ Starts painting more aggressively]
Lee: Jackson do not take it that way, trust me I was going to tell you earlier, but I was afraid you would of reacted this way. You have to understand that I have to get out of this barn to experience new things on my own [Throws her arms freely], I just can’t have you making my decisions I do not want to stay here the whole time any longer.[a moment of silence] I knew it wasn't a good idea to tell you.
Jackson: [Furiously painting avoiding eye contact with Lee] [sarcasm] If you weren’t planning to tell me anything or leave me without saying anything. You were just going to write a note.[stops painting and looks directly at Lee but she avoids his eye contact by looking at his art work]
Lee: [sad] Jackson don’t act like that it’s not as bad as it sounds, [looks up at him] everything is going to be fine between us if that is what you want.
Jackson: Lee how can you say [shouting] “if I want to”...... you know perfectly how much I love you, I tell you mostly all the time and you still tell me “If I WANT TO”
[Lee Krasner begins to scream too]
Lee: Calm down Pollock I knew you were going to take it in a bad way but I never expected you would take it this far. you did not even let me finish telling you how long-
Jackson: I do not want to know how long you were planning to leave but if you decided to go I will suggest you to pack now and leave fort the better.
Lee: Jackson stop overreacting, this is nothing to get mad at, why are you acting this way, [Jackson tries to ignore her and keeps painting] if this is the way you are going to act every time I travel I prefer to leave now and never come back, if that is what you want.
[Jackson starting to be inpatient and he stars painting faster]
Jackson: [shouting] Do whatever you please; I now understand that my opinion is not necessary.
Lee: Fine. it is obvious that I can’t live with you acting this way every time I have to travel, so I made my mind up and I am leaving [passes by Jackson and walks toward the exit of the stage in fury]
Jackson: [turns shouting] Lee! [Tries grabbing her by the arm but she passes to fast that Jackson’s hand slips her arm]
[Lee slams the door and exists the stage while Jackson stares at the door shut [sadly] then looks at the painting and slowly drips more paint on the canvas and sobs silently. The lights go off and the stage goes dark]
End of scene 5
Scene six:
[The stage is dark and you will hear Jackson drinking; when Charles enters the stage from the door the lights will be shining down at him]
Charles: [confused] What in the world is going on [looking around the room he turns on the light and sees Jackson sitting on the floor, covering his head with both of his hands and knees, next to the desk. When Charles first sees his brother on the floor he immediately thinks he is unconscious and walks rapidly toward him for help]
Charles:[slaps Jackson in the face] Jackson [shouting] Jackson! [Stares deeply at him] Jackson [panicky moves him from the shoulders] wake up, wake up.
[Jackson: opens his eyes]
Charles: Thank god you are okay, [hugs him] for a second I thought you were [pauses] never mind as long as you are fine now what is all the matter. Tell me why all of a sudden you began drinking, I thought you left it a long time ago, now look at you [points at his face] you look like a total disaster, why the change huh? Is it because of Lee?
Jackson: [drunk and screams angrily]Shut up, don’t ever dare to mention her name in this house again you understand?
Charles: [Stares at Jackson in despair] Okay I understand
Jackson: [drunk] She left [sobs] how can she leave me after all what we have been through, I thought she cared for me, but I guess work was more important than me [gulps on his beer]
[Charles snatches away the beer of Jackson’s mouth]
Charles: This is not going to help [throws the bottle to the floor; it breaks]
Jackson: [ stands up and shouts angry] Why did you do that for?
Charles: [looking up at Jackson and shouts] I am just trying to help you; alcohol is not the easy way out to your problems, can’t you understand that!
Jackson: You do not have to worry about me, I am going to be alright, [walking back and forth] leave me alone. I am tired of you telling me what and what not to do. Come on Charles I'll be FINE!!!! give me a break [Charles stands up and looks at Jackson in disappointment] don't look at me that way, I am forty-four years old and I can take care of myself.
[Charles exits the stage without saying anything]
End of Scene six
Scene Seven:
[Months later Jackson received a phone call and was informed that his brother Charles has had a heart attack while walking in the park; Jackson continued drinking excessively, He goes to a bar where he meets Ruth Kligman]
Jackson: [answers the phone] Hello, Yes that's me good afternoon doctor.
[three seconds pass by]
Yes he is my brother
[five seconds pass and Jackson starts to break in tears]
Jackson: [questioning] What??? Are you sure its him, no, no, this has to be a mistake?
My brother was probably one of the healthiest men I ever knew, how can he have had a heart attack; that is impossible. [Hangs up the phone]
[Jackson refused to go to his brother’s funeral and instead he stayed in the farm continuing drinking and working on his painting]
Jackson: [Questioning] Why him, he was the only person that I cared about and loved with all my heart. I know that I wasn’t what you expected me to be but I promise in your memory that I’ll do anything to make you proud of me and my accomplishments.
I am sorry for what I have caused you, I feel horrible for not being in your funeral today, but you have to understand that I am really hurt at this moment and I just did not have the courage to stand up in front of you. [Screams] Why did the only person that wanted the best for me and tried everything he could to make my life better now is gone, why didn’t I listen to him [dripping paint]
[He gets a bottle of whiskey, looks at it for a second and starts chucking it then he lights up a cigarette and does the last strokes of his painting ]
Jackson: PERFECT [wipes his forehead with the palm of his hand he picks up his painting and nails it to the wall. When he finished he looks at his brother’s chair with watery eyes and starts walking towards it, sits down and begins desperately crying]
Jackson: Can’t take this anymore, why is everything bad happening to me, I feel so lonely Now, there is no one to keep me company [glances at his brothers wall picture] it’s just to quite, I got to get out of here. I have to go get more drinks my bottle is empty.
[Jackson reaches for the car keys that are on the desk, gets up from the chair and exits the stage quickly, the lights dim]
End of Scene 7
Scene 8:
[Lights come on , Jackson is sitting down at the bar full of people he’s drinking his pain, when Ruth enters the stage and stares at him for while then she sits next to him and asks for a drink ]
Ruth: Excuse me, can I get a drink?
[The bartender passes the drink to her and she glances over at Jackson sitting next to her]
Ruth: Are you Jackson Pollock?
[Jackson ignores her]
Ruth: Hello? [Ruth pokes Jackson on his shoulder to get his attention he looks at her]
Jackson : [angry tone] what do you want? Go bother someone else, leave me alone can’t you see I’m busy drinking [looks over at his drink]
Ruth: Sorry, I was just trying to be polite you don’t have to give me that attitude!
[She gets off her seat and as soon as she was about to go Jackson apologizes]
Jackson I’m sorry, I’m going through a rough time, many horrible things happened so fast that I’ve just been in a mood, [Jackson looks at her and stares for a second] Gosh you are beautiful
[Ruth Blushes and turns shyly]
Ruth: [giggles] oh my thank you, you’re not that bad looking either. So tell me are you Jackson Pollock? you didn’t answer me earlier.
Jackson: Unfortunately [looks down at his drink] and you are?
Ruth: My name is Ruth Kligman, Nice meeting you Pollock [shake hands and Jackson asks for another drink] so why are you here and alone? Are you married? In a relationship? Widow?
Jackson: None. I'm separated and it has been this way for years now.
Ruth: Do you still contact your wife?
Jackson: Once in a while to see if we can work things out between us but I think it’s not going to happen.[looks the other way]
Ruth: well then why don’t you divorce your wife?
Jackson: I don’t believe in divorce, but now let’s stop talking about her its getting uncomfortable we are here to enjoy our drinks.
Ruth: You should stop drinking it’s not good to drink too much, you can get sick and die sooner
Jackson: It doesn’t matter because one thing for sure is that we are all going to die someday. [Gulps down his whiskey] Honey we were born to die. Another drink please
Ruth: Are you serious another one? NO Pollock you should stop now [tries taking the drink away]
Jackson: What do you care about me? Besides how old are you? You look to young to attend this bar don't you think so?
Ruth: For your information I am 26. Old enough to go where I want and drink as much as I want to. [Takes Jackson drink and finish it]
Jackson: I like your attitude we should go out someday to get to know each other better, some company would not harm me [smiles at her]
Ruth: Sounds good to me, how about a Saturday night we could meet each other right here .
Jackson: I have a better idea!
Ruth: What is it?
Jackson: Why don’t you go to my house and spend the night with me?
Ruth: I do not know if I should, we barley [Jackson interrupts]
Jackson: Come on! By the way there is no one at the house waiting for me, and I just want some company?
Ruth: Ummmmm well...
Jackson: So would you?
Ruth: Okay lets go
[Jackson and Ruth get off the chair and exits the stage together]
End of scene 8
Scene 9:
[Jackson was working on last master piece, Blue Poles, early in the morning in his studio when Ruth enters the stage]
Ruth: [Yawning and stretches her arms] good morning Jackson, [Whining] ohhhh I have a huge head ache.[sits down on the sofa that is next to the desk]
Jackson: You’ll get use to it [dripping paint]
Ruth: that dance was off the hook. I really had fun. [Jackson: I’m glad] I was really lucky to get to know you. Remember the first time that we met?
Jackson: Yeaaaaa, why? Don’t you?
Ruth: Of course, How can I forget that day, it was my first time going to one of those bars, I'm glad that you were there or else I wouldn't of been here today with you.
[Jackson stops painting and looks at her without any expression]
Ruth: Mm mm I see that you take your job very seriously. Don’t you?
Jackson: I have been working on this art piece [points at the painting] for a while and I am about to finish but I don’t take painting as a job because it actually helps me to keep away from misery.
Ruth: What are you trying to say? Is your life really that bad?
Jackson: You have no idea [keeps painting]
Ruth: Do you want to talk about it?
Jackson: I don’t know it’s kind of a long story.
Ruth: It doesn't matter I am a very patient when it comes listening to stories.
Jackson: I’d rather not get too sentimental when I talk about my life anyways
Ruth: its okay, I am not going to force you to tell me anything you don’t want to talk about.
Jackson: Thank you for understanding; I really appreciate that [gets a drink and a cigarette].
Ruth: I just want your trust and get to know you more. Do you always drink and smoke this early?
Didn’t you have enough with yesterday’s alcohol?
Jackson: Don’t get me started [takes another gulp].
Ruth: Seriously Jackson I think you need some serious help. Don’t you think that you are becoming an alcoholic? You have been drinking a lot these days; I have never met a guy that drinks as much as you do.
Jackson: [angry tone] what are you trying to say that I am addicted to alcoholic [starts to splatter paint faster and faster] I have limits. And remember there is no one like me.
Ruth: Okay, okay, don’t get mad, I tell you this because I care about you and your health; can’t you see?
Jackson: How can you care so much about me? it’s been a couple of months that we have been going out and we have nothing formal, Do we? [Stops painting and looks at her]
Ruth: [Shocked] why do you ask if you have no idea what is going on between us? I have taken you seriously and I hope that you have done the same or else that would be very harmful.
Jackson: [continues painting] Of course I do, I may like drinking and forget half the things I do, But how can you assume that I don’t take you seriously. It was just a silly question calm down don’t overreact.
Ruth: I am not assuming. I can tell you’re not taking me seriously at all.
Jackson: Maybe because you are half my age. Seriously how can I take you seriously when people who sees us together on the street might think that you are my daughter haven't you thought of that?
Ruth: I do not care what other people have to say about us, age is not important when someone is in love and I really like you.
Jackson: How can a 26 year old female like a 43 year old male like me? This is silly
Ruth: I seriously think that this isn’t a big deal; I like you because you are actually nice to be around and because you are very talented and passionate.
Jackson: Really?
Ruth: Yes dummy [smiles]
[Jackson puts down the paint brush and hug Ruth and sits next to her]
Jackson: I like you too Ruth, you know what go get yourself ready because when I finish painting we will go out together to have some fun okay?
Ruth: Sounds good, besides what are you going to call this art piece, it is coming out good.
Jackson: I am going to call it [scratches his cheek] BLUE POLES [smiles and takes a sip of his drink] now hurry up because you ladies take a long time. I am going to take you to a special place.
Ruth: Where?
Jackson: Its a surprise.
Ruth: Ohh Jackson you are full of surprises, I like that.
[Ruth gets up from the sofa and exits the stage meanwhile Jackson is going to continue painting and the lights are going to fade]
End of Scene Nine
Scene Ten:
[Jackson and Ruth enters the stage holding hands and nice dressed. Jackson had taken Ruth to the same place they first met each other]
Music- The Doors
Ruth: Oh my god Jackson You remember, this is the same place we first met each other. Oh my gosh I am so happy, this is the happiest day of my life and all thanks to you Jackson.
Jackson: I told you I still remembered, Come on lets go get a drink.
Ruth: Let’s go then
[Ruth and Pollock sit down, lights go out for ten seconds then they go back on that is when nine hours have passed and Jackson was already drunk when Ruth was in a really bad mood]
Ruth: [frustrated] Jackson stop drinking I don’t want to be here anymore, look at you; you are blown away and you don’t want to dance with me so I rather leave NOW! I thought we were going to have a good time but it seems that you prefer drinking than dancing.
Jackson: [drunk] what are you talking about I am not drunk, just sit down and enjoy the music, there is no need to dance when we are having a good time here.
Ruth: Ughhhhhh I don't like it when you start acting this way. Besides you are drunk we should go now.
Jackson: I do not want to leave now I am having such a good time.
Ruth: sitting down, drinking, and smoking is not fun at all.
Jackson: Not for you but definitely for me.
Ruth: Jackson look at me [Jackson turns and looks at her] Look at you, you don’t look that good we better go now.
Jackson: [shouts] I am fine here, If you want to go you are free to do what you want [takes a sip and looks at Ruth]
[Ruth gets up and starts walking towards the exit when Jackson tries to stop her from leaving alone]
Jackson: Ruth I was just joking, wait are you seriously going by yourself?
Ruth: [angry] of course, I insisted you to stop drinking and to take me home. I don’t feel like begging you anymore to leave this place. I rather take the bus, than being in here with someone that doesn't even pay attention to me.
[Jackson gets up from his chair walks towards Ruth by the exit door]
Jackson: Okay , come on lets go, I’ll take you home that is the least I can do for you. [grabs Ruth by the arm, hesitates to go with him but Ruth sets herself free]
Ruth: [frustrated] I am not going with you anywhere when you are not in conditions to drive.
Jackson: Ohh please, you are not going to tell me what to do and what not to do, besides I know that you do not like taking the bus and I doubt that you would want to take it this late, where there is danger. You are to pretty to be alone in the streets don't you think, anything can happen to you this late at night.
[Ruth takes a glance to the exit door and thinks about what Jackson had said]
Ruth: Okay fine, but I’ll drive
Jackson: Are you crazy, I won’t let you drive my convertible home, come on let’s be honest you are not that good of a driver. That is why I should drive.
Ruth: ahhhh Jackson, Okay but let’s hurry up I don't want to be here any longer. [Starts walking towards the exit and Jackson follow behind but she stops him put his arms on his chest and warns him]
Ruth: Jackson, be careful, remember you just drank, watch were you are going and try not to rush Jackson: Damn I know how to drive, everything is going to be alright, you worry too much [He wraps his arm around her neck and they exit the stage the lights go out].
End of scene Ten
Scene 11:
[Jackson and Ruth enter the stage, they are going to get in the car and Jackson looks for the keys when he has trouble looking at the keys to open the door]
Ruth: Are you sure that you can handle this?
Jackson: [Looks at her in confusion] who do you think you are talking to?
Ruth: Okay, [Points at him] fine let’s go
[They get in the car and Jackson turns on the engine]
Ruth: [worried] I do not have a good feeling about this Jackson.
Jackson: [Glances over at her] There is nothing to worry about [Pats her head and smiles at her as he begins to drive]
[When Jackson is driving Ruth is looking at him with a worried and scared look]
Jackson: Stop looking at me like that you are making me nervous
Ruth: What are you talking about
Jackson: Ruth don’t act like you are not doing anything, you know exactly what you are doing.
Ruth: What!
Jackson: You are looking at me like if you are scared that I am going to crash or something.
Ruth: [yelling] well we might if you don’t slow down you are driving too fast, slow down
Jackson: [Arguing] You know what; you kept telling me what to do this whole entire evening, I’m getting sick and tired of it and I am not even speeding, it’s all in your imagination, go to sleep or something, you are stressing me out.
Ruth: How do you expect me to sleep if you are driving under the influences of alcohol.
Jackson: [Jackson looks at her with anger] You know what this relationship isn’t going [Ruth starts screaming]
Ruth: [Screams] JACKSON WATCH OUT!!!!! A TREE -IN FRONT OF YOU
[CRASH everything is silent for a moment]
Music- Ill see you again
[Ruth luckily wakes up, gets out of the car and takes Jackson with her]
Ruth: Jackson [shakes him] Jackson are you okay? [Gets out of the car and takes Jackson out of driver’s seat].
Ruth: [screams and cries] Jackson talk to me, nooooooooooo Jackson [sobs and holds Jackson very tightly because he doesn’t give any survival signs] you can’t be dead wake up. Wake up.
[Ruth takes out a phone from her front pocket and calls the Ambulance] Hello, Hello yes I need help immediately My boyfriend and I just got into a car accident please come immediately, Okay okay but hurry up because he doesn't have any pulse.
[At the sound of the ambulance the lights are going to fade, end of the play]
Jackson Pollock: Started his career as a Famous Abstract Artist in New York City.
Lee Krasner: The wife of Jackson Pollock
Ruth Kligman: The lover of Jackson Pollock
Charles Pollock: The older brother of Jackson Pollock
Scene one:
[Jackson Pollock is sitting in the couch watching television, until his older brother, Charles, approaches him]
[Charles enter the stage very frustrated]
Jackson: What is going on is something bothering you Charles?
Charles: And you still ask if something is bothering me when you are always laying down in a mess without being able to clean up after yourself or do something productive with your life! What is wrong with you?!?
[A minute of silence]
Jackson: I already graduated high school what else do you expect me to do?
Charles: It’s obvious that you haven’t taken the time to think about your future. Tell me what are you going to do when you have no one to depend on? What type of life are you going to have?
Jackson: I am still young, I have plenty of time ahead of me, why the hurry?
[Charles stares at Jackson in despair]
Charles: I didn't tell you this before, but I got accepted in the Art Student league in New York and I’ve been thinking about for a while now and I decided to attend and that will be my final decision.
Jackson: [uncomfortably intense]What does that have to do with me?
Charles: Don’t be foolish Jackson; this decision involves you as well. For I am your older brother and I have to look after you because you still don't know how to manage yourself, therefore, I would like for you to come with me.
Jackson: Why do you want me to go with you? I'm fine just the way I am, besides why would I want to move if we don’t have to pay rent where we live now.
Charles: Okay it’s your decision I’m leaving it up to you now, you are old enough and I'm tired of being behind your back the whole time so for now on you are responsible for your own actions. But later on I don’t want you to come up to me when you are in trouble.
[Jackson is distracted by the television.]
Charles: Jackson, are you listening to me [Jackson looks at Charles in a confused way] you know what, forget what I just said, I had it with you I'm packing my stuff and leaving in any time. I’ll call you when I arrive to New York. Take care for now and don’t get into trouble.
[Charles exits the stage with fury]
[Three weeks later the phone rings and Jackson pick it up]
Jackson: Hello, who is this? Oh hey Charles it’s been a long time since I have heard from you. How are you? Is everything alright?
Charles: [Background voice]Yeah everything is okay I’ve just been really busy, don’t worry.
Jackson: Okay.
[A deep silence arose between them]
Charles: [Charles tries to bring up the conversation] Soooo about that one day we had the discussion, look, I just want to apologize for “over reacting” [Jackson interrupts].
Jackson: Actually, I have been thinking about what we talked about and I feel that I should be preparing myself for the future and decided to go to New York to study at the art school.
Charles: Sounds perfect, all along I knew that you would make the right choice, besides I have seen your art work and I believe that you have a great potential and should take advantage of your art skills.
Jackson: Okay brother, thank you for the advice, take care and hope to be with you soon.
[Jackson begins packing his belongings with great enthusiasm and exits the stage and the lights go out]
End of scene One
Scene two:
[The lights will go on and Charles will be sitting on a chair painting on a canvas on his desk . Jackson enters the stage with a suitcase in his hand and a great excitement to see his brother]
Jackson: Hey I'm here, it’s really nice to see you again
Charles: Nice to see you too, tell me how was your flight?
Jackson: It was very pleasant; the service was very friendly, and caring. Very different then what I expected it to be like. [Jackson walks toward his brother’s painting]. But tell me what is that you are working on?
Charles: Oh this, [Points towards the painting] it’s the painting that I started working on ever since I came to New York. I hope it gets exhibited in an art museum.
Jackson: Its looking good so far, wish you the best of luck, well if there isn't anything to do inside I might as well go and take a tour around the city may be even go and visit an art museum, Ill be back before midnight to unpack my suitcase.
Charles: Take care and stay out of trouble. [He turns at Jackson with a big smile]
Jackson: There is nothing to worry about; I am not the same indiscipline boy that I was before. Instead of worrying about me so much you should go out and have some fun. Or if you want you can show me around?
[Charles looks at Jackson with a big smile and turns at his art work]
Charles: I would love that, [He stares at Jackson in great disappointment], but I am so busy right now, sorry maybe next time we will go out together.
Jackson: Ohh okay, just let me know when you will be available to spend some time together.
[Jackson leaves the stage]
- Jackson wasn’t back when Charles finishes his painting and realizes that it was past midnight and he starts to worry.]
Charles: I wonder where Jackson could be this late at night. What if something bad happened to him? [lights go out for a second or two]
[An hour later the door of Charles's study slams shut and Jackson comes inside drunk tripping over the furniture.]
Charles: [starts yelling at Jackson with anger] Where were you Jackson? Why are you here past midnight? I thought you changed Pollock, Why did you fill me up with all the crap about you being more responsible, mature. What happened to you? [Slaps Jackson in the face]
Jackson: [Acting dunk] what was that for?
Charles: [Charles is getting out of control] How dare you ask me that idiotic question! You know exactly why I slap you for. [Breathing hard] Oh my gosh I feel so stupid for believing that you have changed and became a responsible person. I would rather have you stayed in Arizona instead of coming here and stressing me out.
[Jackson is to drunk to pay attention to his brother so he falls asleep, Charles tries waking him up with his screaming but doesn't succeed]
Charles: Jackson how dare you!! You are getting out of the house early morning, so if I were you I would wake up and start looking for a place were to spend your days in New York. Are you listening to me?[Charles stops talking for a second and looks at Jackson who is sleeping in disbelief] You know what? You and I are going to have a serious talk tomorrow morning because later on I don’t want to be taking care of an alcoholic. Ughhh you are to drunk to listen.
[Charles starts walking away from the sleeping body]
Charles: [Starts muttering to himself] what an indiscipline boy, I should do something to help him before it is too late. But first I have to sleep; it’s been a long day for me.
[The lights dim out and Charles exit the stage while Jackson is still sleeping]
End of Scene Two
Scene Three:
[Its morning and Jackson wakes up with a head ache, he starts looking around the room with confusion as trying to figure out what has happened]
Jackson: What happened last night? Why am I in the studio?
[He tries to stand up but he is to dizzy to walk and he decided not to move where he was at and continues winning about the head ache]
Jackson: Aw-www my head, it feels like it is going to explode, I promise I will try not to drink again but let the pain release itself awwwww. I should go and make myself some black coffee to feel better.
[Charles enter the stage calmly]
Charles: [he speaks with a big sarcasm] How does it feel to wake up with a head ache? good doesn’t it? Well then I have to have a serious talk with you!
Jackson: Ughhh I am really sorry and I promise that this will never happen again, please give me another chance to show my repentance of everything bad I have done.
Charles: I do not know if I can believe in you again? Maybe this repentance is honest but I am so confused right now. Jackson I really care about you and want the best for you too. But I cant do this without your help. Please help me Jackson! I am not that young to be behind your back and look after you the whole time so put some effort in changing your behavior. For now I would like you to grab your belongings and walk out that door. When you feel that you have changed you are more than welcome to come back. Now please go.
[Jackson starts sobbing and pleads Charles for his forgiveness]
Jackson: [sobs] Charles please don't do this to me right now. I need you and you know that.
Charles: I am concern of that and that is why I want you to start becoming independent. This is for your own good as well.
Jackson: Please Charles, I have changed trust me, besides this was the first and last time I will come home drunk. Just give me another chance to prove myself right.
Charles: [Starting to feel sorry for Jackson] Please Jackson don’t make things more complicated than they are right now. Trust me it hurts me too when I see you suffering.
Jackson: Then why don’t you let me stay with you?
Charles: Because you have to start becoming independent, I thought I told you this before. My decision is already made and I want you to learn from this mistake so please grab your belongings and take them with you.
[Charles walks towards the door]
Charles: One more thing.
Jackson: Yes?
Charles: I want you out of the house before I come back from the grocery store.
[Charles Exit the stage and Jackson cries even harder, he begins to grab his belongings and exits the stage]
Charles: [angry] [rushes in with the groceries and slams the door, noticing that Jackson listened and left] did I do the right thing to Jackson?
[Thinks in deep silence, then sits down in the couch. The light go out]
End of Scene Three
Charles: Scene Four:
[five years later passed and Jackson came back in an evening to live with Charles in long island New York accompanied by Lee Krasner]
Jackson: Charles its been about five years that we haven't talk or seen each other so I decided to come and visit you, how was everything without me?[small chuckle]
[Charles stands up from his chair and walks towards Jackson to hug him]
Charles: Ohh Jackson I'm glad to see that you haven’t lost your sense of humor [laughs]. Everything has been alright, but I can’t say that I have been better without you. Hey, Looks like you have someone with you? [Looks towards Lee Krasner standing next to Jackson and greets her] Its nice meeting you Mrs.?
Lee: Lee Krasner, you can call me Lee, nice meeting you Charles [Shakes hands with Charles]
Jackson: [ashamed] Oh my pardon! Lee this is my older brother Charles and Charles this is my wife. [He looks at them both with a smile and puts his arm around Lee]
Charles: What a surprise, congratulations, come inside don’t stand there [They walked towards the couch and sat down when Charles was reaching for his wheelchair and sat in front of them]so for how long have you guys been married?
Lee: Not so long ago, we decided to take some time together to see if it would work out for both of us.
Charles: So Lee tell me something about you, where are you from, what is your profession? - Anything. I just want to get to know my sister in law a little better.
Lee: [Blushing] I was born in Brooklyn, New York, and surprisingly I became an Abstract Artist just like this charming guy [stares at Jackson and gives him a kiss on the cheek]
Charles: [Enthusiasm] Really? I knew everything will turn out good for you! You couldn’t have gotten someone better than Lee..Huh Jackson [pats Jackson's leg]. Look at her [Points at Lee] she is beautiful, nice, and talented, you’ve got it so easy so you better not disrespect this young lady as for she is your only wife.
Jackson: [sentimental tone] Why would I harm someone that I love.
Lee: Honey I have to use the restroom, can I be excused?
Jackson: Of course, the bathroom is the last door of the hall. Want me to show you where?
Lee: No its okay, I can handle it [stands up the couch and walks towards the door] excuse me Charles.
Charles: Go ahead, make yourself at home [Lee exist the stage] Now tell me Jackson how did you meet this girl?
Jackson: We met at an art exhibition here in New York. We were both presenting our art pieces when she came up to me and told me how my art was very influential, that’s how we met and later on I decided to take her out to eat to talk about art and we became close friends. Years have passed when I decided to declare myself. We got married in 1945 about five years ago. I’m sorry you couldn’t attend but I brought you some of our wedding pictures [Takes out the pictures from his back pocket and hands them to Charles]
Charles: [Charles grabs the pictures and starts to look them over] the pictures are so pretty [points at an individual picture] but I like this picture more because you both look in love [Passes the picture to Jackson]
Jackson: [grabs the picture and stares at it for a while] This picture is one of my favorites as well. [His voice starts to break as if he wanted to cry of happiness]You do not know how much she means to me, I do not know what would I do without her, she is the only person that can give me strength, hope, and courage to stay away from the bad habits I used to have. [Charles stares at Jackson in the eye] I can not even describe how much I love her.
Charles: It’s nice to hear that your love for Lee is honest.
Jackson: Trust me you have no idea. Okay changing of conversation, uuumm is it possible for me and Lee to move in and live with you. I know it has been so long that we haven’t seen each other and I thought I would surprise you. So what do you say?
Charles: Of course, after all those years of being alone I would love to have some company. You are more than welcome to move and bring your belongings any time you wish.
[The lights go off and the stage will be dark Jackson exit the stage]
End of Scene four:
Scene five:
[In one early morning Lee Krasner is in the studio sitting in the desk reading a magazine when Charles goes out to a friend’s house and exits the stage]
Charles: Good morning Lee [Lee:] Good morning Charles; I am going out to a friends house and might go buy some groceries, ill be back no time soon so do not wait for me. If Jackson asks for me just tell him where I went, By the way where is he?
Lee: He is at the bathroom but he’ll be here any minute.
Charles: Okay ill be back
[Charles exits the stage and Lee continues reading the magazine at the desk, while Jackson enters the stage and prepares himself to start painting]
Jackson: Good morning babe[ he kisses her cheek and then begins to set up the canvas] What are you reading?
Lee: Oh nothing important [She places the magazine on the table and clears her throat and stands up] Jackson there is something that I have to tell you.
Jackson: [Begins painting calmly] what is it honey? Is something bothering you?
Lee: well actually I’ve been thinking about how to say this in the right way [Pauses]
Jackson: [confused] what are you trying to say to me? [he looks up at Lee] is everything okay?
Lee: Ohh do not worry everything is fine, its just that we have been living with your brother for about two years already and you know that we have created a lot of art work together here in this farm and I will never forget that-.
Jackson: [inpatient] Please just get to the point. What are you trying to tell me, you are worrying me?
Lee: Okay then, I accepted an offer and that means that I have to travel all the way to Paris and work there. [Jackson stops painting and stays mute while looking at her] Jackson say something.
Jackson: What do expect me to tell you? It seems to me that you have already made a decision without consulting me.[ Starts painting more aggressively]
Lee: Jackson do not take it that way, trust me I was going to tell you earlier, but I was afraid you would of reacted this way. You have to understand that I have to get out of this barn to experience new things on my own [Throws her arms freely], I just can’t have you making my decisions I do not want to stay here the whole time any longer.[a moment of silence] I knew it wasn't a good idea to tell you.
Jackson: [Furiously painting avoiding eye contact with Lee] [sarcasm] If you weren’t planning to tell me anything or leave me without saying anything. You were just going to write a note.[stops painting and looks directly at Lee but she avoids his eye contact by looking at his art work]
Lee: [sad] Jackson don’t act like that it’s not as bad as it sounds, [looks up at him] everything is going to be fine between us if that is what you want.
Jackson: Lee how can you say [shouting] “if I want to”...... you know perfectly how much I love you, I tell you mostly all the time and you still tell me “If I WANT TO”
[Lee Krasner begins to scream too]
Lee: Calm down Pollock I knew you were going to take it in a bad way but I never expected you would take it this far. you did not even let me finish telling you how long-
Jackson: I do not want to know how long you were planning to leave but if you decided to go I will suggest you to pack now and leave fort the better.
Lee: Jackson stop overreacting, this is nothing to get mad at, why are you acting this way, [Jackson tries to ignore her and keeps painting] if this is the way you are going to act every time I travel I prefer to leave now and never come back, if that is what you want.
[Jackson starting to be inpatient and he stars painting faster]
Jackson: [shouting] Do whatever you please; I now understand that my opinion is not necessary.
Lee: Fine. it is obvious that I can’t live with you acting this way every time I have to travel, so I made my mind up and I am leaving [passes by Jackson and walks toward the exit of the stage in fury]
Jackson: [turns shouting] Lee! [Tries grabbing her by the arm but she passes to fast that Jackson’s hand slips her arm]
[Lee slams the door and exists the stage while Jackson stares at the door shut [sadly] then looks at the painting and slowly drips more paint on the canvas and sobs silently. The lights go off and the stage goes dark]
End of scene 5
Scene six:
[The stage is dark and you will hear Jackson drinking; when Charles enters the stage from the door the lights will be shining down at him]
Charles: [confused] What in the world is going on [looking around the room he turns on the light and sees Jackson sitting on the floor, covering his head with both of his hands and knees, next to the desk. When Charles first sees his brother on the floor he immediately thinks he is unconscious and walks rapidly toward him for help]
Charles:[slaps Jackson in the face] Jackson [shouting] Jackson! [Stares deeply at him] Jackson [panicky moves him from the shoulders] wake up, wake up.
[Jackson: opens his eyes]
Charles: Thank god you are okay, [hugs him] for a second I thought you were [pauses] never mind as long as you are fine now what is all the matter. Tell me why all of a sudden you began drinking, I thought you left it a long time ago, now look at you [points at his face] you look like a total disaster, why the change huh? Is it because of Lee?
Jackson: [drunk and screams angrily]Shut up, don’t ever dare to mention her name in this house again you understand?
Charles: [Stares at Jackson in despair] Okay I understand
Jackson: [drunk] She left [sobs] how can she leave me after all what we have been through, I thought she cared for me, but I guess work was more important than me [gulps on his beer]
[Charles snatches away the beer of Jackson’s mouth]
Charles: This is not going to help [throws the bottle to the floor; it breaks]
Jackson: [ stands up and shouts angry] Why did you do that for?
Charles: [looking up at Jackson and shouts] I am just trying to help you; alcohol is not the easy way out to your problems, can’t you understand that!
Jackson: You do not have to worry about me, I am going to be alright, [walking back and forth] leave me alone. I am tired of you telling me what and what not to do. Come on Charles I'll be FINE!!!! give me a break [Charles stands up and looks at Jackson in disappointment] don't look at me that way, I am forty-four years old and I can take care of myself.
[Charles exits the stage without saying anything]
End of Scene six
Scene Seven:
[Months later Jackson received a phone call and was informed that his brother Charles has had a heart attack while walking in the park; Jackson continued drinking excessively, He goes to a bar where he meets Ruth Kligman]
Jackson: [answers the phone] Hello, Yes that's me good afternoon doctor.
[three seconds pass by]
Yes he is my brother
[five seconds pass and Jackson starts to break in tears]
Jackson: [questioning] What??? Are you sure its him, no, no, this has to be a mistake?
My brother was probably one of the healthiest men I ever knew, how can he have had a heart attack; that is impossible. [Hangs up the phone]
[Jackson refused to go to his brother’s funeral and instead he stayed in the farm continuing drinking and working on his painting]
Jackson: [Questioning] Why him, he was the only person that I cared about and loved with all my heart. I know that I wasn’t what you expected me to be but I promise in your memory that I’ll do anything to make you proud of me and my accomplishments.
I am sorry for what I have caused you, I feel horrible for not being in your funeral today, but you have to understand that I am really hurt at this moment and I just did not have the courage to stand up in front of you. [Screams] Why did the only person that wanted the best for me and tried everything he could to make my life better now is gone, why didn’t I listen to him [dripping paint]
[He gets a bottle of whiskey, looks at it for a second and starts chucking it then he lights up a cigarette and does the last strokes of his painting ]
Jackson: PERFECT [wipes his forehead with the palm of his hand he picks up his painting and nails it to the wall. When he finished he looks at his brother’s chair with watery eyes and starts walking towards it, sits down and begins desperately crying]
Jackson: Can’t take this anymore, why is everything bad happening to me, I feel so lonely Now, there is no one to keep me company [glances at his brothers wall picture] it’s just to quite, I got to get out of here. I have to go get more drinks my bottle is empty.
[Jackson reaches for the car keys that are on the desk, gets up from the chair and exits the stage quickly, the lights dim]
End of Scene 7
Scene 8:
[Lights come on , Jackson is sitting down at the bar full of people he’s drinking his pain, when Ruth enters the stage and stares at him for while then she sits next to him and asks for a drink ]
Ruth: Excuse me, can I get a drink?
[The bartender passes the drink to her and she glances over at Jackson sitting next to her]
Ruth: Are you Jackson Pollock?
[Jackson ignores her]
Ruth: Hello? [Ruth pokes Jackson on his shoulder to get his attention he looks at her]
Jackson : [angry tone] what do you want? Go bother someone else, leave me alone can’t you see I’m busy drinking [looks over at his drink]
Ruth: Sorry, I was just trying to be polite you don’t have to give me that attitude!
[She gets off her seat and as soon as she was about to go Jackson apologizes]
Jackson I’m sorry, I’m going through a rough time, many horrible things happened so fast that I’ve just been in a mood, [Jackson looks at her and stares for a second] Gosh you are beautiful
[Ruth Blushes and turns shyly]
Ruth: [giggles] oh my thank you, you’re not that bad looking either. So tell me are you Jackson Pollock? you didn’t answer me earlier.
Jackson: Unfortunately [looks down at his drink] and you are?
Ruth: My name is Ruth Kligman, Nice meeting you Pollock [shake hands and Jackson asks for another drink] so why are you here and alone? Are you married? In a relationship? Widow?
Jackson: None. I'm separated and it has been this way for years now.
Ruth: Do you still contact your wife?
Jackson: Once in a while to see if we can work things out between us but I think it’s not going to happen.[looks the other way]
Ruth: well then why don’t you divorce your wife?
Jackson: I don’t believe in divorce, but now let’s stop talking about her its getting uncomfortable we are here to enjoy our drinks.
Ruth: You should stop drinking it’s not good to drink too much, you can get sick and die sooner
Jackson: It doesn’t matter because one thing for sure is that we are all going to die someday. [Gulps down his whiskey] Honey we were born to die. Another drink please
Ruth: Are you serious another one? NO Pollock you should stop now [tries taking the drink away]
Jackson: What do you care about me? Besides how old are you? You look to young to attend this bar don't you think so?
Ruth: For your information I am 26. Old enough to go where I want and drink as much as I want to. [Takes Jackson drink and finish it]
Jackson: I like your attitude we should go out someday to get to know each other better, some company would not harm me [smiles at her]
Ruth: Sounds good to me, how about a Saturday night we could meet each other right here .
Jackson: I have a better idea!
Ruth: What is it?
Jackson: Why don’t you go to my house and spend the night with me?
Ruth: I do not know if I should, we barley [Jackson interrupts]
Jackson: Come on! By the way there is no one at the house waiting for me, and I just want some company?
Ruth: Ummmmm well...
Jackson: So would you?
Ruth: Okay lets go
[Jackson and Ruth get off the chair and exits the stage together]
End of scene 8
Scene 9:
[Jackson was working on last master piece, Blue Poles, early in the morning in his studio when Ruth enters the stage]
Ruth: [Yawning and stretches her arms] good morning Jackson, [Whining] ohhhh I have a huge head ache.[sits down on the sofa that is next to the desk]
Jackson: You’ll get use to it [dripping paint]
Ruth: that dance was off the hook. I really had fun. [Jackson: I’m glad] I was really lucky to get to know you. Remember the first time that we met?
Jackson: Yeaaaaa, why? Don’t you?
Ruth: Of course, How can I forget that day, it was my first time going to one of those bars, I'm glad that you were there or else I wouldn't of been here today with you.
[Jackson stops painting and looks at her without any expression]
Ruth: Mm mm I see that you take your job very seriously. Don’t you?
Jackson: I have been working on this art piece [points at the painting] for a while and I am about to finish but I don’t take painting as a job because it actually helps me to keep away from misery.
Ruth: What are you trying to say? Is your life really that bad?
Jackson: You have no idea [keeps painting]
Ruth: Do you want to talk about it?
Jackson: I don’t know it’s kind of a long story.
Ruth: It doesn't matter I am a very patient when it comes listening to stories.
Jackson: I’d rather not get too sentimental when I talk about my life anyways
Ruth: its okay, I am not going to force you to tell me anything you don’t want to talk about.
Jackson: Thank you for understanding; I really appreciate that [gets a drink and a cigarette].
Ruth: I just want your trust and get to know you more. Do you always drink and smoke this early?
Didn’t you have enough with yesterday’s alcohol?
Jackson: Don’t get me started [takes another gulp].
Ruth: Seriously Jackson I think you need some serious help. Don’t you think that you are becoming an alcoholic? You have been drinking a lot these days; I have never met a guy that drinks as much as you do.
Jackson: [angry tone] what are you trying to say that I am addicted to alcoholic [starts to splatter paint faster and faster] I have limits. And remember there is no one like me.
Ruth: Okay, okay, don’t get mad, I tell you this because I care about you and your health; can’t you see?
Jackson: How can you care so much about me? it’s been a couple of months that we have been going out and we have nothing formal, Do we? [Stops painting and looks at her]
Ruth: [Shocked] why do you ask if you have no idea what is going on between us? I have taken you seriously and I hope that you have done the same or else that would be very harmful.
Jackson: [continues painting] Of course I do, I may like drinking and forget half the things I do, But how can you assume that I don’t take you seriously. It was just a silly question calm down don’t overreact.
Ruth: I am not assuming. I can tell you’re not taking me seriously at all.
Jackson: Maybe because you are half my age. Seriously how can I take you seriously when people who sees us together on the street might think that you are my daughter haven't you thought of that?
Ruth: I do not care what other people have to say about us, age is not important when someone is in love and I really like you.
Jackson: How can a 26 year old female like a 43 year old male like me? This is silly
Ruth: I seriously think that this isn’t a big deal; I like you because you are actually nice to be around and because you are very talented and passionate.
Jackson: Really?
Ruth: Yes dummy [smiles]
[Jackson puts down the paint brush and hug Ruth and sits next to her]
Jackson: I like you too Ruth, you know what go get yourself ready because when I finish painting we will go out together to have some fun okay?
Ruth: Sounds good, besides what are you going to call this art piece, it is coming out good.
Jackson: I am going to call it [scratches his cheek] BLUE POLES [smiles and takes a sip of his drink] now hurry up because you ladies take a long time. I am going to take you to a special place.
Ruth: Where?
Jackson: Its a surprise.
Ruth: Ohh Jackson you are full of surprises, I like that.
[Ruth gets up from the sofa and exits the stage meanwhile Jackson is going to continue painting and the lights are going to fade]
End of Scene Nine
Scene Ten:
[Jackson and Ruth enters the stage holding hands and nice dressed. Jackson had taken Ruth to the same place they first met each other]
Music- The Doors
Ruth: Oh my god Jackson You remember, this is the same place we first met each other. Oh my gosh I am so happy, this is the happiest day of my life and all thanks to you Jackson.
Jackson: I told you I still remembered, Come on lets go get a drink.
Ruth: Let’s go then
[Ruth and Pollock sit down, lights go out for ten seconds then they go back on that is when nine hours have passed and Jackson was already drunk when Ruth was in a really bad mood]
Ruth: [frustrated] Jackson stop drinking I don’t want to be here anymore, look at you; you are blown away and you don’t want to dance with me so I rather leave NOW! I thought we were going to have a good time but it seems that you prefer drinking than dancing.
Jackson: [drunk] what are you talking about I am not drunk, just sit down and enjoy the music, there is no need to dance when we are having a good time here.
Ruth: Ughhhhhh I don't like it when you start acting this way. Besides you are drunk we should go now.
Jackson: I do not want to leave now I am having such a good time.
Ruth: sitting down, drinking, and smoking is not fun at all.
Jackson: Not for you but definitely for me.
Ruth: Jackson look at me [Jackson turns and looks at her] Look at you, you don’t look that good we better go now.
Jackson: [shouts] I am fine here, If you want to go you are free to do what you want [takes a sip and looks at Ruth]
[Ruth gets up and starts walking towards the exit when Jackson tries to stop her from leaving alone]
Jackson: Ruth I was just joking, wait are you seriously going by yourself?
Ruth: [angry] of course, I insisted you to stop drinking and to take me home. I don’t feel like begging you anymore to leave this place. I rather take the bus, than being in here with someone that doesn't even pay attention to me.
[Jackson gets up from his chair walks towards Ruth by the exit door]
Jackson: Okay , come on lets go, I’ll take you home that is the least I can do for you. [grabs Ruth by the arm, hesitates to go with him but Ruth sets herself free]
Ruth: [frustrated] I am not going with you anywhere when you are not in conditions to drive.
Jackson: Ohh please, you are not going to tell me what to do and what not to do, besides I know that you do not like taking the bus and I doubt that you would want to take it this late, where there is danger. You are to pretty to be alone in the streets don't you think, anything can happen to you this late at night.
[Ruth takes a glance to the exit door and thinks about what Jackson had said]
Ruth: Okay fine, but I’ll drive
Jackson: Are you crazy, I won’t let you drive my convertible home, come on let’s be honest you are not that good of a driver. That is why I should drive.
Ruth: ahhhh Jackson, Okay but let’s hurry up I don't want to be here any longer. [Starts walking towards the exit and Jackson follow behind but she stops him put his arms on his chest and warns him]
Ruth: Jackson, be careful, remember you just drank, watch were you are going and try not to rush Jackson: Damn I know how to drive, everything is going to be alright, you worry too much [He wraps his arm around her neck and they exit the stage the lights go out].
End of scene Ten
Scene 11:
[Jackson and Ruth enter the stage, they are going to get in the car and Jackson looks for the keys when he has trouble looking at the keys to open the door]
Ruth: Are you sure that you can handle this?
Jackson: [Looks at her in confusion] who do you think you are talking to?
Ruth: Okay, [Points at him] fine let’s go
[They get in the car and Jackson turns on the engine]
Ruth: [worried] I do not have a good feeling about this Jackson.
Jackson: [Glances over at her] There is nothing to worry about [Pats her head and smiles at her as he begins to drive]
[When Jackson is driving Ruth is looking at him with a worried and scared look]
Jackson: Stop looking at me like that you are making me nervous
Ruth: What are you talking about
Jackson: Ruth don’t act like you are not doing anything, you know exactly what you are doing.
Ruth: What!
Jackson: You are looking at me like if you are scared that I am going to crash or something.
Ruth: [yelling] well we might if you don’t slow down you are driving too fast, slow down
Jackson: [Arguing] You know what; you kept telling me what to do this whole entire evening, I’m getting sick and tired of it and I am not even speeding, it’s all in your imagination, go to sleep or something, you are stressing me out.
Ruth: How do you expect me to sleep if you are driving under the influences of alcohol.
Jackson: [Jackson looks at her with anger] You know what this relationship isn’t going [Ruth starts screaming]
Ruth: [Screams] JACKSON WATCH OUT!!!!! A TREE -IN FRONT OF YOU
[CRASH everything is silent for a moment]
Music- Ill see you again
[Ruth luckily wakes up, gets out of the car and takes Jackson with her]
Ruth: Jackson [shakes him] Jackson are you okay? [Gets out of the car and takes Jackson out of driver’s seat].
Ruth: [screams and cries] Jackson talk to me, nooooooooooo Jackson [sobs and holds Jackson very tightly because he doesn’t give any survival signs] you can’t be dead wake up. Wake up.
[Ruth takes out a phone from her front pocket and calls the Ambulance] Hello, Hello yes I need help immediately My boyfriend and I just got into a car accident please come immediately, Okay okay but hurry up because he doesn't have any pulse.
[At the sound of the ambulance the lights are going to fade, end of the play]