A YOUNG LADY WALKS INTO A CLASSROOM. THERE IS AN OLDER MAN (BERNARD) BEHIND A DESK SURROUNDED BY BOOKS.
Young Lady:
Hello, Excuse me, is this room 3C?
Bernard:
Come in, come in, I'm Bernard Eimer but of course you already knew that.
YL:
I didn't, but hello Mr Eimer was just trying to find out some information about..
Bernard:
Writers club!
YL:
Yes that's the one. The receptionist sent me here.
Bernard:
And you wanted to know what qualifications I have to run a writing course.
YL:
Not really, I was only..
Bernard:
Well if you'll let me get a word in edgeways then I'll tell you. I've been writing for over 20 years now. Am I any good? It doesn't matter whether I'm any good or not. I am good by the way but that doesn't matter.
YL:
I'm sure you are, but all I wanted was..
Bernard:
You're probably wondering whether I've ever been published.
YL:
Not especially, as I was saying I just...
Bernard:
Well if you'll just stop badgering me then I'll tell you.
I have had over 5 short stories published but who's counting? It was 6 if you must know, big deal, It really doesn't matter.
YL:
No of course not as long as you...
Bernard:
I don't really write to be published anyway, I only write for myself, and if other people like what I create, then all well & good.
YL:
Yes I agree, you need to write for yourself and then..
Bernard:
I mean If I had written with the sole aim of being published I could have had 7 or 8 stories published by now but who's counting? Not me that's for sure.
YL:
I understand, all I really needed was..
Bernard:
When you join writers club you leave your ego at the door. I can't promise to make you as talented as me because this isn't about how very talented I am.
YL:
Sorry I'm in a bit of a rush What days ..
Bernard:
What days indeed, What crazy days they were back then.
I was like you once, young & inexperienced searching for a genius like I am these days who was willing to impart some of his wisdom on who I was back then just like you are now.
YL:
Maybe I could just take a leaflet or something?
Bernard:
The world of writing is a fickle mistress, Incredible talent can get you only so far as I've discovered to my cost, but there will always be someone with half the talent and twice the jealousy holding you back.
YL:
I'm starting to think this is a mistake..
Bernard:
Yes my young protege, you will make many mistakes along the path to becoming a writer almost as successful as me.
I shall teach you how to learn the craft, take the knocks & above all learn from those mistakes.
(looks up to notice that the young lady has left and he is talking to himself)
Bernard (CONT) Well, she won't get very far with that kind of arrogant attitude.
END
