Script

SIDE 1

Is there something you want?
 

Yes. I'd like to talk to you. I've noticed you at the bookseller's. Not many girls in this village like to read.

(A sudden thought strikes him. He extends book he is holding)

Would you like to borrow this book? It's very good.
 

No, thank you.
 

Because I'm not Jewish? Do you feel about us the way they feel about you? I didn't think you would.
 

I don't think we should be talking this way.
 

Go ahead, take the book. And later we can talk about it.

(CHAVA takes the book and places it on a table as MOTEL ENTERS)
 

Oh, Fyedka! Can I do something for you?
 

No, thank you.
(Starts out)
 

Oh, you forgot your book.
 

No, it's mine.
 

Thank you, Chava.

(CHAVA takes book and leaves the shop with FYEDKA)
 

Good day, Chava.
 

Good day.
 

(Pleasantly)
Fyedka.

Good day, Fyedka.

SIDE 2

(MOTEL'S tailor shop. MOTEL and CHAVA are in the shop. CHAVA EXITS from shop and meets FYEDKA outside)

Chava, let me talk to your father.

No, that would be the worst thing, I'm sure of it.

Let me try.

No, I'll talk to him. I promise.

(TEVYE ENTERS)

(Extending hand)
Good afternoon.

(Looks at CHAVA)
Good day.

(EXITS)

Good day. What were you and he talking about?

Nothing, but, Papa, Fyedka and I have known each other for a long time now and -

Chava, you must not forget who you are and who that man is.

He has a name, Papa.

Of course. All creatures on earth have a name.

Fyedka is not a creature, Papa. Fyedka is a man.

Who says that he isn't? It's just that he's a different kind of a man. As the Good Book says, "Each shall seek his own kind." Which means: a bird may love a fish, but where would they build a home together?

(Starts toward the tailor shop, but CHAVA grabs his arm)

The world is changing, Papa.

No. Some things will never change.

We don't feel that way.

We?

Fyedka and I. We want to be married.

Are you out of your mind?

But, Papa -

No! Never talk about this again. Never see him again! Never! Do you understand me?

Yes, Papa. I understand you.