star trek quote death

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22 Famous Star Trek Quotes that Will Live Forever

If you haven’t watched Star Trek , you’ve at least heard about it. The sci-fi television series created by Gene Roddenberry has earned millions of fans over the years.

Roddenberry was allegedly inspired by Gulliver's Travels and a TV series called Wagon Train to create Star Trek.  Each episode of the series is built as an incredible adventure, but also as a morality tale, considering that the episodes depict cultural realities and conflicts like war and peace, sexism, human rights, religion, economics, loyalty, racism and technology.

RELATED:  19 Yoda Quotes to Keep You Away From the Dark Side and Awaken the Greatness Within

Due to this approach, Star Trek is not only about space adventure and exploration. The franchise is also recognized for being one of the first TV series with a multiracial cast and applauded for its attitude toward civil rights.

The Star Trek world was full of wisdom and great lines, but here are 22 of the most meaningful quotes from its characters . 

A man either lives life as it happens to him, meets it head-on and licks it, or he turns his back on it and starts to wither away. -- Dr. Boyce

Logic is the beginning of wisdom, not the end. -- Spock

You may find that having is not so pleasing a thing as wanting. This is not logical, but it is often true. -- Spock

Live now ; make now always the most precious time. Now will never come again. -- Jean-Luc Picard

Sometimes a feeling is all we humans have to go on. -- Captain Kirk

With the first link, the chain is forged. The first speech censored, the first thought forbidden, the first freedom denied, chains us all irrevocably. -- Jean-Luc Picard

The prejudices people feel about each other disappear when they get to know each other. -- Captain Kirk

If we're going to be damned, let's be damned for what we really are. -- Jean-Luc Picard

Insufficient facts always invite danger. -- Spock

Perhaps man wasn't meant for paradise. Maybe he was meant to claw, to scratch all the way. -- Captain Kirk

In critical moments, men sometimes see exactly what they wish to see. -- Spock

Compassion: that's the one thing no machine ever had. Maybe it's the one thing that keeps men ahead of them. -- Dr. McCoy

Change is the essential process of all existence. -- Spock

Without followers, evil cannot spread. -- Spock

Our species can only survive if we have obstacles to overcome . You remove those obstacles. Without them to strengthen us, we will weaken and die. -- Captain Kirk

Curious, how often you humans manage to obtain that which you do not want. -- Spock

One man cannot summon the future. But one man can change the present! -- Spock

To all mankind -- may we never find space so vast, planets so cold, heart and mind so empty that we cannot fill them with love and warmth. -- Garth

You know the greatest danger facing us is ourselves, and irrational fear of the unknown. There is no such thing as the unknown. Only things temporarily hidden, temporarily not understood. -- Captain Kirk

A species that enslaves other beings is hardly superior -- mentally or otherwise. -- Captain Kirk

Now, I don't pretend to tell you how to find happiness and love, when every day is a struggle to survive. But I do insist that you do survive, because the days and the years ahead are worth living for! -- Edith Keeler

Live long and prosper! -- Spock

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School Teacher Gives Hater A Lesson They'll Never Forget

You've heard of fat shaming, you've heard of mommy-shaming, but have you ever heard of teacher-shaming?

Middle school teacher Ms. Amy Allen was on the receiving end of some serious hate when it came to how one stranger thought she conducted herself in the classroom. Thankfully, Ms. Allen was ready to teach this shamer a lesson — and in the most hilarious way possible.

This Middle School Teacher Just Wanted To Make Learning Fun Again

"I love teaching middle schoolers because they are awkward, and I’m awkward, so we get along." - Amy Allen

The comment read: "your a teacher act like it." For those who paid attention in English class, you'll notice the glaring grammatical errors. It was almost too easy. School was in session, and this was one teacher-shamer who was not going to be saved by the bell.

Ms. Allen's response was a classic teacher move. In a follow up video, she wrote the troll's comment on the whiteboard, then humorously corrected the errors, turning it into a mini-lesson for everyone watching. She added proper punctuation, fixed the grammar, and even included a tongue-in-cheek reminder to "Come see me if you have any further questions." Talk about schooling the critics!

The video quickly went viral, garnering millions of views and cheers from her followers. It wasn't just her clever correction that resonated; it was the way she handled criticism with grace and a touch of humor. After all, teachers are no strangers to spelling and grammar lessons, even when they come from unexpected places.

Watch Ms. Amy Allen's Video:

@_queenoftheclassroom Replying to @كل الكلبات تريد مني Come see me if you have any further questions. #qotc #iteachmiddleschool #weDEFINITELYdonthavefuninhere @Amy Allen ☀️ @Amy Allen ☀️ @Amy Allen ☀️ #Inverted

"My Students Are The Ultimate Hype People" – Her Class Was On Her Team

Despite the rude comment, Ms. Allen's students were firmly in her corner. They rallied behind her, tracking the video’s growing views like they were monitoring a pop quiz's success rate. As her comeback video gained traction, her class grew even more excited.

"What’s funny is I left my correction on the board accidentally, and the next day, students asked me what that was all about. When I explained it, they thought it was cool because 'why would anyone go after Ms. Allen'? At that point, the video had maybe 10,000 views. I never imagined the video would go viral." - Amy Allen

The views were racking up, so Ms. Allen made her fifth-period class a deal. If the video reached 1M views during their class time, they could sit wherever they wanted for an entire week. It was a deal too good to pass up. When the millionth view hit, the room erupted in cheers. Ms. Allen shared she was a classroom "rockstar." The support from her students was overwhelming, and it showed that a teacher's connection with their class goes beyond the four walls of the classroom.

It is moments like these that remind us why teachers do what they do. It's not just about teaching math, science, or grammar — it's about building a community where students feel supported and valued.

From Troll to Triumph — Ms. Allen Keeps It Cool and Classy

Despite the negativity from an online troll, Ms. Allen's response turned a mean-spirited comment into a viral success story. By demonstrating her teaching skills and her ability to laugh in the face of criticism, she showed everyone that the classroom is a place for learning, not just for the students, but sometimes for the critics too.

In the end, it's clear that Ms. Allen knows how to turn a classroom into a lively, welcoming space. She isn't afraid to play games, encourage laughter, and build a supportive environment. And when she faced an online troll, she handled it with the same playful energy that makes her classroom so special.

Her story is a reminder that even when faced with negativity, the best response is often a little humor, a lot of class, and a touch of teacher magic. So keep up the amazing work, Ms. Allen, because you're definitely teaching us all a thing or two about how to respond to haters with style and a smile.

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Ever wondered how power couple, Beyoncé and Jay-Z keep their love alive for 16 years? Hint: luck has nothing to do with it. If you've been blaming your failed relationships on "the wrong person"—think again. It may be time to reconsider who is really at fault.

Just like building a dream career, successful relationships don't happen overnight and they don't happen by chance. It takes hard work, thoughtful strategizing, and it isn't always "sexy." Forget the glitz and glam—these power couples know the real secret lies in setting goals and boundaries. From cozy date nights to self-care, these are a few A-listers who are masters at making love last.

Ready to unlock their secrets?

A Lasting, Passionate Relationship Isn't Just For Starry-Eyed Romantics—It's For Skeptics Too!

According to award-winning psychotherapist and TV host Dr. Jenn Mann, the #1 reason relationships don't make it past the 1-year mark is because as soon as our relationship doesn't go according to plan, tensions can get so high, the whole relationship crumbles.

"It is easy to get along in the honeymoon phase of a relationship. During the early stages, when we are falling in love, all we see is how alike we are and how wonderful our new partner is. We see our commonalities, not our differences. “You like pizza. I like pizza! We are so alike! We are perfect for each other!” We are merged. We feel like one person, a unit, a “we.” The first time we see our differences, it may feel like a huge betrayal (“What do you mean you voted for him?”), because it marks the moment when we are thrown back into the reality of being two separate people with different thoughts and beliefs." So what about all the people who make it past the honeymoon phase? The "1 year mark"? Does that mean they have it all figured out? Jenn Mann , Instyle

RELATED: After 40 Years Together Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell Refuse to Marry–How They Work Against the Rules

Maybe...but maybe not. Ask yourself are your partner really share a deep and powerful connection, or are you just co-existing...like glorified roommates?

We've all heard the dreaded saying, "I love them but I'm not in love with them"—in fact, we've probably even said it ourselves, but what if we told you that being "in love" isn't the luck of the draw you think it is?

What Are Relationship Goals? Why Are They Important?

Relationship goals are more than just whimsical fantasies or Instagram-worthy snapshots; they are the guiding principles that steer a couple toward a fulfilling and harmonious partnership. At their core, relationship goals encompass the shared visions, aspirations, and milestones that both partners aim to achieve together. These goals provide a roadmap for growth, fostering communication, understanding, and mutual respect along the way.

Most importantly, they serve as your relationship-sonar in times of turbulence so you and your co-pilot can navigate the storm together. From building trust and deepening intimacy to navigating challenges as a united front, setting relationship goals cultivates a sense of purpose and commitment that strengthens the bond between partners.

In essence, relationship goals aren't just important—they are the foundation upon which enduring love is built.

How to Get Clear on Your Love Goals

CANNES, FRANCE - MAY 12: Actor George Clooney and his wife Amal Clooney attend the "Money Monster" premiere during the 69th annual Cannes Film Festival at the Palais des Festivals on May 12, 2016 in Cannes, France.

Clemens Bilan/Getty Images

Whether you're in a happily committed relationship, enjoying the thrill of new love, or searching for a partner, setting relationship goals is within everyone's reach. But before we dive into pursuing the love we desire, it's important to have a clear idea of what that love actually looks like.

Some Questions To Ask Yourself

• What does my ideal, healthy relationships look like?
• What romantic relationships do I idealize?
• How would my partner and I stay on the same page or resolve conflict?
• How do I prefer to receive love from my partner?
• How would my partner and I best communicate in everyday life?

When it comes to setting relationship goals, it's not one-size-fits-all. Getting a clear picture of what a healthy relationship looks like for you may be vastly different than what it looks like for a friend or a family member.

Don't be afraid to compare notes but try and stay away from comparing goals.

The 8 Most Important Couple Goals To Set And When

​NEW YORK, NY - MAY 05: Actors Blake Lively (L) and Ryan Reynolds attend the "Charles James: Beyond Fashion" Costume Institute Gala at the Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 5, 2014 in New York City. 

Photo by Mike Coppola/Getty Images

First and foremost, relationship goals should be something both you and your partner set together. Setting one-sided couple goals probably isn't the best idea and will likely lead to disappointment. You have to start somewhere—and the best place to start is on the same page.

"When Ryan and I got together, we made a rule not to work at the same time so that we could always prioritize our personal life. That takes working really hard when we're not. Just like financial planning and sustaining that - it takes balance." Blake Lively, Further Ado Podcast

If you're drawing a blank on what an appropriate relationship goal looks like, here are the 8 most important things to know when it comes to making your relationship work.

#1. Understand Each Other's " Love Language "

Counselor, Gary Chapman coined the widely popular theory of the "Five Love Languages". In his work, Chapman found that couples often had difficulty feeling and expressing love (despite their partner's best efforts). So he broke down the themes from these discussions into what's known as the five love languages:

• Physical touch
• Quality time
• Acts of service
• Words of affirmation.

Chances are, you and your partner don't have the same love language. The chances are even higher that you show your partner love the way you want to receive love. It's a bit of a trap. The problem probably looks a little something like this :

• After a long work week, you spend hours cooking your partner their all-time favorite meal (acts of service)—the least they could do is wash the dishes (acts of service).
• Instead, the dishes pile up in the sink while they run over to the TV and put on your favorite movie for a Netflix and cuddle sesh (Quality Time, Physical Touch).
• Even though their heart's in the right place, you can't enjoy the movie because you're too busy thinking if they really "loved" you...that casserole dish wouldn't be soaking in the sink.

It easy to see why identifying you and your partner's love language is a quick way to get crossed wires, uncrossed. Good news is, "quality time" is one of the most common love languages and it here's a simple hack to get it right.

#2. Commit To A Weekly Date Night — "Don't Stop The Romance"

NEW YORK, NY - CIRCA 1978: Suzanne Somers and husband Alan Hamel at Studio 54 circa 1978 in New York City.

Robin Platzer/IMAGES/Getty Images

If there's one thing Suzanne Somers and Alan Hamel knew how to get right—it was romance.

After 55 years together, Somers heartbreakingly passed away in 2023 and fans were overwhelmed by Hamel's masterful letter he wrote to Somers in her final days. He found a way to pack 55 years of love into one last, beautiful, tearjerking punch.

READ MORE: On Her Final Night, Suzanne Somers’ Read Alan Hamel’s Love Letter – A Beautiful Look at Love After 46 Years

But even though the love of his life would leave him too soon—Hamel and Somers lived with no regrets. They made every moment on earth together count. In rain or shine—dressed up or dressed down—the soulmates famously shared the secret to their marriage:

"Listen to one another, give each other a lot of attention, keep it exciting, date. My marriage is very romantic. … We might sit here and have a tequila. … We dance, I cook, we sit out and watch the moonlight on the ocean." Suzanne Somers

They also reportedly had sex twice a day—but who's counting!

#3. Maintain The Physical Connection

TOPSHOT - US singer-songwriter Taylor Swift kisses Kansas City Chiefs' tight end #87 Travis Kelce after the Chiefs won Super Bowl LVIII against the San Francisco 49ers at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada, February 11, 2024.

PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty Images

While we may not all have the libido of ThighMaster influencer Suzanne Somers we don't have to! When it comes to setting relationship goals around intimacy don't underestimate the significance of physical touch.

Incorporating consistent physical connection into your relationship offers numerous benefits. Simple gestures like hand-holding, hugs, or a reassuring pat on the shoulder can trigger the release of oxytocin, the "feel-good hormone," while also reducing cortisol levels, the body's stress hormone.

While physical intimacy is undeniably important, it's crucial to understand that it's just one facet of intimacy in a relationship. Intellectual, spiritual, and emotional connections are equally vital. Creating a safe and comfortable environment where both partners understand each other's preferences and boundaries enhances the pleasure derived from physical touch.

However, it's essential to approach physical intimacy with sensitivity and awareness. Attempting to force physical closeness or using it as a substitute for deeper emotional connection can backfire. Achieving a healthy balance in physical touch requires open communication, mutual understanding of body language, and respect for each other's boundaries.

Remember, physical connection encompasses more than just sexual intimacy. From a warm hug in the morning to a sweet kiss goodnight, there are countless ways to express affection and strengthen the bond with your partner.

You don't need to be an expert in massage therapy to reap the benefits of physical touch—simple gestures can go a long way in nurturing intimacy and emotional well-being. So, prioritize physical connections and make them an integral part of your relationship journey.

However, try not to get the purpose of the "love languages" confused. Showing your partner "love" is so important but it's not a substitute for the sometimes hard conversations.

#4. Improve Your Communication

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When it comes to love communication really is key—and miscommunications are one of the first things that can tear a couple apart.

As you’re building your list of goals, an important thing to think about is the way you and your partner communicate. It's easy to make the assumption that our partner knows exactly how we feel–—but assumptions can be deadly to a relationship. No matter how long the two of you have been together, your partner can never know what you truly feel unless you tell them. So prioritize communication.

"If I was going to have an equal voice with this very opinionated man, I had to get myself up." - Michelle Obama, "Becoming"

Understanding how your partner feels and why they think this way is critical to a healthy romantic partnership. Different backgrounds, upbringings and experiences can sometimes make it difficult to see things from our partner's perspective. Make it part of your relationship goals to better understand one another.

If communication is a couple goal you both want to prioritize but have trouble with, seeking the help of a licensed therapist to act as an unbiased evaluator can be a great tool to utilize.

Just ask Barack Obama and Michelle Obama! After 30 years together, the former President and First Lady have openly credited therapy as a huge help in making sure they are always on the same page!

#5. Discuss Your Shared Values And Prepare For Values To Change AS You Grow

TOPSHOT - US actor Ben Affleck kisses US actress and singer Jennifer Lopez as they arrive for the screening of the film "The Last Duel" presented out of competition on September 10, 2021 during the 78th Venice Film Festival at Venice Lido.

FILIPPO MONTEFORTE/AFP via Getty Images

One of the biggest miscommunications a couple can have is thinking they have the same values—only to find out, in big relationship-defining moments they couldn't be more wrong. A relationship-defining moment could be when a couple is deciding how they want to raise their children or whether or not they want to get married. This discovery can be devastating. The million-dollar question is, how do you avoid it?

Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck are great examples of a Hollywood "it" couple who had miscommunications and learned from it. "Bennifer" didn't make it the first time around—and the exes went on to raise their children in very different ways—with Lopez opting for a more lavish Miami lifestyle and Affleck keeping it low-key in LA. So what changed? What made this couple reunite years later?

Did the stars align? Or did they just get clear on their shared values?

Though the two went their separate ways in 2004, 17 years later they resurrected one of Hollywood’s favorite romances. After being spotted on multiple loved-up outings and at red-carpet appearances together, they were finally married in 2023. But before they tied the knot the couple made it a priority to talk about what mattered and how this time was going to be different.

In an exclusive sit down with VOGUE, Lopez shared how the second time around was even better than the first. They had years to mature and become full-formed individuals. When they reunited they were no longer "two halves" struggling to make a whole. They were two whole people coming together who put their shared family values first, instead of their careers.

He’s a wonderful, wonderful father and father figure to them as well, ’cause he has his own three beautiful children and then there’s us. He’s fantastic. He really steps up to the challenge of what [being a stepfather] is and what that means, and they love him." Jennifer Lopez, VOGUE (2023)

Lopez and Affleck's story is a revealing reminder of the significance of aligning with a partner who shares your values, particularly when envisioning a future together. While initial discussions about important topics such as living arrangements, family planning, and career aspirations may lay the foundation for a strong connection, it's crucial to recognize that values can evolve over time.

Continual communication about evolving priorities and aspirations is essential for maintaining harmony and alignment within the relationship. Whether it's a shift in living preferences or a newfound desire to establish roots in a specific location, addressing these changes openly and honestly fosters understanding and prevents potential conflicts down the road.

If identifying your and your partner's values may feel too broad, here are the 7 most important "core values " according to psychotherapist and celebrity relationship guru, Esther Perel.

• Communication : Keeping open lines of communication with your partner can set you up to have a successful relationship. The busyness of life can make it challenging for couples to keep one another informed. However, maintaining a clear back-and-forth of information is the only way to ensure the relationship will be sustainable.
• Equality : Seeing each other as equals fosters mutual respect. This can create a deeper emotional connection and create greater intimacy between you and your partner.
• Honesty : Honesty and trust go hand in hand. Being honest with your loved one allows you to build a healthy relationship. Without honesty, the foundation of the relationship can falter and lead to heartbreak.
• Intimacy : Take time for physical and emotional intimacy. You should not ignore a healthy sex life, frequent displays of affection, and date nights.
• Shared beliefs : Religious beliefs can play a significant part in a person’s life. Though religious differences do not always signal a deal-breaker, having shared beliefs can make navigating through life together, especially if parenting, easier.
• Trust : Every good relationship needs a foundation of trust. Relationship experts claim trust is the most important value of every successful relationship. Without trust, romantic relationships quickly deteriorate.
• Validation : Emotional validation is the process of making your partner feel understood. Ensure you acknowledge their points of view and emotions. Emotional validation provides mental health benefits and is a healthy way to care for your partner's well-being.

While it's highly unlikely you and your partner will share all values, you and your partner must have at least 3-5 of these values in common.

#6. Support One Another—No Matter What"Always supporting me (literally)"

The #1 most important shared values a couple needs to have, is family values. David Beckham and Victoria Beckham may just be the best example when it comes to demonstrating how powerful supporting your partner can be (literally)! After all, you're not just building a life together...you're building your forever family.

Even though celebs are stars in their own right—over 25 years together have proven the power couple are partners in work and in life. The couple share four children: Brooklyn , 24, Romeo , 21, Cruz , 19, and Harper Seven , 11.

In their widely successful Netflix doc, Beckham , The Beckhams unpack years of their life together. The ups (winning a World Cup), the downs (the cheating scandal that nearly broke them), and everything in between!

The power couple may lead crazy busy lives but it's never stopped them from making sure family comes first.

"Running a business [and] most importantly, being a mum, wouldn't be possible without David. Not only is he the most incredible father, but he's supportive and someone who loves and inspires me every single day." Victoria Beckham, Glamour Women of the Year Award.

The bottom line is—if you're putting them before you and they are putting you before them, you have the best chance for success. But supporting your partner can look different depending on the situation. It's not about blindly agreeing to everything they say. Sometimes it looks like challenging their beliefs to help them grow

#7. Fight Fair—Be A "Master Negotiator"

EAST HAMPTON, NY - JULY 06: Barbra Streisand and James Brolin attend the "And So It Goes" premiere at Guild Hall on July 6, 2014 in East Hampton, New York.

Sonia Moskowitz/Getty Images

Disagreements in relationships are inevitable. How delicately a couple navigates conflicts can make or break a relationship. So that's why if you're going to fight, fight fair. Or in other words: compromise!

"I think everybody needs to be a negotiator. Everybody needs to have patience and know when to take a walk." James Brolin, PEOPLE

After 25 years of marriage to the legendary diva Barbra Streisand, it should go without saying that Brolin knows a thing or two about conflict resolution. His advice couldn't be more spot on.

RELATED: Barbra Streisand and James Brolin’s Advice for a Successful Marriage Is Seriously Simple

Research suggests that "happy couples" avoid criticism, steer clear of extreme language, and prevent arguments from escalating through joint problem-solving.

If you know your partner shuts down when things get heated, don't push their boundaries and force them to give you answers. Step back. Give them space to think. Or in James Brolin's words let them "take a walk."

Fighting fair can look like this:

• Knowing how your partner's conflict resolution style may differ from your own
• Respecting your partner's boundaries
• Making your needs known

If this all sounds like a lot—one simple trick to remember when you're in a heated debate with your partner is to avoid starting a sentence with "you always..." or "you never..."!

Do they always leave the toilet seat up? They never take out the garbage?

Probably not. But the truth is, remembering this when we're "seeing red" can feel impossible. In the middle of a fight—the #1 most important thing to remember is this—what outcome do we really want after passions cool and the fight is over?

Do we want to hurt or do we want to heal?

#8. Manage Your Emotions—Don't Forget You Want The Same Outcome!

9th November 1999: Married American actors Sarah Jessica Parker and Matthew Broderick smiling while standing in front of a handheld 'Access Hollywood' microphone at the For All Kids Foundation's Second Annual White Rose Awards Gala at the Marriott Marquis in Times Square, New York City.

Karl Feile/Hulton Archive/Getty Images

It shouldn't come as a surprise that effective communication is critical for a healthy relationship, but just because this goal is simple—doesn't mean it's easy.

When we have a problem with our partner it can be tempting to "outsource" for advice. We may call our mom or a best friend. We swear we're "just venting," but a lot of the time what we are looking for is advice.

That's not always a bad thing! But it can be a slippery slope (especially when you're not dealing with a licensed professional).

We can be quick to tell everyone what our problem with our partner is...except our partner!

That's why after over 30 years of marriage to Matthew Broderick, Sarah Jessica Parker's best piece of advice is to "keep things just between the two of you".

RELATED: Sarah Jessica Parker and Matthew Broderick’s Advice to a Lasting Marriage Is One Very Simple ‘Secret’

Asking outside opinions can distract us from dealing with the real problem. We can't expect someone to change if they don't know what is going on with us, right?

If Your Partner Calls You The More "Emotional" One...

If your partner calls you the more "emotional" one, when problems arise, you're probably pretty reactive. Chances are you read into every little action and behavior—when they seem "distant" you take it personally.

The "emotional one" is the person pacing in the living room, interrogating their partner who sits silently on the couch cross-armed. It's confusing. The more you try to "communicate"—the more they shut down.

But remember facts are not feelings! Sometimes when you think you're communicating—you're not. You may phrase your insecurities like a question—but really you're making a statement.

For Example: In a tense car ride after leaving your mother-in-law's house you may ask your partner, "Why do you never stand up for me?" Even though it's phrased like a question it's not. You're telling them they never stand up for you. It makes sense they may get defensive or shut down completely.

That's not a conversation. That's a confrontation.

If you're a volcanic eruption of emotions all your partner is going to want to do is step on rocks to dodge the hot lava!

Conflict Resolution Tip: For The "Emotional Ones"

Try taking a beat and not being so reactive. Breathe and ask yourself if the big emotions you're experiencing are rooted in reality. Then sit with it for a few days.

If you're still feeling you have something you need to say, then say it!

Your partner may get defensive but trust they will come around—because they want your relationship to work too. Don't jump on every little word they say. Wait it out. Actively listen instead of waiting for what you want to hear.

Don't take their pace personally. Just because you may want to "fix" the problem right away, doesn't mean it's always the right answer.

If Your Partner Calls You The More "Emotionally Unavailable" One...

For the "emotionally unavailable" ones, communicating looks completely different.

Unlike their partners, the "emotionally unavailable" ones tend to suppress and detach from their relationship conflicts. This can lead to big miscommunications that eventually push their partner away in the long run—which isn't what they want!

If the "Emotional" partner seems to care too much— the "emotionally unavailable" partner doesn't seem to care at all. However no matter how convincing their act may be, this isn't the truth.

The emotionally unavailable partner wants to be seen and heard too. They just don't know how to process their feelings at the same rate! The "emotional" partner has a tendency to take over the conversation and leave little room for the "emotionally unavailable" partner to process their feelings and say their piece.

So instead, they shut down. But what these personality types don't understand is their partner wants to hear how they feel. They just have a hard time asking instead of guessing.

RELATED: HOW YOUR ATTACHMENT STYLE AFFECTS YOUR RELATIONSHIP

Once you can identify why this caused you to feel a certain way, try and get into these habits:

• Talk to loved ones about what they’re feeling
• Write down what you think and feel
• Try meditation or therapy
• Exercise to relieve stress and increase endorphins
• Practice being aware of their thoughts when they’re emotional
• Remove themselves from an emotional situation if it is becoming uncontrollable

Don't be afraid to discuss these goals with your partner. It's about progress not perfection. They just want reassurance that you care. Don't be afraid to ask for them to work on their emotional regulation too.

These sorts of goals are often best met when both parties are working together, and often key components of a more lasting love.

If nothing else remember: it's not a confrontation, it's a conversation!

How to set goals: a normal and healthy part of a relationship.

You understand why it's essential to set goals in a healthy and thriving relationship and have a few couple goals in mind that you'd like to discuss with your partner. Now it's time to sit down and have a conversation. Here are a few tips for setting relationship goals with your significant other.

• Choose a neutral space to discuss relationship goals
• Determine the length of time for each relationship goal
• Set check-in dates for each relationship goal
• Include at least one fun relationship goal
• Make sure your relationship goals are measurable
• Evaluate how your love goals make you feel
• Make sure your couple goals are equally weighted

Don't just set and forget your goals. Consistency is key. Achieving goals requires ongoing work from both you and your partner.

It Works If You Work It—Because You're Worth It!

Setting relationship goals takes time and effort – but the payoff is worth it. Even if you decide to start small, setting couple goals will undoubtedly yield a stronger relationship.

However it's important to remember while there is no shame in working on your relationship don't mistake setting goals with trying to change your partner. Sadly, sometimes when a relationship has soured it's a case of not-meant-to-be that all the self-help books in the world can't fix.

However, if you're merely ironing out the wrinkles with the right person and you both share aligned love goals, you'll have a clear pathway for achieving them and a means of assessing your relationship goals as you move forward. It's important to keep in mind that working towards relationship goals should be a positive endeavor – something that feels rewarding and enjoyable.

"Every woman in her late 20s goes through a period where she just doesn't believe love is out there anymore, but it is. And I think the minute you stop looking for it is when it comes for you." Kristen Bell

With the right tools, effort and mindset, you can use relationship goals to build the future you want with your partner.

KEEP READING:

Is envy harming your relationship it’s time to understand the three dimensions of jealousy.

Copyright © 2024 Goalcast

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75 of the Most Inspiring Star Trek Quotes

Fans have always known that Star Trek is an amazing show. The rest of us would do well to get on board. The series is actually full of timeless and universal wisdom.

The fascinating characters in the Star Trek series offer insights about ourselves and others, and encourage us all to live well. Here are 75 of the most inspiring Star Trek quotes.

Our Favorite Star Trek Quotes

• “Evil does seek to maintain power by suppressing the truth.” “Or by misleading the inoccent.” Spock and Dr. McCoy
• “Improve a mechanical device and you may double productivity. But improve man, you gain a thousandfold.” Khan Noonien Singh
• “Compassion: that’s the one thing no machine ever had. Maybe it’s the one thing that keeps men ahead of them.” Dr. McCoy
• “It is possible to commit no errors and still lose. That is not a weakness. That is life.” Captain Jean-Luc Picard
• “You can use logic to justify almost anything. That’s its power. And its flaw.” Captain Cathryn Janeway
• “Logic is the beginning of wisdom, not the end.” Spock
• “Things are only impossible until they’re not.” Captain Jean-Luc Picard
• “I am pleased to see that we have differences. May we together become greater than the sum of both of us.” Surak
• “Without followers, evil cannot spread.” Spock
• “The prejudices people feel about each other disappear when they get to know each other.” Captain James T. Kirk
• “Time is fluid…like a river with currents, eddies, backwash.” Spock
• “A library serves no purpose unless someone is using it.” Mr. Atoz
• “Humans do have an amazing capacity for believing what they choose — and excluding that which is painful.” Spock
• “Live now; make now always the most precious time. Now will never come again.” Captain Jean-Luc Picard
• “Change is the essential process of all existence.” Spock
• “Without freedom of choice there is no creativity.” Captain James T. Kirk
• “With the first link, the chain is forged. The first speech censored, the first thought forbidden, the first freedom denied, chains us all irrevocably.” Captain Jean-Luc Picard
• “Live long, and prosper.” Spock
• “If we’re going to be damned, let’s be damned for what we really are.” Captain Jean-Luc Picard
• “Human beings do not survive on bread alone … but on the nourishments of liberty. For what indeed is a man without freedom … naught but a mechanism, trapped in the cogwheels of eternity.” Harry Mudd
• “Your will to survive, your love of life, your passion to know … Everything that is truest and best in all species of beings has been revealed to you. Those are the qualities that make a civilization worthy to survive.” Lai the Vian
• “There is a way out of every box, a solution to every puzzle; it’s just a matter of finding it.” Captain Jean-Luc Picard
• “You may find that having is not so pleasing a thing as wanting. This is not logical, but it is often true.” Spock
• “Sometimes a feeling is all we humans have to go on.” CaptainJames T. Kirk
• “I speak of rights! A machine has none; a man must. If you do not grant him that right, you have brought us down to the level of the machine; indeed, you have elevated that machine above us!” Samuel T. Cogley
• “When you eliminate the impossible, whatever remains, however improbable, must be the truth.” Spock
• “Those who want war will find causes, no matter how many of them you take away.” Diane Duane
• “A little suffering is good for the soul.” Captain James T. Kirk
• “The heart is not a logical organ.” Dr. Janet Wallace
• “Pain is a thing of the mind. The mind can be controlled.” Spock
• “To all mankind — may we never find space so vast, planets so cold, heart and mind so empty that we cannot fill them with love and warmth.” Garth
• “It can be argued that a human is ultimately the sum of his experiences.” Benjamin Sisko
• “It would seem that evil retreats when forcibly confronted.” Yarnek of Excalbia
• “When a child is taught, it’s programmed with simple instructions, and at some point, if its mind develops properly, it exceeds the sum of what it was taught, thinks independently.” Dr. Daystrom
• “When governments murder those who speak the truth, it is time to get new governments.” Diane Duane
• “Believing oneself to be perfect is often the sign of a delusional mind.” Data
• “I would be delighted to offer any advice I can on understanding women. When I have some, I’ll let you know.” Captain Jean-Luc Picard
• “Intuition, however illogical, is recognized as a command prerogative.” Captain James T. Kirk
• “Violence in reality is quite different from theory.” Spock
• “I object to intellect without discipline; I object to power without constructive purpose.” Spock
• “It’s hard to believe that something which is neither seen nor felt can do so much harm.” “That’s true. But an idea can’t be seen or felt.” Vanna and Captain James T. Kirk
• “Time is the fire in which we burn.” Malcolm McDowell
• “Men don’t talk peace unless they’re ready to back it up with war.” Col. Green
• “It’s time you learned that freedom is never a gift. It has to be earned.” Captain James T. Kirk
• “May I point out that I have gotten a chance to examine your counterparts closely. They are brutal, savage, uncivilized and illogical. They are in every way examples of Homo sapiens, the very flower of humanity.” Spock
• “There’s only one kind of woman …” “Or man, for that matter. You either believe in yourself or you don’t.” Captain James T. Kirk and Harry Mudd
• “Life and death are seldom logical.” “But attaining a desired goal always is.” Dr. McCoy and Spock
• “This is why one must be careful with life,” her father had said, in very controlled wrath. “Death is the most hateful thing. Don’t allow the destruction of what you can never restore.” Diane Duane
• “Can you imagine how life could be improved if we could do away with jealousy, greed, hate …” “It can also be improved by eliminating love, tenderness, sentiment — the other side of the coin.” Dr. Roger Corby and Captain James. T Kirk
• “I fail to comprehend your indignation, sir. I have simply made the logical deduction that you are a liar.” Spock
• “Many Myths are based on truth.” Spock
• “To be human is to be complex. You can’t avoid a little ugliness – from within – and from without.” Captain James T. Kirk
• “Every living thing wants to survive.” Spock
• “Superior ability breeds superior ambition.” Spock
• “Look at these three words written larger than all the rest, and with special pride never written before or since — tall words, proudly saying, “We the people” … these words and the words that follow … must apply to everyone or they mean nothing.” Captain James T. Kirk
• “A lie is a very poor way to say hello.” Edith Keeler
• “To boldly go where no man has gone before.” Captain James T. Kirk
• “It is necessary to have purpose.” Alice #1
• “Madness has no purpose. Or reason. But it may have a goal.” Spock
• “When the personality of a human is involved, exact predictions are hazardous.” Dr. McCoy
• “If I can have honesty, it’s easier to overlook mistakes.” Captain James T. Kirk
• “A father doesn’t destroy his children.” Lt. Carolyn Palamas
• “Our species can only survive if we have obstacles to overcome. You remove those obstacles. Without them to strengthen us, we will weaken and die.” Captain James T. Kirk
• “Behind every great man, there is a woman — urging him on.” Harry Mudd
• “Another dream that failed. There’s nothing sadder.” Captain James T. Kirk
• “We’re a most promising species, Mr. Spock, as predators go. Did you know that? I frequently have my doubts. I don’t. Not any more. And maybe in a thousand years or so, we’ll be able to prove it.” Captain James T. Kirk
• “One man cannot summon the future. But one man can change the present!” Alternate Mr. Spock
• “Curious, how often you humans manage to obtain that which you do not want.” Spock
• “We prefer to help ourselves. We make mistakes, but we’re human — and maybe that’s the word that best explains us.” Captain James T. Kirk
• “Now, I don’t pretend to tell you how to find happiness and love, when every day is a struggle to survive. But I do insist that you do survive, because the days and the years ahead are worth living for!” Edith Keeler
• “Leave bigotry in your quarters; there’s no room for it on the bridge.” Captain James T. Kirk
• “The release of emotion is what keeps us healthy. Emotionally healthy.” “That may be, Doctor. However, I have noted that the healthy release of emotion is frequently unhealthy for those closest to you.” Dr. McCoy and Spock
• “How we deal with death is at least as important as how we deal with life.” Captain James T. Kirk
• “Insults are effective only where emotion is present.” Spock
• “Too much of anything, even love, isn’t necessarily a good thing.” Captain James T. Kirk

Related: Ron Swanson Quotes

These quotes from Star Trek offer encouragement and inspiration. And if you are a huge Star Trek fan they will bring you back to an episode of the TV show or a specific Star Trek Movie. In either case, they will bring a smile to your face. They help us remember that, regardless of the place, time, or situation we find ourselves in, living well is important. Yes, we are complex. But then, we are human.

Related: The Best Spock Quotes  and Ready Player One Quotes

I’m Alice Judy and AnQuotes is a fun hobby for me. We know that everyone loves a great quote and our mission here is simple – to be the best and most interesting quote site in the world! If you have quotes you would like us to cover, please contact us.

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70 Star Trek Quotes on Exploring Wonders of the Universe

Let these Star Trek quotes show you how friendship, logic, and fun are no different, no matter where you are!

Star Trek is a sci-fi series created by Gene Roddenberry in the 1970s. It became a pop culture phenomenon that expanded through different forms of media. It currently has countless movie adaptations and sequels that fans keep watching repeatedly.

Like the Vulcans, humans can also reach their full potential by training the mind to reason. This method is one of the universe’s secrets that Star Trek has vowed to teach its viewers. 

As the series ventures into conflict and wars, it teaches us that the heart and mind are essential in achieving growth. No doubt, there are countless lessons to be learned from this cult favorite. So, hop on the ride and explore the fantastic world of Star Trek! 

Check out the complete list below.

And make sure to read these Spock quotes and Captain Kirk quotes .

Best Star Trek Quotes

1. “To all mankind: May we never find space so vast, planets so cold, heart and mind so empty, that we cannot fill them with love and warmth.” – Garth of Izar

2. “Insufficient facts always invite danger.” – Spock 

3. “We prefer to help ourselves. We make mistakes, but we’re human—and maybe that’s the word that best explains us.” – James T. Kirk

4. “Logic is the beginning of wisdom, not the end.” – Spock 

5. “You know the greatest danger facing us is ourselves and irrational fear of the unknown. There is no such thing as the unknown. Only things temporarily hidden, temporarily not understood.” – James T. Kirk

6. “Change is the essential process of all existence.” – Spock 

7. “If we’re going to be damned, let’s be damned for what we really are.” – Jean-Luc Picard

8. “I have been told that patience is sometimes a more effective weapon than the sword.” – Worf

Famous Star Trek Quotes

9. “Live long and prosper!” – Spock 

10. “Leave bigotry in your quarters; there’s no room for it on the bridge.” – James T. Kirk

11. “A species that enslave other beings is hardly superior, mentally or otherwise.” – James T. Kirk

12. “With the first link, the chain is forged. The first speech censored, the first thought forbidden, the first freedom denied, chains us all irrevocably.” – Jean-Luc Picard

13. “The prejudices people feel about each other disappear when they get to know each other.” – James T. Kirk

Motivational Star Trek Quotes to Inspire You

14. “One man cannot summon the future. But one man can change the present!” – Spock

15. “The only person you’re truly competing against is yourself.” – Jean-Luc Picard

16. “There is a way out of every box, a solution to every puzzle; it’s just a matter of finding it.” – Jean-Luc Picard 

17. “Our species can only survive if we have obstacles to overcome. You remove those obstacles. Without them to strengthen us, we will weaken and die.” – James T. Kirk

18. “Pain is a thing of the mind. The mind can be controlled.” – Spock

Also read: Inspirational Quotes , Quotes to Live By

Encouraging Star Trek Quotes for Aspiring Leaders

19. “What makes one man an exceptional leader? We see indications that it’s his negative side that makes him strong, that his evil side, controlled and disciplined, is vital to his strength. Your negative side is removed from you, the power of command begins to elude you.” – Spock

20. “I realize that command does have its fascination, even under circumstances such as these, but I neither enjoy the idea of command nor am I frightened of it. It simply exists, and I will do whatever logically needs to be done.” – Spock

21. “When governments murder those who speak the truth, it is time to get new governments.” – Diane Duane

Also read: Encouraging Quotes

Star Trek Quotes to Help You Live In the Now

22. “Live now; make now always the most precious time. Now will never come again.” – Jean-Luc Picard

23. “Now, I don’t pretend to tell you how to find happiness and love when everyday’s a struggle to survive. But I do insist that you do survive because the days and the years ahead are worth living for!” – Edith Keeler

24. “To survive is not enough. To simply exist—is not enough”’ – Roga Danar

Star Trek Quotes for Some Guidance in Life

25. “Loss of life is to be mourned, but only if the life was wasted.” – Spock

26. “It is possible to commit no errors and still lose. That is not a weakness. That is life.” – Jean-Luc Picard

27. “Your will to survive, your love of life, your passion to know—everything that is truest and best in all species of beings has been revealed to you. Those are the qualities that make a civilization worthy to survive.” – Vian

28. “A man either lives life as it happens to him, meets it head-on and licks it, or he turns his back on it and starts to wither away.” – Dr. Phillip Boyce

29. “When honor dies—when trust is a useless thing—what use is life?” – Spock

Short Star Trek Quotes That Are Remarkably Wise

30. “Sometimes a feeling is all we humans have to go on.” – James T. Kirk

31. “A lie is a very poor way to say hello.” – Edith Keeler

32. “Confidence is faith in oneself. It can’t easily be given by another.” – Deanna Troi

33. “Insults are effective only where emotion is present.” – Spock

34. “A library serves no purpose unless someone is using it.” – Atoz

Insightful Star Trek Quotes to Ponder On

35. “You can use logic to justify almost anything. That’s its power. And its flaw.” – Kathryn Janeway

36. “Flair is what marks the difference between artistry and mere competence.” – William T. Riker

37. “Respect is earned, not bestowed.” – Deanna Troi

38. “I see no logic in wanting to worship a deity who demands you live in perpetual fear.” – Spock

39. “Well, I know this much: We can’t avoid the future.” – William T. Riker

Star Trek Quotes That Zoom in on Humanity

40. “Humans do have an amazing capacity for believing what they choose—and excluding that which is painful.” – Spock

41. “To be human is to be complex. You can’t avoid a little ugliness from within and from without.” – James T. Kirk

42. “When the personality of a human is involved, exact predictions are hazardous.” – Leonard McCoy

43. “Curious, how often you humans manage to obtain that which you do not want.” – Spock 

44. “That may be the most important thing to understand about humans. It is the unknown that defines our existence. We are constantly searching, not just for answers to our questions, but for new questions. We are explorers. We explore our lives day by day, and we explore the galaxy, trying to expand the boundaries of our knowledge. And that is why I am here. Not to conquer you with weapons or with ideas. But to coexist and learn.” – Benjamin Sisko

Profound Star Trek Quotes to Unravel the Nature of Man

45. “Perhaps man wasn’t meant for paradise. Maybe he was meant to claw, to scratch all the way.” – James T. Kirk

46. “They used to say that if man were meant to fly, he’d have wings. But he did fly. He discovered he had to.” – James T. Kirk

47. “In critical moments, men sometimes see exactly what they wish to see.” – Spock

Star Trek Quotes That Will Change the Way You Perceive Freedom

48. “Without freedom of choice, there is no creativity.” – James T. Kirk

49. “It’s time you learned that freedom is never a gift. It has to be earned.” – James T. Kirk

50. “Human beings do not survive on bread alone but on the nourishments of liberty. For what indeed is a man without freedom—naught but a mechanism, trapped in the cogwheels of eternity.” – Harry Mudd

Star Trek Quotes That Explore the Idea of God

51. “Sharing an orbit with God is no small experience.” – Deanna Troi

52. “What Hamlet said with irony I say with conviction: ‘What a piece of work is man! How noble in reason, how infinite in faculties, in form and moving how express and admirable, in action how like an angel, in apprehension how like a god!'” – Jean-Luc Picard

53. “What does God need with a starship?” – James T. Kirk

Star Trek Quotes to Show You How Evil Works

54. “Without followers, evil cannot spread.” – Spock 

55. “Evil does seem to maintain power by suppressing the truth.” – Spock 

56. “Violence—in reality—is quite different from theory.” – Spock 

57. “Madness has no purpose. Or reason. But it may have a goal.” – Spock 

58. “When there is no emotion, there is no motive for violence.” – Spock 

Star Trek Quotes That Tackle Death 

59. “This is why one must be careful with life. Death is the most hateful thing. Don’t allow the destruction of what you can never restore.” – Diane Duane

60. “You find it easier to understand the death of one than the death of a million.” – Spock

61. “I haven’t faced death. I’ve cheated death. I’ve tricked my way out of death and patted myself on the back for my ingenuity; I know nothing.” – James T. Kirk

Funny Star Trek Quotes

62. “Sir, you have a many-legged beast crawling up your shoulder.” – Spock

63. “Could you please continue the petty bickering? I find it most intriguing.” – Data

64. “If I were human, I believe my response would be ‘Go to Hell.’—if I were human.” – Spock

65. “I have never understood the female capacity to avoid a direct answer to any question.” – Spock

66. “Emotions are alien to me. I’m a scientist.” – Spock

More Star Trek Quotes to Emphasize the Importance of Technology

67. “Computers make excellent and efficient servants, but I have no wish to serve under them.” – Spock

68. “Compassion: That’s the one thing no machine ever had. Maybe it’s the one thing that keeps men ahead of them.” – Leonard McCoy

69. “I speak of rights! A machine has none; a man must. If you do not grant him that right, you have brought us down to the level of the machine; indeed, you have elevated that machine above us!” – Samuel T. Cogley

70. “Improve a mechanical device, and you may double productivity. But improve man, you gain a thousandfold.” – Khan Noonien Singh

Did These Quotes Open Your Eyes to the World?

Venturing out into the unknown is not an easy feat. But, it is through this curiosity that we can grow and develop as individuals.

This is one of the main lessons that Star Trek wants to impart to its viewers. Life is not limited to what you can see, hear, and touch. Most of the time, there are countless amazing things that we are yet to experience.

As they went on their voyage, they learned many things about the world, their teammates, and themselves. In the same way, if we explore beyond our comfort zones, we’ll be able to open our eyes to the different realities that people go through every day.

These realities will then lead us to make choices that can impact ourselves and the world. It’s difficult, but thanks to Star Trek, we’re made aware that every decision should be made with logic and emotion. Listen to both your heart and your mind, find a balance, and we’re sure you’ll make the best choice possible.

No doubt, Star Trek is a show that entertains and shares pearls of wisdom we can never get from the usual shows. So, we hope that you were able to learn a thing or two through this collection. Feel free to reread the list and find more new lessons relevant to you!

Are you a fan of Star Trek? Are there any other quotes you’d like us to add? Comment below.

• 50 Captain Kirk Quotes on Hope and Humanity
• 70 Spock Quotes on Logic and Humanity
• 100 Patrick Star Quotes on Friendship & Common Sense

Karen Danao

Hi, I’m Karen , a content curator and writer for Quote Ambition; I’m also a marketing and advertising professional. Beyond the keyboard and the screen, I’m someone who’s out to enjoy every bit that life has to offer!

Poetry, philosophy, history, and movies are all topics I love writing about! However, my true passion is in traveling, photography, and finding common ground to which everyone from different cultures can relate.

With the many places I’ve been to, I found that love, inspiration, and happiness are some things that bring people together. No matter how different we are on the outside, I’m a true believer that our emotions don’t lie; if you dig deep into our psyche, we’re all the same inside.

This belief was further amplified when I joined Quote Ambition. Through the quotes I’ve read, collected, organized, and written about, I found that humans are resilient, creative, and compassionate.

We take from each others’ hearts and courage, and it’s through our individual experiences that we learn how to rise above our challenges and pain. In so many ways, Quote Ambition is a platform that allows people from all over the world to gain the inspiration they need anytime, anywhere!

You can find me on MuckRack and LinkedIn .

• ABBREVIATIONS
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• CALCULATORS
• CONVERSIONS
• DEFINITIONS

Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan

James T. Kirk: [eulogizing Spock] We are assembled here today to pay final respects to our honored dead. And yet it should be noted, in the midst of our sorrow, this death takes place in the shadow of new life, the sunrise of a new world; a world that our beloved comrade gave his life to protect and nourish. 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 . . . [voice breaks] human.

[Captain Terrell meets Khan and his followers]

Khan: Uh, Captain! Captain. Save your strength, Captain. These people had sworn to live and die at my command two hundred years before you were born! Do you mean he [refers to Chekov] never told you the tale? To amuse your Captain, no? Never told you how the Enterprise picked up the Botany Bay, lost in space from the year 1996 with myself and the ship's company in cryogenic freeze?

Capt. Terrell: I've never even met Admiral Kirk!

Khan: 'Admiral?' 'Admiral!' 'Admiral'... Never told you how Admiral Kirk sent 70 of us into exile in this barren sandheap, with only the contents of these cargo bays to sustain us.

Chekov: [furious] You lie! On Ceti Alpha V there was life! A fair chance --

Khan: [shouts] THIS IS CETI ALPHA V!!! [walks back to Chekov and calms voice] Ceti Alpha VI exploded six months after we were left here. The shock shifted the orbit of this planet, and everything was laid waste. Admiral Kirk never bothered to check on our progress! It was only the fact of my genetically-engineered intellect that allowed us to survive. On Earth . . . (grins wistfully). . . two hundred years ago . . . (sighs nostalgically). . . I was a prince . . . with power over millions.

Chekov: [angrily] Captain Kirk was your host. You repaid his hospitality by trying to steal his ship and murder him!!

[after Reliant's prefix code has been received]

Spock: Reliant's prefix number is one-six-three-zero-nine.

Lt. Saavik: I don't understand.

Kirk: You have to learn why things work on a starship.

Spock: Each starship has its own unique combination code.

Kirk: To prevent an enemy from doing what we're attempting. Using our console to order Reliant to lower her shields.

Spock: Assuming he hasn't changed the combination. He is quite intelligent.

[James Kirk has just seen Clark Terrell commit suicide and Pavel Andreievich Chekov collapse in agony.]

Kirk: Khan, you bloodsucker! You're gonna have to do your own dirty work now! Do you hear me? Do you?

Khan Noonien Singh: Kirk! You're still alive, my old friend!

Kirk: Still --"old friend!" You've managed to kill just about everyone else, but like a poor marksman, you keep missing the target!

Khan: Perhaps I no longer need to try, Admiral. [beams up Genesis components]

Kirk: Khan . . . Khan, you've got Genesis, but you don't have me! You were going to kill me, Khan; you're going to have to come down here! You're going to have to come down here!

Khan: I've done far worse than kill you. I've hurt you. And I wish to go on . . . hurting you. I shall leave you as you left me. As you left her. Marooned for all eternity in the center of a dead planet . . . buried alive . . . [voice drops to a menacing whisper] . . . buried alive.

Kirk: [exploding with rage, able to stand no more] KHHHHAAAAAAAAN!!!

Lt Saavik: [to Kirk] On the test, sir. Will you tell me what you did? I would really like to know.

Dr Leonard McCoy: Lieutenant, you are looking at the only Star Fleet cadet who ever beat the "No-Win" scenario.

Saavik: How?

James Kirk: I reprogrammed the simulation so that it was possible to save the ship.

Saavik: What?!

David: [chuckles] He cheated!

Kirk: Changed the conditions of the test . . . got a commendation for original thinking . . . I don't like to lose.

Saavik: Then you've never faced that situation . . . faced death.

Kirk: I don't believe in a "no-win" scenario. [pulls out his communicator] Kirk to Spock.

Spock: [on communicator] Spock here, Admiral.

Kirk: Captain Spock, it's two hours. Are you ready?

Spock: [on communicator] Right on schedule, Admiral. Just give us your co-ordinates and we'll beam you aboard.

Kirk: All right. [to a completely dumbfounded Saavik] I don't like to lose. [bites an apple]

Saavik: [still arguing WHILE beaming aboard the Enterprise] But the damage report! We were immobilized! Captain Spock said it would be two days!

Kirk: Come, come, Lieutenant. You of all people go by the book!

Saavik: By the book?

Kirk: By the book! Regulation Forty-Six A: "If transmissions are being monitored during battle --"

Saavik: : [astonished] "-- no uncoded messages on an open channel!" [looking at Spock] You lied!

Spock: I exaggerated.

Kirk: Hours instead of days; now we have minutes instead of hours!

Joachim: [not just as subordinate to superior but as son to father as well] We're all with you, sir . . . but consider this. We are free. We have a ship, and the means to go where we will. We have escaped permanent exile on Ceti Alpha V. You have proven your superior intellect, and defeated the plans of Admiral Kirk. You do not need to defeat him again.

Khan Noonien Singh: He tasks me. He tasks me, and I shall have him. I'll chase him round the Moons of Nibia and round the Antares Maelstrom and round Perdition's flames before I give him up! [No one responds.] Prepare to alter course.

[Kirk hails Khan]

Kirk: This is Admiral Kirk. We tried it once your way, Khan -- are you game for a rematch? [Khan sits there silently shocked.] Khan . . . [mockingly]. . . I'm laughing at the "superior intellect." [voice dissolves into an inaudible chuckle]

Khan Noonien Singh: [barely able to restrain his passionate anger] Full impulse power.

Joachim: NO!! You have Genesis! You can have whatever --

'Khan: [grabs Joachim in anger]FULL POWER, [shoves him aside] DAMN YOU!

Leonard McCoy: Are you out of your Vulcan mind? No human can tolerate the radiation that's in there!

Spock: As you are so fond of observing, Doctor, I am not human.

McCoy: [grabs Spock by the shoulder] You're not going in there!

Spock: Perhaps you're right. What is Mr. Scott's condition?

McCoy: Well, I don't think he's --

Spock: [nerve pinches McCoy] Sorry, Doctor, but I have no time to discuss this logically. [grabs Scotty's gloves and mind melds with McCoy] Remember.

[seeing Spock lying immobilized in the radiation-filled chamber, Kirk runs towards it]

McCoy: NO!! You'll flood the whole compartment!

Kirk: He'll die . . .

Scott: Sir! He's dead already.

McCoy: [stricken] It's too late.

Kirk: Spock!

Spock: [climbs slowly to his feet and walks over to Kirk] Ship. . . out of danger?

Spock: Don't grieve, Admiral. It's logical. The needs of the many outweigh . . .

Kirk: -- the needs of the few . . .

Spock: -- or the one. I never took the Kobayashi Maru test, until now. What do you think of my solution? [He kneels.] I have been . . . and always shall be . . . your friend. [He places his hand on the chamber glass, and his voice is a whispered broken husk.] Live long and prosper!

Kirk: [places his hand against the glass as Spock slumps and dies] No. . . .

David: Lieutenant Saavik was right: You never have faced death.

Kirk: No, not like this. I haven't faced death. I've cheated death. I've tricked my way out of death and -- patted myself on the back for my ingenuity. I know nothing . . . [But he cannot bring himself to complete his complaint, "I know nothing of death."]

David: You knew enough to tell Saavik that how we face death is at least as important as how we face life.

Kirk: Just words.

David: But good words! That's where ideas begin. Maybe you should listen to them. [hesitant] I was wrong about you . . . and I'm sorry.

Kirk: Is that what you came here to say?

David: Mainly. And also that I'm proud . . . very proud . . . to be your son.

James Kirk: This is Admiral Kirk. We tried it once your way, Khan, are you game for a rematch? Khan, I'm laughing at the "superior intellect."

Khan Noonien Singh: Full impulse power!

Joachim: No, sir! You have Genesis! You can have whatever...

Khan: [grabs Joachim in anger] FULL POWER! [shoves him aside] DAMN YOU!

Lenoard McCoy: Are you out of your Vulcan mind? No human can tolerate the radiation that's in there!

Spock: As you are so fond of observing, Doctor, I am not human!

James T. Kirk: [shocked at the sight of a familiar face] Khan.

Khan: You still remember, Admiral. I cannot help but be touched. I, of course, remember you.

Kirk: What is the meaning of this attack? And where's the crew of the Reliant?

Khan: Surely I have made my meaning plain. I mean to avenge myself upon you, Admiral. I deprived your ship of power and when I swing around, I mean to deprive you of your life. But I wanted you to know first who it was who had beaten you.

[Montgomery Scott has just seen Peter Preston die in front of Admiral Kirk and Doctor McCoy]

Montgomery Scott: Why? Why?!

Kirk: [referring to Khan's motive] He wants to kill me for passing sentence on him fifteen years ago. And...he doesn't care who stands between him and his vengeance.

David Marcus: Every time we have dealings with Starfleet, I get nervous. We are dealing with something that... could be perverted into a dreadful weapon. Remember that overgrown Boy Scout you used to hang around with? That's exactly the kind of man...

Carol Marcus: Listen, kiddo, Jim Kirk was many things, but he was never a Boy Scout!

McCoy: Go? Where are we going?"

Kirk: Where they went.

McCoy: Suppose they went nowhere?

Kirk: Then this'll be your big chance to get away from it all.

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10 spock quotes to remember leonard nimoy.

"Live long and prosper" and "the needs of the many" are just a few of the actor's finest lines.

By THR Staff

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Kirk loses his son but regains his best friend in Star Trek III: The Search for Spock . After being reborn, advancing to middle age and undergoing a Vulcan ceremony to retrieve his aura, Spock meets Kirk again, but doesn’t remember him. He asks why the admiral would risk the lives of his crew to save him, and Kirk turns Spock’s famous logic on its head: “The needs of the one outweigh the needs of the many.” There’s a pause, and Spock begins reciting lines from the end of Wrath of Khan before saying “Your name is Jim.” Cue one of the most endearing Trek moments ever as the rest of the crew runs to embrace Spock.

Leonard Nimoy died at 83 Friday , leaving behind a body of work spanning decades.

For nearly 50 years, Star Trek ’s Spock has been the most prominent philosopher in movies and television, mixing the logical mind of Sherlock Holmes and the inspirational messages of ancient proverbs.

In memory of Nimoy, let’s take a look back at 10 of Spock’s finest quotes.

10. “May I say that I have not thoroughly enjoyed serving with humans? I find their illogic and foolish emotions a constant irritant.” – Star Trek , season 3, episode 7 (“Day of the Dove,” 1968)

See more Remembering Leonard Nimoy’s Career (Photos)

9. “Computers make excellent and efficient servants, but I have no wish to serve under them.” – Star Trek , season 2, episode 24 (“The Ultimate Computer,” 1968)

8. “Insufficient facts always invite danger.” – Star Trek , season 1, episode 24 (“Space Seed,” 1968)

7. “In critical moments, men sometimes see exactly what they wish to see.” – Star Trek , season 3, episode 9 (“The Tholian Web,” 1968)

6. “After a time, you may find that having is not so pleasing a thing after all as wanting. It is not logical, but is often true.” – Star Trek , season 2, episode 1 (“Amok Time,” 1968)

5. “Without followers, evil cannot spread.” – Star Trek , season 3, episode 5, (“And the Children Shall Lead,” 1968)

4. “When you eliminate the impossible, whatever remains, however improbable, must be the truth.” – Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country , 1991

3. “I could not deprive you of the revelation of all that you could accomplish together, of a friendship that will define you both in ways you cannot yet realize.” – Star Trek , 2009

Nimoy’s Spock spoke these words to a younger version of himself ( Zachary Quinto ), explaining why he asked young Kirk ( Chris Pine ) not to reveal his existence. It is among the most poignant summaries of the Kirk-Spock relationship in Trek lore.

2. “Live long and prosper.” – First spoken in Star Trek , season 2, episode 1 (“Amok Time,” 1968)

In the interview above, Nimoy revealed his Jewish heritage influenced the famous Vulcan benediction.

1. “The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few.” – Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan , 1982

Spock shared this philosophy with Kirk earlier in the film, and later used it to explain why he sacrificed his own life to save the Enterprise. The line is possibly the most famous in Trek history.

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Jean-Luc Picard

Jean-Luc Picard (13 July 2305–) is a character in the Star Trek fictional universe , the captain of the USS Enterprise -D and the Enterprise -E . He was played by British actor Patrick Stewart in the television series Star Trek: The Next Generation , the subsequent films and the streaming television series Star Trek: Picard .

• 1.1 Star Trek: The Next Generation
• 1.2 Star Trek: Picard
• 2 Quotes about Picard
• 3 External links

Quotes [ edit ]

• Catchphrase first used in " Encounter At Farpoint " (28 September 1987) by Gene Roddenberry
• Star Trek Generations (1994) story by Brannon Braga , Ronald D. Moore and Rick Berman
• Star Trek Generations (1994) story by Brannon Braga , Ronald D. Moore and Rick Berman . See also: The beginning of Youtube Video " Picard Words of Wisdom: Cherish Every Moment. Now Will Never Come Again " (09.12.2019) by user "Major Grin".
• Star Trek: First Contact (1996) story by Brannon Braga , Ronald D. Moore and Rick Berman
• Derivative of the statement "Reports of my death are greatly exaggerated" attributed to Mark Twain , paraphrasing his remark: "The report of my death was an exaggeration."
• Jean-Luc Picard , Star Trek: Nemesis (2002) story by John Logan , Rick Berman and Brent Spiner ; On Equality and Peace
• Star Trek: Nemesis (2002) story by John Logan , Rick Berman and Brent Spiner ; On Equality and Peace
• Star Trek: Nemesis (2002) story by John Logan , Rick Berman and Brent Spiner
• Star Trek Picard: New York Comic-Con Trailer . Source: Patrick Stewart (5 October 2019): Star Trek Picard: New York Comic-Con Trailer | #StarTrekPicard. January 23, 2020. Star Trek on CBS All Access Amazon Prime Video UK CTV Sci-Fi Channel. Facebook page of Patrick Stewart.
• Star Trek Picard: New York Comic-Con Trailer . Source: Patrick Stewart (5. October 2019): Star Trek Picard: New York Comic-Con Trailer | #StarTrekPicard. January 23, 2020. Star Trek on CBS All Access Amazon Prime Video UK CTV Sci-Fi Channel. Facebook page of Patrick Stewart.

Star Trek: The Next Generation [ edit ]

• " Encounter At Farpoint " (28 September 1987) by Gene Roddenberry
• " The Last Outpost " (19 October 1987) Story by Richard Krzmeien and Teleplay by  Herbert Wright
• " Justice " (9 November 1987) by Worley Thorne and Ralph Wills
• " The Battle " (16 November 1987) by Larry Forrester
• " When the Bough Breaks " (15 February 1988) by Hannah Louise Shearer; On persistence
• " Coming of Age " (14 March 1988) by Sandy Fries
• " Symbiosis " (18 April 1988) by Robert Lewin. See also: The middle of Youtube Video " Star Trek The Next Generation - The Prime Directive by Captain Jean-Luc Picard, Symbiosis S01E22 " (27.04.2023) by user "Adventures in Rhythm".
• " Skin of Evil " (25 April 1988) by Joseph Stefano
• " Where Silence Has Lease " (28 November 1988) by Jack B. Sowards
• " The Schizoid Man " (23 January 1989) by Richard Manning and Hans Beimler
• " The Measure of a Man " (13 February 1989) by Melinda M. Snodgrass
• Wesley : It's the Yamato , Captain. I can't stop thinking about her. All those people dead . I don't know how you and Commander Riker and Geordi , how you handle it so easily .
• "Contagion" , (March 18, 1989) written by Steve Gerber and Beth Woods
• " Contagion " (20 March 1989) by Steve Gerber and Beth Woods
• This line echoes a line from "Star Trek: TOS", episode "The Paradise Syndrome", in which Spock says "Time, Dr. McCoy, is the one thing we do not have in abundance." It has become a catch-phrase for Trekkies.
• " Pen Pals " (1 May 1989) by Hannah Louise Shearer
• " Q Who " (8 May 1989) by Maurice Hurley
• " Samaritan Snare " (15 May 1989) by Robert L. McCullough
• " Samaritan Snare " (15 May 1989) by Robert L. McCullough. See also: The beginning of Youtube Video " Captain Picard: No greater challenge than the study of philosophy " (17.09.2020) by user "Jason Winning".
• " Peak Performance " (10 July 1989) by David Kemper. See also: The beginning of Youtube Video " Picard Star Trek the Next Generation: It is possible to commit no mistakes and still lose " (17.09.2020) by user "Darc Vigilante". See also: The beginning of Youtube Video " Data sulking like Achilles in his tent. " (09.10.2013) by user "SkaIathrax".
• " The Ensigns of Command " (2 October 1989) by Melinda M. Snodgrass. See also: The middle of Youtube Video " TNG Picard owns the Sheliak (Ensigns of Command) " (08.02.2012) by user "trekclip123". Context: Picard exploits a loophole in the treaty with the Sheliak and offers the Sheliak a choice: either wait six months for third-party arbitrators, or give Picard three weeks to evacuate the colony. Outmaneuvered, the Sheliak agree to the three weeks.
• " The Survivors " (9 October 1989) by Michael Wagner
• " The Defector " (1 January 1990) by Ronald D. Moore. See also: Middle of Youtube Video " The Enterprise -D Crossed The Neutral Zone " (28.03.2018) by user "April 5, 2063".
• " The High Ground " (29 January 1990) by Melinda M. Snodgrass
• " The Hunted " (8 January 1990) by Robin Bernheim
• " Tin Man " (23 March 1990) by Dennis Putman Bailey and David Bischoff
• Statement to the entire crew in the alternate timeline towards the end of " Yesterday's Enterprise " (19 February 1990) story by Trent Christopher Ganino, Eric A. Stillwell Ira Steven Behr , Richard Manning , Hans Beimler , Ronald D. Moore . See also: Beginning of Youtube Video " History Never Forgets the Name Enterprise | Star Trek: The Next Generation - Yesterday's Enterprise " (11.06.2017) by user "Star Trek Clips".
• " The Offspring ", (12 March 1990) by René Echevarria
• " Sins of the Father " (19 March 1990) by Drew Deighan
• " Allegiance " (26 March 1990) by Richard Manning and Hans Beimler
• Picard : It's something of a tradition , Guinan - Captain touring the ship before a battle .
• " The Best of Both Worlds " (18 June 1990) by Michael Piller
• The Borg : Captain Jean-Luc Picard. You lead the strongest ship of the Federation Starfleet . You speak for your people .
• “ The Best of Both Worlds ”, (September 24, 1990), by Michael Piller
• Jean-Luc Picard : They took everything I was. They used me to kill and to destroy and I couldn't stop them. I should have been able to stop them. I tried. I tried so hard. But I wasn't strong enough. I wasn't good enough! I should have been able to stop them. I should... I should...
• “ Family ", (October 1, 1990), by Ronald D. Moore
• " First Contact " (29 April 1991) with story by Marc Soctt Zicree and teleplay by Dennis Bailey & David Bischoff and Joe Menosky & Ronald D. Moore and Michael Piller. See also: End of Youtube Video " Captain Picard demonstrates diplomacy. " (06.10.2013) by user "SkaIathrax".
• " The Drumhead " (29 April 1991) by Jeri Taylor
• Jean-Luc Picard : We think we've come so far. Torture of heretics , burning of witches , is all ancient history . Then, before you can blink an eye , suddenly, it threatens to start all over again.
• " In Theory " (3 June 1991) by Joe Menosky and Ronald D. Moore
• " Darmok " (30 September 1991) by Joe Menosky and Phillip LaZebnik. See also: Beginning of Youtube Video " Beginning Scene From the Episode Darmok " (04.10.2021) by user "April 5, 2063".
• " Darmok " (30 September 1991) by Joe Menosky and Phillip LaZebnik
• " A Matter of Time " (30 September 1991) by Rick Berman .
• " The First Duty " (March 30, 1992) by Ronald D. Moore and Naren Shankar
• " The Inner Light " (1 June 1992) by Morgan Gendel and Peter Allan Fields . See also: The beginning of Youtube Video " Picard Words of Wisdom: Cherish Every Moment. Now Will Never Come Again " (09.12.2019) by user "Major Grin".
• " Chain of Command " (October 5, 1992) by Frank Abatemarco
• " Man of the People " (21 December 1992) by Frank Abatemarco
• " Tapestry " (15 February 1993) by Ronald D. Moore
• " Attached " (8 November 1993) by Nick Sagan
• " All Good Things... " (23 May 1994) by Brannon Braga and Ronald D. Moore

Star Trek: Picard [ edit ]

• Remembrance (January 23, 2020), written By Akiva Goldsman and James Duff ; story by Akiva Goldsman & Michael Chabon & Kirsten Beyer & Alex Kurtzman and James Duff
• The End Is the Beginning (February 6, 2020) by Michael Chabon and Akiva Goldsman
• Absolute Candor (February 13, 2020) by Michael Chabon
• Stardust City Rag (February 20, 2020) by Kirsten Beyer
• The Impossible Box (February 27, 2020) by Nick Zayas
• Nepenthe (March 5, 2020) by Samantha Humphrey and Michael Chabon
• Broken Pieces (March 12, 2020) by Samantha Humphrey and Michael Chabon
• Et En Arcadia Argo, Part 1 (March 19, 2020) by Michael Chabon & Ayelet Waldman & Akiva Goldsman
• Et En Arcadia Argo, Part 2 (March 26, 2020) by Michael Chabon & Akiva Goldsman
• The Star Gazer (March 3, 2022) by Akiva Goldsman & Terry Matalas
• Penance (March 3, 2022) by Akiva Goldsman & Terry Matalas and Christopher Monfette (Teleplay) as well as by Michael Chabon and Akiva Goldsman & Terry Matalas and Christopher Monfette (Story)
• Assimilation (March 17, 2022) by Kiley Rossetter & Christopher Monfette. See also: The middle of Youtube Video " Jurati Connecting To The Borg Queen | Star Trek Picard S02E03 " (19.03.2022) by user "Star Trek Friendly".
• Watcher (March 24, 2022) by Juliana James & Jane Maggs (Teleplay) as well as by Travis Fickett & Juliana James (Story)
• Two of One (April 7, 2022) by Cindy Appel & Jane Maggs
• Hide and Seek (April 28, 2022) by Matt Okumura & Chris Derrick
• Farewell (May 5, 2022) by Christopher Monfette and Akiva Goldsman
• No Win Scenario (March 9, 2023) by Terry Matalas & Sean Tretta
• The Bounty (March 23, 2023) by Christopher Monfette
• The Last Generation (April 20, 2023) by Terry Matalas

Quotes about Picard [ edit ]

• George Ankers, “50 years on, we need Star Trek’s optimism more than ever” , Medium , (Jul 27, 2016)
• Dirk Baecker, in Inclusion/ Exclusiom (2002), p. 76
• Emergency Hologram (EMH) playbed by Santiago Cabrera in the Star Trek: Picard episode The End is the Beginning (February 6, 2020) written by Michael Chabon & Akiva Goldsman
• Michael Chabon, "Captain Picard is the hero we need, says Star Trek writer Michael Chabon" , by Richard Trenholm, CNET , (11/7/2018); as quoted in "Michael Chabon on Honoring Star Trek Canon and How Picard Is 'The Hero We Need Right Now'" , by Beth Elderkin, IO9 , (11/9/2018).
• Kevin Decker and Jason Eberl Star Trek and Philosophy: The Wrath of Kant (2008), p. 141
• Marc Dipaol, in War, Politics and Superheroes : Ethics and Propaganda in Comics and Film (2011), p. 30
• Miriam Francisco, “The optimism of ‘Star Trek’” , Michigan Daily , (September 16, 2019)
• Pallab Ghosh , in "Klingons on the Starship Bow" in New Scientist Vo. 117, issue 1605 (24 March 1988), p. 63
• Mark Jancovich and James Lyons, in Quality Popular Television : Cult TV, The Industry and Fans (2003), p. 111
• Sara Gwenllian-Jones and Roberta E. Pearson, in Cult Television (2004), p. 65
• Wess Roberts and Bill Ross in Make It So : Leadership Lessons from Star Trek, The Next Generation (1995), p. xi
• Manu Saadia, “The Enduring Lessons of “Star Trek”” , The New Yorker , (September 8, 2016).
• Spock playbed by Leonard Nimoy in the Star Trek: The Next Generation episode Unification Part 2 (November 11, 1994), story by by Rick Berman and Michael Piller, teleplay by Michael Piller. See also: Beginning of Youtube Video " Ambassador Spock and Lt. Commander Data Talk " (10.04.2019) by user "April 5, 2063".
• Rosemarie Garland Thomson, Freakery: cultural spectacles of the extraordinary body (1996), p. 334
• Gary Westfahl , in The Greenwood Encyclopedia of Science Fiction and Fantasy : Themes, Works, and Wonders (2005) Vol. 3, p. 1264
• Grace Lee Whitney , Jim Denney, and Leonard Nimoy in The Longest Trek: My Tour of the Galaxy (1998), p. 81
• Weird Al Yankovic , " White & Nerdy ", Straight Outta Lynwood (2006)

External links [ edit ]

• Biography of Jean-Luc Picard at the official Star Trek website
• Jean-Luc Picard at Memory Alpha (a Star Trek wiki )
• Michael Patrick (April 17, 2023): 50 Picard Quotes to 'Engage' Your Mind and Inspire You to Live Boldly, Bravely and Baldly. In: Parade (magazine) . Archived from the original on December 31, 20232.

• Fictional characters

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Star Trek: Best Captain Kirk Quotes, Ranked

Star Trek's Captain Kirk is an iconic character in television history who has delivered some truly quotable lines over the course of his adventures.

Being a captain can't be easy. There are hundreds of people counting on them to make the right decisions that will keep them alive. Being the captain of the U.S.S. Enterprise – the flagship of the United Federation of Planets – must come with even more stress. But fans of Captain James T. Kirk in Star Trek would rarely see that pressure get to him.

Along with his decisive thinking, strategic planning, and sense of humor, Captain Kirk often kept his ship and his crew alive with nothing more than his words. The boy from Iowa lived by the ideals of the future, using his beliefs not only to navigate the universe but to deal with the dangers he and the crew faced. With his confidence and words, Captain Kirk showed us all just how great humanity could be.

Updated on September 13, 2023 by Joshua M. Patton: William Shatner is the iconic originator of Captain James Tiberius Kirk, the first captain of the USS Enterprise that Star Trek fans fell in love with. However, in the nearly 60 years of history behind Gene Roddenberry's created universe, he's not the only actor to portray the character. With Chris Pine donning the signature gold shirt in the film trilogy set in "the Kelvin Timeline," and Paul Welsey taking on the role in Strange New Worlds, Kirk's wit and wisdom continues to expand.

RELATED: A Complete Guide to Scotty From Star Trek

20 “Hang On Tight And Survive. Everybody Does.”

[T]here are a million things in this universe you can have and a million things you can't have. It's no fun facing that, but that's the way things are.... Hang on tight and survive. Everybody does.

The first season episode "Charlie X" saw the Enterprise welcome a young man named Charlie aboard the ship who had spent years surviving alone. Charlie had been modified by aliens to survive their harsh planet, which gave him incredible abilities like telepathy that he used to force the crew into uncomfortable situations.

Charlie struggled with acclimating to his new way of life onboard the Enterprise where he didn't get everything he wanted, and despaired about going on with his life. Kirk was able to make him see that he could push through, surviving one day at a time like the rest of humanity.

19 "Either We're Going Down or They Are"

Attention crew of the Enterprise, this is James Kirk. Mr. Spock has resigned commission and advanced me to acting captain. I know you are all expecting to regroup with the fleet, but I'm ordering a pursuit course of the enemy ship to Earth. I want all departments at battle stations and ready in ten minutes. Either we're going down... or they are. Kirk out.

The mission of Starfleet is one of peaceful exploration and curiosity, but no matter which actor is playing Captain James T. Kirk, he's always read to fight when its necessary. In 2009's Star Trek when Earth is threatened by the time-traveling Romulan villain Nero, he takes command of the USS Enterprise to save the planet.

The version of Kirk in this film is much different than the one fans know, yet even after living a life of loss and aimlessness, once Kirk ended up where he belonged -- in the Captain's chair -- he became the man fans know and love. He will avoid a fight whenever he can, but if he can't? No one can stop him from saving the day.

18 "Don't Skip Good Hot Dogs"

My advice? Don't skip good hot dogs when you can get them.

Strange New Worlds Season 2 featured another time-travel romp, this time offering an alternate future version of James T. Kirk who wasn't part of Starfleet or the Federation, but rather the United Earth Fleet. His timeline was one of devastation and war. While La'an Noonien Singh, Khan's descendant , and the Enterprise Chief of Security, is trying to puzzle out their mission in the past, Kirk reminds her to take advantage of the good things that come her way.

17 “What Is a Man?"

What is a man but that lofty spirit, that sense of enterprise, that devotion for something that cannot be sensed, cannot be realized, but only dreamed, the highest reality?

The crew of the Enterprise was faced with a heavy decision when they encountered a planet full of androids that wanted to serve humanity by replacing their bodies with artificial ones and granting them eternal life in the second season's "I, Mudd."

However, Kirk was able to talk some of the curious members of his crew out of the decision by pondering exactly what it is that makes them all human – listing many of the reasons that humanity ventured into space in search of the unknown in the first place, which could never be replicated by the artificial androids.

RELATED: 15 Best Star Trek Games, Ranked According To Metacritic

16 “I Need My Pain!”

You know that pain and guilt can’t be taken away with the wave of a magic wand! They’re the things we carry with us, the things that make us who we are. If we lose them, we lose ourselves. I don’t want my pain taken away, I need my pain!

Star Trek V: The Final Frontier explored the ongoing Star Trek search for God that made a number of crew members question their faith and the surrounding reality, especially when members of the crew were "cured" of negative emotions like pain and guilt.

However, Kirk refused to undergo the same process as he felt that those feelings helped shape who we are and who we become, which ultimately allows humanity to make the right decisions. He was right, as the God-like being was later revealed to be an evil being who was trapped and manipulating others to facilitate his escape.

15 "The Prejudices People Feel..."

The prejudices people feel about each other disappear when they get to know each other.

Tasked with ensuring that the arranged marriage of the leaders of two warring planets takes place without interference, Captain Kirk and the crew of the Enterprise find themselves dealing with an angry bride, a nervous groom, and a group of Klingons who plan to sabotage the event.

Kirk's words come from a more mature and evolved version of mankind that has worked past its biases based on skin color, religion, or gender. He knows as all humans in Star Trek do, that the only way to move forward is to work together. To see the things we have in common and celebrate the things that make us different.

14 "Sometimes A Feeling Is All We Humans Have"

Sometimes a feeling is all we humans have to go on.

When the Enterprise finds itself caught up in a centuries-long planetary war where the casualties are decided by a computer program, Captain Kirk knows that the only way to bring about peace is to remind the people of the planet what war really is. By leaving the outcomes of battles to a computer, the people have done away with the lasting scars of war and come to accept the ritual deaths as something of a sacrifice that must be done.

Kirk risks everything by destroying the war computer, forcing the leaders of the world to decide if it is better to continue their war with actual destruction and devastation or if the time has come to talk peace. In his gut, Kirk knows they will make the right choice.

RELATED: The 25 Most Powerful Star Trek Species, Ranked

13 "His Was The Most... Human"

"We are assembled here today to pay final respects to our honored dead. And yet it should be noted that in the midst of our sorrow, this death takes place in the shadow of new life, the sunrise of a new world; a world that our beloved comrade gave his life to protect and nourish. 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."

In all fiction, there are few friendships as iconic as that of Captain Kirk and Mister Spock. It is impossible not to think of one when you think of the other. These two men, one an emotional human the other a rational Vulcan, will always be the greatest duo in Star Trek .

When Spock gave his life for the crew of the Enterprise in Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan , Kirk was left to write a eulogy not only for his Science Officer but his closest friend in all the universe. His words ensured that there wasn't a dry eye in the theater.

12 "Believe In Yourself"

You either believe in yourself, or you don’t.

A captain needs confidence, and that's something Kirk has in spades. He knows that if he doesn't believe in the mission, then his crew won't believe in it either, and if he doesn't believe in himself, they won't be comfortable following him.

Even more important is the knowledge that without believing in oneself, there is no hope for improvement. And if a person can not improve, then what is the purpose of existence? To Captain Kirk, there is no more important thing for a person to have than faith in themself.

RELATED: Star Trek Uses Shields and Deflector Screens Better Than Any Other Sci-Fi Property

11 "If Man Was Meant To Fly, He'd Have Wings..."

They used to say that if man was meant to fly, he’d have wings. But he did fly. He discovered he had to.

From the story of Icarus to the stories of superheroes today, mankind has always been inspired by the idea of flight. The idea of a man soaring through the skies seemed like an impossible task, but in less than 60 decades, humanity went from a 12-second 120-foot flight to sending the first man into space.

What Captain Kirk is saying here is that humanity has always stepped up to the challenge, and we always will. It won't be easy, and we'll fall down often, but in the end, we will succeed because we must.

10 "There's No Such Thing As The Unknown..."

There's no such thing as the unknown, only things temporarily hidden.

The unknown can be scary. The idea that just out of sight, hiding in the darkness is something that can hurt us is what most horror is built around, and for good reason. Be it the monster in the closet or the alien from Venus, we fear that which we do not know.

But if we think like Captain Kirk, the unknown isn't something to be frightened by. The unknown becomes something exciting to discover. The unknown is out there, just waiting to be found. Suddenly, that fear becomes a feeling of optimism.

9 "Genius Doesn’t Work On An Assembly Line Basis."

Genius doesn't work on an assembly line basis. Did Einstein, Kazanga, or Sitar of Vulcan produce new and revolutionary theories on a regular schedule? You can't simply say, today I will be brilliant.

When Captain Kirk and the crew are sent to evaluate a supercomputer that could make their jobs redundant, he quickly sees the flaw in the plan. A computer may be able to react faster than a person, but it can never invent or show discretion.

It can never create or devise a plan that isn't preprogrammed, leaving it open to failure by a lack of improvisation. As Kirk sees it, all great things are created by those who think beyond what is and see what may be. It is the living being who can do this and no computer, no matter how great, will be able to replicate that.

RELATED: Star Trek Fleet Command Celebrates 5 Years With an In-Game Special Event

8 "We're Human, And ... That Best Explains Us."

We prefer to help ourselves. We make mistakes, but we're human, and maybe that's the word that best explains us.

Star Trek captures the strength of the human race better than most other shows. As Kirk says, we make mistakes, but we don't just lay down and give up. We move forward even as we stumble, working to make things better. To make ourselves better, and in turn, make the world better.

Captain Kirk is no stranger to making mistakes, but he knows that each mistake must be learned from, and what was learned must be used to make improvements, all so new mistakes can be made, and new lessons learned.

7 "How We Deal With Life"

How we deal with death is at least as important as how we deal with life.

As the captain of the Enterprise, Kirk knows that he, and any other captain that is to follow him, will be forced to make life and death decisions on a regular basis. In his time, Kirk has seen more death than he would have preferred, and many of those deaths he holds himself responsible for. Still, Kirk knows that he can not let those deaths keep him from moving forward. He knows that if he and his crew were to give in, all those who died for them would have died in vain.

6 "That's What I Was Born Into"

Better to die saving lives... than to live with taking them. That's what I was born into.

This moment from Star Trek: Beyond was something of a full-circle moment for the Kelvin Timeline Captain Kirk. His father died saving his life and the lives of an entire starship crew. When facing off with Balthazar M. Edison, who was trying to destory a massive starbase, he truly became the kind of hero his father was.

Star Trek is about hope and optimism. The big-budget blockbuster needs of the 21st Century movies may have gotten in the way of that message, but in Star Trek: Beyond the audience finally gets to hear a Jim Kirk who sounds familiar.

5 "Sometimes You Can't Avoid a Fight"

Did it ever occur to you that sometimes you can't avoid a fight?

The Season 1 finale of Strange New Worlds was a time-travel adventure showcasing what would happen if Captain Pike stayed on the USS Enterprise. In trying to avoid a fight with the Romulan Star Empire, he ended up starting a devastating war.

This message from Kirk, played by Paul Wesley, shows that even the Prime Timeline version of the character knows when to seek peace and when to give villains the fight they are looking for. It's better to face an enemy than to leave them to harm others because one didn't.

RELATED: Why This Redshirt Was Fine and the Redshirt Myth Is a Lie

4 “I Don't Believe In The No-Win Scenario.”

I don't believe in the no-win scenario.... I don't like to lose.

One of the best movies in the long-running franchise, 1982's Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan introduced a number of oft-repeated quotes and inspired an altered take on the story in the modern reboot franchise. Kirk's ability to see every angle and find a way to win against all odds was best displayed by his quote about no-win scenarios, as well as the reveal that he was able to beat the training exercise known as the Kobayashi Maru – which was designed to be unbeatable in order to make cadets face their potential death in service to the Federation..

3 "You Can Let Death Win, Or You Can Fight Back"

Our job puts up against death more than is fair, and we may not like it, but we do have to face it. And right now, death is winning. It claimed your family. It claimed your friend. It convinced you to forget them because it is less painful than holding onto their memories. Now you can you let death win, or you can fight back. Hold onto them.

Another Season 2 episode of Strange New Worlds featured an adventure with James T. Kirk and Nyota Uhura , where the latter was experience visions and mental distress. He was the first person to believe what was happening to her was real.

When Uhura began to lose hope, because of the loss of her family a few years earlier, Kirk inspires her the way only the future captain could. Echoing Shatner's "I need my pain," line, he tells her that the memories of those we've lost are not burdens but blessings.

2 "Khaaaaaan!"

Khan, you have Genesis, but you don't have me! You were going to kill me, Khan, it was your sole purpose. You'll have to come down here to do it!

While it isn't the longest or most profound line that Captain Kirk ever delivered, his scream of rage and frustration in Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan is easily one of the character's most quoted and spoofed lines from Star Trek .

The line comes after Khan successfully takes the Genesis Device while also stranding Kirk and his crew inside a planetoid as revenge for Kirk doing the same to Khan and his crew. Kirk's protest is filled with such raw emotion that it quickly became one of the most memorable scenes from the Star Trek movie franchise and was even reimagined for the reboot trilogy.

1 "To Boldly Go"

This is the final cruise of the Starship Enterprise under my command. This ship and her history will shortly become the care of another crew. To them and their posterity will we commit our future. They will continue the voyages we have begun, and journey to all the undiscovered countries, boldly going where no man... where no one has gone before.

These words have been said by many a Star Trek captain, but Captain Kirk was the first. And while the exact words have changed over the years to be more inclusive, what Kirk said in the opening of every episode of Star Trek over fifty years ago still captures the hearts, minds, and imaginations of millions today.

The idea that humanity will one day travel among the stars, discovering new life and new civilizations, boldly going where no one has gone before is a concept that fills the world with the hope of a better tomorrow. The kind of tomorrow that Captain Kirk was a part of. The final time he said these words, in Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country he changed things around, ditching both the gendered language and the idea that the Enterprise crew was Starfleet's only explorers.

Star Trek (2009) quotes

Screen Rant

Star trek: voyager — janeway's 10 best quotes, ranked.

Captain Kathryn Janeway was a strong and resilient leader on Star Trek: Voyager, whose articulate words of wisdom always inspired her crew.

A highly accomplished Starfleet captain who became a maverick when her ship suddenly found itself in the Delta Quadrant, Captain Kathryn Janeway remains one of the most compelling characters in Star Trek canon thanks to her resilience, intelligence, and quick-thinking. As diplomatic as Captain Picard and as daring as Captain Kirk, she proved in Star Trek: Voyager   that a woman could sit in the chair, and not only run a tight ship but lead it on bold new adventures.

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When the crew found themselves on a 75-year journey home, she always steeled their reserves, often pitching in around the  USS Voyager  to render aid in any department. With her background in science, she was a leader uniquely qualified to problem-solve some of the ship's more complicated conundrums. Her crew came to her for advice and for courage, and her words of wisdom never steered them wrong.

"Now this is how I prefer the Borg. In pieces!"

When Janeway destroys a probe in Season 5, it leads her and the crew to a damaged Borg sphere, where they pilfer a transwarp coil. This is only possible thanks to Seven of Nine investigating her parents' research, which forces her to re-access the collective.

Voyager  got much more down and dirty with the Borg than other series because the ship had an ex-drone for a crew member. When Seven of Nine is back among the collective, Janeway mounts a rescue mission to face down the Borg Queen  — the first of many times — and save her. This is one of her more memorable lines along the way.

"Abandon ship? The answer's no. I'm not breaking up the family."

When faced with the relentless onslaught of Krenim temporal attacks, Captain Janeway is presented with one of the most difficult decisions of the voyage home. The species continuously alters their timeline, hoping to eventually remove them from history.

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Chakotay asks Janeway if she's prepared to abandon Voyager to save the crew, something she won't do despite the cost. The two-part episode called "Year of Hell" is on many a top 10 list of Star Trek episodes.

"It's never easy... but if we turn our backs on our principles we stop being human."

It was difficult for the crew of Voyager to maintain their principles stranded out in the Delta Quadrant, especially when they saw other Federation starships kidnapped by the caretaker resorting to pirate tactics to obtain resources. Janeway had to make decisions that made her unpopular to her crew, who felt she valued principles more than their lives.

Janeway believed that to engage in such nefarious methods was not only beneath the Voyager crew, but an indication of morality's decay. Still, she showed compassion for the crew of the USS Equinox , who did what they had to to prevent starvation.

"You can't just walk away from your responsibilities because you made a mistake."

While not a member of Starfleet, Neelix was an invaluable part of the Voyager crew , responsible for keeping up morale and preparing home-cooked meals without a replicator. His biggest task involved helping to navigate the ship in the Delta Quadrant, space he was intimately familiar with as a trader.

Eventually, the ship passed out of territory that Neelix was familiar with, causing him to have a personal crisis of usefulness. His fear of no longer having a purpose resulted in him doing some dubious deals with shady individuals to obtain a map. Captain Janeway was mad, not so much for what he did, but for how he used the mistake to try to abandon his responsibilities to his friends.

"There are three things to remember about being a starship captain: keep your shirt tucked in, go down with the ship, and never abandon a member of your crew."

The passage of time might have been difficult to track on  Voyager ,   considering the ship and crew had a 75-year journey to make in order to reach the Alpha Quadrant, but one of the more telltale ways was watching young Naomi Wildman grow up, the first child born during the mission home.

RELATED:  Star Trek: 10 Things You Didn't Know About Female Captain Kathryn Janeway

She received a lot of advice from the crew, especially Seven of Nine and Captain Janeway, the latter of whom reminded her the three definitive rules of being a starship captain.

"Space must have seemed a whole lot bigger back then. It's not surprising they had to bend the rules a little..."

"Space must have seemed a whole lot bigger back then. It's not surprising they had to bend the rules a little. They were a little slower to invoke the Prime Directive, and a little quicker to pull their phasers. Of course, the whole bunch of them would be booted out of Starfleet today. But I have to admit, I would have loved to ride shotgun at least once with a group of officers like that."

Every new Star Trek series is inevitably compared to the one that started it all,  Star Trek: The Original Series . Subsequent series have done their best to set their own course while also paying homage to its famous progenitor, as Voyager did in Season 3.

Tuvok's strange dreams about the  USS Excelsior  and his time under Captain Sulu alter his ability to perform his duties on Voyager, and Janeway has to get to the bottom of it by sharing his experiences. As it turns out, she had a great respect for Captain Kirk and his crew , even if she didn't agree with his methods.

"We're Starfleet officers. 'Weird' is part of the job."

Late in  Voyager 's   second season, Vidiian warships attack the ship, forcing it to enter a plasma field where it suffers power failures from multiple proton bursts and subspace turbulence. Through a space-time rift, the battered crew of Voyager sees another version of itself, and the two crews attempt to merge.

This line is uttered by a resilient Janeway to Harry Kim as she tries to find a way to leave the plasma field and save her crew from the organ-harvesting Vidiians , receiving help from the unlikeliest of places: a second Janeway.

"One voice can be stronger than a thousand voices."

Captain Janeway and Seven of Nine had a contentious relationship aboard Voyager at first, but the two strong-willed women eventually came to form a close bond that was built on solidarity and mutual respect. Janeway helped Seven realize that she didn't need the collective to have a purpose or a family.

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In Season 4, when Seven tried to escape back to the Borg, Janeway had to remind her that she was stronger as an individual and that she should use her uniqueness to help others.

"You can use logic to justify almost anything. That's its power and its flaw."

Having Maquis mixing with Starfleet officers aboard Voyager was never going to be easy, and when Captain Janeway is flummoxed about how to acquire a trajector from the Sikarians without sacrificing her principles, it's the Maquis members of the crew who broker the deal behind her back.

Janeway is furious with B'Elanna Torres and the others for going behind her back, but her disappointment is reserved for Tuvok, who claims responsibility for approving the subterfuge using Vulcan logic. Their relationship is strained after she delivers this memorable quote.

"You know as well as I do that fear only exists for one purpose... to be conquered."

One of Janeway's most famous lines comes from the encounter between Voyager and a race of beings who purposefully place themselves in suspended animation during an ice age. Unfortunately, an aggressive program called the Clown locks them in.

The Clown may have thrived on fear, but he had never encountered Captain Janeway. She was able to deftly maneuver his terrifying world and ultimately defeat him, freeing the Kohl.

NEXT: Star Trek TNG: Captain Picard's 10 Most Heroic Quotes

Death Wish (episode)

• View history
• 1.2 Act One
• 1.3 Act Two
• 1.4 Act Three
• 1.5 Act Four
• 1.6 Act Five
• 2 Memorable quotes
• 3.1 Story and script
• 3.2 Cast and characters
• 3.3 Production
• 3.4 Effects
• 3.5 Editing
• 3.6 Continuity
• 3.7 Reception
• 3.8 Video and DVD releases
• 4.1 Starring
• 4.2 Also starring
• 4.3 Guest Stars
• 4.4 Special Appearance By
• 4.5 Uncredited Co-Stars
• 4.6 References
• 4.7 External links

Summary [ ]

On the USS Voyager 's bridge , Commander Chakotay informs Captain Janeway about an unusual spatial object the crew has detected, saying that although it looks like a comet, it is moving too erratically to be one. Janeway considers the possibilities of the anomaly 's nature. On her instruction, Lieutenant Torres heads from the bridge to transporter room two and tries to beam aboard a comet fragment for study, surrounding the transporter with a class three containment field . She energizes the transporter but, instead of the sample, she beams aboard a man, clothed in a Starfleet captain's uniform , who steps down from the transporter platform walking directly through the containment field with little effort and then greets Torres, announcing that his name is Q .

Act One [ ]

Torres contacts Janeway, asking her to come to the transporter room and reporting Q's arrival. Janeway immediately initiates a red alert and starts to head to the transporter room. With a flash, however, Q appears beside Torres. He addresses the captain via Torres' combadge , assuring Janeway not to bother; he instead asks for her permission to take her to lunch.

With more flashes, Q and Janeway materialize in Voyager 's mess hall , wherein Q enthusiastically greets her and even causes a table to become laden with dishes, specifically Welsh rarebit . Janeway begins to formally introduce herself but Q interrupts, ending her sentence for her. Neelix is puzzled at the selection of food, remarking about rabbits , and wonders whether their new arrival is a chef that Janeway is interviewing. While interestedly studying crew members clustered around the room, Q tries to persuade the officers to eat, referring to the food he has provided as a token of his appreciation at being released from captivity, a story that Janeway skeptically questions. Q seems stunned to encounter the crew of mortals and reveals an envy of Kes ' short lifespan as, more than any other desire, he wants to die. Janeway then confronts him, having assumed that he is the same Q who has repeatedly visited the USS Enterprise -D but he tells her that he is not. Q again interrupts her and, muttering to himself, he starts to say that she has mistaken him for someone else but he breaks off mid-sentence. Mentioning a need for expediency before "others" discover where he is, Q makes a small speech that – apparently – he has spent three hundred years preparing. The speech culminates in him pronouncing the end of himself but, when he flicks his right wrist, the resultant flash instead causes all the male crew members to disappear; a message from Torres confirms for Janeway that this mass disappearance is a ship-wide phenomenon. On Janeway's directive, Q tries to return the men but is so out of practice with his own abilities that he is unable to cause a flash that will bring them back. He flippantly apologizes to Janeway.

" What have you done now, Q? "

With another flash, he returns her to the bridge. Janeway insists that he bring the crew back, but he admits that he doesn't know how to. As he ponders over the question of who would have more recent experience with Humans than he does, the "original" Q appears on the bridge in a flash. He sternly asks what the second Q has now done, before glancing over at Janeway.

Act Two [ ]

Less than thrilled about Voyager 's presence in the Delta Quadrant , Q remarks that Humans shouldn't be in this area of space for another one hundred years . Quinn denies responsibility for the Humans' presence. When Janeway admits that she and her crew are responsible for Quinn's release from imprisonment, Q blames the captain's femininity and claims he was betting Riker would receive command of Voyager . Janeway mentions that she has heard of Q. He is thrilled and wants to know more but becomes distracted by the fact that there are only women on the bridge. When prompted to explain what happened to all the men, Quinn describes it as "a slight accident." Q correctly guesses that he was attempting suicide and, in disgust, brings the male crew members back to their stations, after which he whimsically comments on Chakotay's tattoo .

" We're under attack… by protons "

Voyager is reduced to an ornament on a Christmas tree

Although Q intends to leave immediately with the former prisoner, Quinn insists on a request for Janeway to grant him asylum from his brethren. As the pair of Q quarrel over the plea and Quinn tries to escape from Q, Quinn dangerously transports Voyager to the time of the Big Bang (Q mentioning that the crew's atoms could end up being the origin of the humanoid form) and then reduces the ship to subatomic proportions, causing the vessel to be battered by protons . After Q found them every time, Quinn transforms the vessel into a Christmas tree ornament but Q picks the ornament up off the tree and peers into the vessel's viewscreen , warning Quinn that there is nowhere to hide. An angered Janeway, desperate to end their dispute and save her ship, agrees to hold a hearing between the troublesome pair to consider Quinn's request for asylum. Both accept, but each have their own conditions. If Q wins, Quinn will spend eternity in captivity. If Quinn wins, he will be granted mortality so that he may commit suicide. Janeway is therefore presented with a dilemma whose difficulty Q lengthily remarks on.

Act Three [ ]

" I am curious. Have the Q always had an absence of manners or is it the result of some natural evolutionary process that comes with omnipotence? "

Quinn flashes into Tuvok's office to find him studying a PADD . Quinn requests that Tuvok act as his counsel during the hearing because Vulcans approve of suicide. Tuvok protests, saying that even though Vulcans who are infirm do practice ritual suicide he has no legal expertise. Quinn persists with his request and Tuvok finally says he will speak to Janeway about it.

Later, with Tuvok acting as Quinn's counsel, the hearing begins with Janeway asking the Qs to promise not to turn the hearing into a circus. They both agree and Janeway begins by asking Quinn one of the most pressing questions: Why does he want to commit suicide? He tells her he doesn't agree with the fact that each individual of the Continuum is obligated to follow the path that his or her life will follow. He wants his path to lead to death and doesn't think that the Continuum should be able to interfere in his choices.

Q frustrated by Tuvok

Q calls himself to the stand as a witness, creating an identical him. Q the lawyer and Q the witness discuss the impact a suicide would have on the life of the Q as a whole species. It would be an interruption to society but neither part of Q's personality can specify how it will disrupt society, because they have never had to deal with a suicide before. Quinn accuses the Continuum of being afraid of the unknown but Q characterizes his remarks as that of a mentally unbalanced person and says that no one can justify the suicide of a mentally unbalanced person. Tuvok, however, challenges that statement, as the sole reasoning behind it is that Quinn wants to kill himself.

The conditions Quinn must endure for eternity

Tuvok points out that the Continuum has, in the past, executed some of its members as punishment and inquires if their deaths also created interruption in the society. Q contradicts this statement, saying that their crimes created the interruption and their deaths ended it and even then the executions were only carried out as a last resort. He also says that Tuvok's argument is an unfair comparison because Tuvok is comparing the preservation of social order and anarchy . When Tuvok asks about Q's own record of being deemed mentally unstable, he hotly retorts that his record has been cleared, which Tuvok takes as an affirmation. The witness Q is dismissed from the stand.

Maury Ginsberg, one of the witnesses

Q requests to call in more witnesses to help his case, attempting to show how Quinn's existence has had influence throughout the galaxy during Earth; to that end he wants to call people from Earth. Janeway is shocked, but agrees when Q promises their appearances will not affect the timeline and all will have their memories wiped. Q then causes Isaac Newton , Maury Ginsberg , and William T. Riker to appear. Upon seeing Q, Riker becomes agitated and demands to know what Q is up to. Janeway explains the situation to him while also lamenting that, since his memory will have to be wiped, Riker won't be able to inform Starfleet of Voyager 's situation. The two former have a hard time believing that they are on a starship, so Janeway tells them to pretend they are having a very strange dream, in which they are seeing the same man they've all met before. Newton recognises Quinn as the man who jostled the tree causing the apple to fall, which allowed him to discover gravity . Ginsberg also remembers Quinn as the man who gave him a ride to Woodstock (where he was a spotlight operator) after his car broke down, a fortunate occurrence as Ginsberg was able to save the concert when the sound system failed by spotting a snagged wire. Riker doesn't recognise Quinn, until Q summons a photo of Riker's ancestor, Colonel Thaddius Riker with the man who carried him from the front lines of the American Civil War after he was wounded in action. Riker realizes the man who helped his ancestor was none other than Quinn. Q explains that Quinn helped shape the lives of all these men: he helped Newton redefine science, ensured Ginsberg made it to Woodstock (as well as introducing him to his future wife), and guaranteed the existence of Will Riker who, as Q points out, would save the Federation from assimilation by the Borg . Q then transports all three back to the proper times and places.

" Q! What the hell is going on?! "

Quinn takes himself, Q, Janeway and Tuvok to a replicated interior of the comet in an effort to help his case. Q tells him that it is his own fault that he has been held in captivity and he could be free if he didn't want to commit suicide. Back on Voyager , Janeway tells Quinn that she cannot take into account the circumstances of his confinement into her ruling, as he is only confined there due to his desire to kill himself. She tells Quinn that the only thing she has found that could possibly justify a ruling in Quinn's favor is the "double effect" principle, which justifies the release from suffering, age, or infirmity even if it also causes death. So far, Quinn has shown no sign of suffering or being in pain, and Janeway tells Quinn that he needs to prove he suffers in any manner other than the conditions of his confinement. Tuvok requests a recess so he and Quinn can consider their response.

In the mess hall, the two men discuss their failure to prove their case. Quinn is grateful to Tuvok for believing in him, but Tuvok says that Quinn's position is not his own and that Quinn appears to only wish to commit suicide due to the fact he is bored by life as a Q and he doesn't believe that a life like his should be wasted. Quinn remarks that Tuvok has managed to surprise him, which is unusual; he also says that if Tuvok lived the life of a Q, he would understand the logic behind his position. Tuvok then proposes visiting the Continuum itself.

Act Four [ ]

Quinn's column argues against immortality

In her ready room , Janeway asks Q if the Continuum would reconsider putting Quinn in captivity if she rules against him but instead try to reintegrate him into society. Q refuses, saying that Quinn is too dangerous but has been authorized to offer something else as an incentive for Janeway to make, in the Continuum's opinion, the correct decision: if Janeway rules in his favor, then the Continuum will return Voyager to Earth .

The next day, Tuvok tells everyone at the hearing that he and Quinn wish to demonstrate life in the Continuum itself. Q objects saying that Humans would never understand, but Tuvok counters that Quinn has a right to display the living conditions that are responsible for his suffering. Janeway agrees, and Quinn whispers to Q how he will display life in the Continuum to Janeway and Tuvok. Q still isn't happy, but agrees. Quinn then takes everyone to the Continuum…

…which appears as an endless road in the desert. Janeway is incredulous that this is the Continuum, and Quinn explains that this is simply a representation of the Continuum, created so she can comprehend it. He then leads everyone to a small, run-down building by the side of the road.

In the building are several people each doing various things. Some are reading newspapers and magazines (called 'The Old' and 'The New'), another man is playing a pinball machine named "Galaxy", and a couple play croquet with balls that appear to be miniature planets. Quinn explains that the road represents the universe, and that it goes around in a large circle before ending up right back at the building. Quinn has traveled the road many, many times and has done everything he can in the building. Played the games, sat on the porch, been the dog, and even took the place of the scarecrow once before. When Janeway asks why, he tells her that it was simply because he hadn't done it before. Janeway states that the people in the building don't seem to be suffering, and Quinn states that they don't dare feel sad because if they did then at least that would be some progress.

Quinn then tells Janeway that, when he was a respected philosopher, he celebrated the purity the Q had reached and at the beginning of their era the Continuum was full of discussion on the discoveries and the issues that arose in the universe, but now everyone is silent because there is nothing left to talk about. Everything has already been said, and no-one has spoken to each other for ten millennia as a result.

Q states that he doesn't mind the peace and quiet, causing Quinn to remark on the irony that Q would be arguing on behalf on the Continuum when it was Q who was once exiled from the Continuum and made mortal to pay for his crimes. Q simply states that he is a different person now, and Quinn tells Q what a pity that is because the person Q was before, the Q that was out of control and used his powers for his own amusement, inspired him. Q only acted that way because there was nothing left to do in the Continuum, and while he acted that way the Continuum had something to talk about. But then Q was snapped back into line by the Continuum and became just another fine, upstanding member of it, but Quinn misses the old Q that forced him to think. Although he tries not to show it, Q is clearly affected by Quinn's words.

Quinn then picks up a copy of The New and shows one of its articles to Janeway. Titled "I'm Ready to Die; How About You?", it was written by Quinn and was the beginning of his fall from grace. Quinn explains that although the magazine was shut down after the article, Quinn continued to speak out in favor of his suicide and the Continuum was so scared of him that they locked him away in the comet, displaying that the Continuum only favors an individuals rights as long as they don't conflict with the state. Quinn feels his life's work is complete, yet the Continuum has forced immortality on him and as a result he feels his life is cheapening alongside that of the Continuum. Quinn then asks Janeway that, if there was no more space left to explore, no new discoveries left to be made and nothing else to do, would she really want to live forever under those circumstances? In response to Janeway asking him to equate how he suffers in relation to pain or disease he tells her the disease is immortality and that when an immortal's life is futile and no longer endurable then it should be allowed to end.

Everyone is transported back to the hearing room, and Tuvok declares that he and Quinn rest their case. Janeway calls a recess so she can consider her decision.

Act Five [ ]

As Janeway tries to sleep, Q appears in her quarters and asks her if she had thought anymore about his offer to bring Voyager home if she rules in his favor. She dismisses it as a bribe and tells him it will play no part in her decision. However, Q has talked to the members of the Continuum and persuaded them into giving Janeway what she asked for: Quinn will not go back into his cell, someone will be assigned to look after him, to bring him back into the normal life of the Q. Q tells her that she has won and that he thinks the two of them should celebrate together. She, however, doesn't like that at all and orders him to leave.

In the hearing room once again, Janeway begins to deliver her judgement. She tells Quinn that she has considered the implication that granting asylum would lead to a death, even if the death is self-inflicted. She has also considered the possible consequences that Quinn's suicide could have on the Q Continuum. The idea of making a decision that could affect an entire society, be for the better or for the worse, has troubled her. Despite all this, with the evidence that she has been presented she declares that Quinn is not mentally unbalanced and it is clear he is undergoing intolerable suffering. Janeway finishes that she won't support immortality that is forced on an individual by the state and that the possible consequences suffered by the Continuum aren't enough to justify Quinn's continued suffering and rules in his favor, granting Quinn asylum. Q is disappointed but he honors the agreement made at the beginning of the trial and turns Quinn mortal. Janeway then tells Quinn that, rather than committing suicide, maybe he could give mortality a try, as there are a great many sensations and feelings he could explore and he could explore his new existence. Quinn thinks about it and agrees to try.

In her ready room, Janeway and Chakotay are trying to figure out a post for Quinn when The Doctor calls her down to sickbay : Quinn is dying. Janeway arrives in sickbay, where Tuvok and The Doctor are waiting for her, just before Quinn dies. The Doctor informs Janeway that Quinn ingested a form of Nogatch hemlock , for which there is no known cure. Quinn tells her that he would only be pretending to fit into mortal life, that his death is his final gift to his people and he was grateful to Janeway for making his death possible.

The Doctor tells Janeway that he doesn't store the hemlock or any fatal poisons, and Tuvok points out that the replicators won't produce it either. Janeway wonders how Quinn obtained the hemlock, just as Q shows up again. He informs the startled officers that he was the one who assisted Quinn in his suicide. Q remarks that it was Quinn, not he, who was truly irrepressible. He hopes that he could be a worthy student of Quinn's ways and when Janeway remarks that the Continuum won't be happy with him, his only response is, " I certainly hope not. " He bids Janeway goodbye, promising that they will meet again .

Memorable quotes [ ]

" Hello. My name is Q. "

" Welsh rarebit , just like your grandfather used to make. " " 'Rabbit'? She never told me she likes rabbits. What is a rabbit anyway? Is this some new chef she's interviewing? "

" Captain, there are no stars outside. " " Well, that's partially accurate. Actually, there's no universe outside. "

" This ship will not survive the formation of the cosmos! " " Yes, but just think of the honor of having your DNA spread from one corner of the universe to the other. Why, you could be the origin of the… humanoid form! "

" What have you done now, Q? Well now, isn't this just fine? Humans aren't supposed to be in this quadrant for another hundred years! " " I didn't bring them here. Nothing to do with me! "

" How did you get out, Q? " " I'm afraid we're responsible for that. " " Oh, well I guess that's what we get for having a woman in the captain's seat. "

" You know, I was betting that Riker would get this command. " " May I assume that you're the Q that I've heard so much about? " " Have you heard about little me? Oh, do tell. Has Jean-Luc been whispering about me behind my back? "

" Say, is this a ship of the Valkyries? Or have you Human women finally done away with your men altogether? "

" Facial art. Ooh, how very wilderness of you. "

" You can't hide from me, Q! " " And you can't take me by force! I'll stalemate you for eternity if I have to! " " The hell you will! The vaunted Q Continuum : 'Self-anointed Guardians of the Universe '! How dare you come aboard this ship and endanger this crew with your personal tug-of-war! " " Did anyone ever tell you you're angry when you're beautiful? "

" How would you like to spend eternity as a Gorokian midwife toad ? " " Oh, just try it! "

" Will you send him to prison for eternity or will you assist in his suicide plan? That's a toughie, but that's why they made you captain, isn't it? To handle the real tough ones? My, my. Now I guess we get to find out whether the pants… really fit. "

" I am curious. Have the Q always had an absence of manners, or is it the result of some natural evolutionary process that comes with omnipotence? "

" You mustn't think of us as omnipotent, no matter what the Continuum would like you to believe. You and your ship seem incredibly powerful to lifeforms without your technological expertise! It's no different with us; we may appear omnipotent to you, but believe me, we're not! "

" Madame Captain, we are dealing here with an issue of the greatest importance to the Q Continuum. I can assure you that we take this matter very seriously. " " Thank you. And please don't call me Madame Captain. "

" You could live a perfectly normal life if you were simply willing to live a perfectly normal life! "

" With your permission, Captain, I would like to call an expert on the Continuum to discuss the implications of the decision to be made. " " Proceed. " " I call myself to the stand. " (A copy of Q appears) " Ta-da! " " Thank you for coming! It's a rare honor to have someone of your reputation and accomplishment with us today. " " Thank you! "

" Ugh, Vulcans! "

" God , if you let me live through this, I promise I'll clean up my act, I swear. "

" I demand an explanation! Why are you dressed like this , young man? " " Man, have you looked in a mirror lately? "

" Wait a minute… weren't you the guy in the Jeep? "

" Q has had a profound influence on these three lives. Without Q, Isaac Newton would've died forgotten in a Liverpool debtor's prison , a suspect in several prostitute murders. Without Q, there would've been no concert at, uh… " (meekly) " Woodstock ! " " Wherever. More importantly, Mr. Ginsberg would never have met his future wife – the 'groovy chick' with the long red beads – and he would never have become a successful orthodontist, and settled in Scarsdale with four kids. " " Far out! " " Yes… without Q, there would've been no William T. Riker at all, and I would have lost at least a dozen really good opportunities to insult him over the years. And lest I forget, without Q, the Borg would've assimilated the Federation . "

" Based on my research, you have been many things. A rude, interfering, inconsiderate, sadistic… " " You've made your point. " " …pest. And, oh yes, you introduced us to the Borg, thank you very much. But one thing you have never been is a liar. " " I think you have uncovered my one redeeming virtue. Am I blushing? "

" This is the Q Continuum? A road in the desert? "

" I traveled the road many times, sat on the porch, played the games, been the dog , everything! I was even the scarecrow for a while. " " Why? " " Because I hadn't done it. " " Oh, we've all done the scarecrow, big deal! "

(A restless Janeway suddenly finds Q in pajamas and a sleeping cap, lying next to her in bed) " Trouble sleeping? " " Ooh! " (Janeway bolts out of bed as Q sits up) " Did you ever try warm Kylerian goat's milk? " " Get out! "

" Let's celebrate. Just you and me, the two of us! " " What?! " " I'll take you home. Before you know it, you'll be scampering across the meadow with your little puppies, the grass beneath your bare feet, a man coming over the hill way in the distance waves to you, you run to be in his arms and as you get closer, you see that it's… me! " " You?! " " Forget Mark ! I know how to show a girl a good time! How would you like a ticker-tape parade down Sri Lanka Boulevard; the captain that brought Voyager back a celebrated hero? I never did anything like that for Jean-Luc! But I feel very close to you; I'm not sure why. Maybe it's because you have such authority and manage to preserve your femininity so well. " "Leave."

" May I see you in your chambers, Captain? " " You've been in my chambers enough for one visit, sir. "

(Q takes away Quinn's powers and makes him Human) " Nothing happened. Nothing! My powers are gone! I'm… mortal. " " Well, so much for ticker-tape parades. "

" I'm sorry to disappoint you, Captain. But I would only have been pretending to fit into this mortal existence. This is my final gift to my people. Oh! Tell them those were my last words. I dearly thank you for making this poss… "

" By demanding to end his life, he taught me a little something about my own. He was right when he said the Continuum scared me back in line. I didn't have his courage or his convictions. He called me irrepressible. This was a man who was truly irrepressible. I only hope I make a worthy student. " " I imagine the Continuum won't be very happy with you, Q. " " I certainly hope not. Au revoir , Madame Captain. We will meet again. "

Background information [ ]

Story and script [ ].

• Prior to this episode, rumors about a Q story for Star Trek: Voyager had been circulating almost as long as the series had been in production. ( The Official Star Trek: Voyager Magazine  issue 6 )
• However, coming up with a justifiable means to include Q on Star Trek: Voyager initially proved challenging. One particular member of the series' production staff who was worried about this problem was executive producer Rick Berman . Janeway actress Kate Mulgrew noted, " Rick Berman was very concerned about how to get Q into the Delta Quadrant. " Berman himself recalled, " As much as we've wanted Q on Voyager , getting him here has been tricky. " ( TV Guide , 17-23 Feb.) Berman also explained, " Bringing Q to Star Trek: Voyager has to be done carefully. We don't want to give the impression that of all Starfleet ships around, the only ones Q visits are those that have on-air series. " ( Star Trek Monthly  issue 10 , p. 6) Fellow executive producer Jeri Taylor likewise remembered, " There was a great deal of discussion [about] whether we could legitimately get Q on this ship. What were we saying? That Q only appears to starships that have their own series? Why this one? " ( Cinefantastique , Vol. 28, No. 4/5, p. 100) Executive producer Michael Piller concluded, " Everybody wanted to see Q, but we were just not willing to create a Q episode. We knew he could go anywhere in the universe, but we had to have a story that justified it. " ( Cinefantastique , Vol. 28, No. 4/5, p. 100)
• It was important to both Rick Berman and Michael Piller not only that the story would revolve around Q but also that the episode would mark a change in the character's persona. Q actor John de Lancie recalled, " One of the things Michael had said was that he wanted to do a Q story, not a story about how Q affects other people, but how the story affects him, and that he goes from his usual flamboyant self to someone much more introspective. You see that he's truly troubled by a philosophical and unresolvable problem. " ( The Official Star Trek: Voyager Magazine  issue 6 ) Michael Piller himself noted, " We really wanted a show that would advance the character of Q and as it turned out the race of Q. " ( Cinefantastique , Vol. 28, No. 4/5, p. 98) Likewise, Rick Berman remarked, " We [didn't] need yet another oh-here's-Q-being-a-pain-in-the-neck story. We needed to move into new Q territory. " ( TV Guide , 17-23 Feb.)
• The solution of devising a workable Q story for Star Trek: Voyager was suggested by twenty-three-year old Shawn Piller , the son of Michael Piller. Recalling the younger Piller's original mention of the idea to him, Michael Piller recounted, " My son heard me chatting away at the dinner table and he came in and started pitching and he gave me this basic idea. " ( Captains' Logs Supplemental - The Unauthorized Guide to the New Trek Voyages ) The senior Piller also remarked, " When my son heard me talking about [the difficulties of bringing Q to Voyager ] at home, he came up with the idea that all of us had been looking for for years, and that is a true creative achievement [....] The bottom line is [we had] been looking for a Q story that we would feel comfortable with. " ( Cinefantastique , Vol. 28, No. 4/5, pp. 98, 100) Shawn Piller's solution specifically involved another member of the Q Continuum necessitating the introduction of the familiar Q. Jeri Taylor commented, " [It] found a way to get him there which was via the other Q. We inadvertently beam him on board and he needs someone who knows about humans. Who better than John de Lancie for that? " ( Cinefantastique , Vol. 28, No. 4/5, p. 100)
• The next step was presenting Shawn Piller's idea to the series' writing staff, with the obvious exception of his father, who reflected, " I had him come in and pitch with everyone in the room. " Despite his familiarity with Voyager 's production staff, Shawn Piller was still required to take this next step. Michael Piller explained, " Everybody knows Shawn and would like to help him. But we're not just going to hand him an assignment because he's my son. I'm pretty tough that way, but he came up with this thing himself and he wrote the story himself. " ( Captains' Logs Supplemental - The Unauthorized Guide to the New Trek Voyages ) Commenting on this meeting, the senior Piller proudly noted, " The most experienced Star Trek minds had been stumped by the challenge of bringing Q to Voyager – but my son walked in with the answer. " ( TV Guide , 17-23 Feb.) Shawn Piller's plot idea was immediately approved by the series' writing staff. Jeri Taylor remarked, " Michael's son, Shawn Piller, sold the story to us [....] It worked and if it worked we were happy to do it. " ( Cinefantastique , Vol. 28, No. 4/5, p. 100)
• Although Michael Piller had ignored his son's first story proposal (which had, nevertheless, gone on to become the story for TNG : " Journey's End "), the senior Piller – who had a long track record of accepting story ideas, regardless of their source – found himself compelled to accept the pitch. Michael Piller recounted, " I would have been a fool to turn it down. The record is very clear that I will buy a good story from anybody. " ( TV Guide , 17-23 Feb.) After having bought the story, Michael Piller insisted on scripting the episode's teleplay. Referring to his son, the writer remarked, " He would have loved to have written the script, but as I said, there are no favors here. He had never written a teleplay, and I wasn't going to pay him to practice on us. " ( Captains' Logs Supplemental - The Unauthorized Guide to the New Trek Voyages )
• The way that the Pillers approached this episode was usual of Michael Piller and the other producers of Star Trek: Voyager , rooting the story's imaginative concepts – typical of the far-out ideas that the writers frequently devised for Star Trek – in the personal dynamics of the characters and how the aforementioned concepts would affect them. In this case, the Pillers used three typical methods of focusing the story on the characters; they created an alien character (in this case, Quinn) with whom the audience could identify, they used an alien culture (the Q) to personify the concepts that the writers wanted to explore (such as immortality and omniscience), and they centered their story around a character (Quinn) who would be most affected or hurt by the situation (using this as a means to dramatize immortality, which would probably be normally a somewhat comfortable situation, not particularly conducive to drama). ( Star Trek: Fan Collective - Q text commentary )
• Star Trek: Voyager 's writing staff also set out to make Q's relationship with Janeway considerably different from the relationship that the former character had had with Jean-Luc Picard in Star Trek: The Next Generation . Jeri Taylor recalled of this challenge, " Could we develop a relationship between him and Janeway that wouldn't be a repetition of his relationship with Picard. We had no interest in doing that. " ( Cinefantastique , Vol. 28, No. 4/5)
• Another challenge was devising a way to avoid the possibility of Q solving one of Star Trek: Voyager 's central premises. Rick Berman explained, " The Voyager crew is lost in space and Q has the power to bring them home. Obviously we can't let him do that or we wouldn't have a series. " ( TV Guide , 17-23 Feb.) John de Lancie himself suggested a quick and easy solution to this difficulty. At the Grand Slam IV Star Trek convention in Pasadena, California in May 1996 , de Lancie told his audience, " One of the writers said to me a good year and a half ago, 'You know, we have some difficulty with the idea of having Q on Star Trek: Voyager , because you could get them home. You, in fact, know how to get them home.' And I said, 'Why is that a problem? I don't see that as being a problem.' " De Lancie had then proceeded to suggest that the writers solve their so-called "problem" by quickly having Janeway ask Q if he had the knowledge or means to take the crew home, him replying positively, she asking if he would do so and, finally, him simply refusing. De Lancie added, " Now that would solve the problem, wouldn't it? " ( Star Trek Monthly  issue 17 ) He also related, " I know that there was a discussion at one point, where they said, 'You know Q could take them all back.' I said, 'Yes that's true, [but] you might imagine a dialogue that goes like this, "Q, can you get us back?" "Yes I can." "Well will you?" "No, I don't think I will," and that's the end of it.' " ( Cinefantastique , Vol. 28, No. 4/5, p. 87)
• The original working title of this episode was "Untitled Q".
• The episode's teleplay consistently refers to the Q who ultimately names himself Quinn as "Q2", referring to the more familiar Q almost entirely as "Q1". In fact, the script introduces the latter Q by describing him as "our old friend Q (hereafter referred to as Q1)". Coincidentally, "Q2" was also used to refer to Corbin Bernsen 's Q character in TNG : " Deja Q ", and a seventh season episode would be titled " Q2 ".
• Regarding the story, Michael Piller remarked, " I have never been happy doing something strictly for stunt. I don't mind doing something that's promotable, but I want to start out with a story that's worth telling, and this show was about a genuine Human concern in that Q2, who can live forever, doesn't want to. What a twist on the normal wish that Humans seem to have to live forever. " ( Captains' Logs Supplemental - The Unauthorized Guide to the New Trek Voyages ) Piller certainly liked writing this episode, which he cited (along with " Meld " and " Lifesigns ") as one of a few from Voyager 's second season whose development involved a great deal of enjoyment. " Those shows were more fun to write for me than the big space battle, " he said, " because I like character interaction. I like what the characters are doing to themselves and there are personal stakes involved and character conflicts involved. " ( Cinefantastique , Vol. 28, No. 4/5, p. 79)
• This episode's final draft script was submitted on 9 October 1995 . [1]
• When asked whether he thought the episode deals responsibly with the philosophical problems it raises, John de Lancie stated, " It poses the question; I don't know if it handles the issue. I argue for life, because of the effect one has on other people's lives, but the other side is when you're in such pain that you have the opportunity of being able to individually say, 'Enough.' The fact that Janeway agrees that Q2 is in fact in psychic pain, which permits me to help resolve the situation, is only one solution. We posed a question, and I'm hoping that people think about the issue and realize that there are at least two ways of going. That's as much of the social issue as we need to affect. 'Death Wish' poses big problems in terms of our concept of god-likeness and immortality. The idea that immortality is a disease gives us mortals who envy the Q – thinking, 'The king's life must be so much better than mine' – the realization that, well, the Q's life isn't so great, is it? " ( The Official Star Trek: Voyager Magazine  issue 6 )
• Supervising producer Brannon Braga felt that, at its core, this episode had a very contemporary theme. He noted, " Euthanasia in the Q episode 'Death Wish' is a very Nineties issue. " ( Star Trek Monthly  issue 20 )
• John De Lancie had a deeply spiritual interpretation of the scene wherein Q comments, " Oh, we've all done the scarecrow, big deal. " The actor remarked, " Because of the large philosophical stories, you can get all sorts of ideas in. That line, when I read it, evoked in me this idea – I don't know which religion says this, but you're moved in your reincarnations towards the seventh level of comprehension or whatever, and you're sometimes stuck playing the same role over and over again, until you learn and can then go on to the next level. That's what I got out of it. Hopefully, 22 million people watching it will get something different out of it as well. " ( The Official Star Trek: Voyager Magazine  issue 6 )
• Given the complexity of the themes explored in this episode, Rick Berman was initially somewhat unsure if the episode would turn out well but was hopeful that it would. On the first day of the episode's production period, he related, " Although it's got a lot of humor as most Q shows do, it's also an examination of the question of suicide and assisted suicide […] done in a metaphorical sense. But it's gonna be, I hope, provocative and quite interesting [....] Sometimes people would accuse the Q shows of reaching for things, him just popping onto the USS Enterprise or the Deep Space Nine space station, for example, for no purpose except to cause a little mischief. We've been trying to focus on Q stories with a little more meaning than that, and have a very solid reason to have Q in the mix of a given episode, so we'll see what happens. " ( Star Trek Monthly  issue 10 )

Cast and characters [ ]

• As of this episode, John de Lancie has played the same character on three different live-action Star Trek series. The only other actors to do so are Jonathan Frakes ( Commander Riker / Thomas Riker ), Marina Sirtis ( Counselor Deanna Troi ), Armin Shimerman ( Quark ), Michael Ansara ( Kang ), Richard Poe ( Gul Evek ), Mark Allen Shepherd ( Morn ), Patrick Stewart ( Captain Jean-Luc Picard ), Michael Dorn ( Worf ) and LeVar Burton ( Geordi La Forge ).
• John de Lancie and Janeway actress Kate Mulgrew had known each other, as friends, throughout fifteen years prior to the making of this episode, having originally become acquainted due to numerous dinner parties. However, this episode constituted the first time they had worked together on-screen. ( TV Guide , 17-23 Feb.)
• Before this installment's creation, John de Lancie had very often been asked whether he would be appearing on Star Trek: Voyager . ( Cinefantastique , Vol. 28, No. 4/5, p. 87) He was only included in Voyager after Kate Mulgrew had striven to have him involved in the series. About the time of this episode's production, Mulgrew said of her co-star, " I have campaigned very hard to get him on Voyager [....] I even threw a dinner party with the Bermans and the de Lancies and we talked all night long. I said, 'You've got to find a way.' " ( TV Guide , 17-23 Feb.) John de Lancie himself remarked, " I think Kate wanted me to be on the show. I think Rick [Berman] wanted me to be on the show. It just [required] the script, that's all. " ( Cinefantastique , Vol. 28, No. 4/5, p. 87)
• It wasn't until well into production on the second season of Star Trek: Voyager that John de Lancie was notified that this episode was ready for him. He uncertainly recalled, " I don't remember specifically when it was, because I was busy doing other projects when my agent simply called and said, 'They have a Star Trek episode for you.' As a matter of fact, for a week or so, I was under the impression that it was going to be Deep Space Nine . " ( The Official Star Trek: Voyager Magazine  issue 6 )
• John De Lancie played Q in this episode amid a hectic schedule, immediately after returning from preparing to appear in the play Peer Gynt in New York. He recalled, " I came back and went into Voyager almost the day after I came back. It was a very busy time, and I just didn't know much of anything at that point. " ( The Official Star Trek: Voyager Magazine  issue 6 )
• Immediately after reading the episode's script, a grateful John de Lancie called Michael Piller, complimenting him on the story and considering how good, based on the script, the other Voyager episodes had to be, as the actor had never watched the series before. ( TV Guide , 17-23 Feb.; The Official Star Trek: Voyager Magazine  issue 6 )
• According to Kate Mulgrew, this episode was an important step in her gaining more creative control over the depiction of her character. The actress recalled, " I would say it took about two seasons before Rick [Berman] to say, 'Lookit. She's obviously got her own handle on this character. Let's let her fly and see what happens.' I remember, from that moment forward, talking to them creatively about the writing, and being respected. I remember, uh… I think it was probably an episode called 'Death Wish', wanting very much to be an integral part of that process. And I remember Berman saying, very clearly, 'You just go for it. We'll back off, from now on.' " ( Voyager Time Capsule: Kathryn Janeway , VOY Season 1 DVD special feature) Mulgrew also stated, " 'Death Wish' broke me open. I gained new confidence, new wings in 'Death Wish.' " ( Star Trek Monthly  issue 83 , p. 25)
• Both John de Lancie and Kate Mulgrew were very satisfied with the script of this episode, describing it as "terrific." Mulgrew added, " Very clever. Very literate. Classic Star Trek […] This is what we've prepared all our lives for! This is writing any literate actor would be passionate about. " ( TV Guide , 17-23 Feb.) Mulgrew later listed this episode among her five favorite episodes from the entirety of Star Trek: Voyager , stating, " The script was wonderful. The arguments about suicide were very compelling. " ( Star Trek Monthly  issue 83 , p. 25) With an analogy to classical music, de Lancie noted, " There is something demoralizing about being trained to play Chopin piano concertos but being asked to play jingles. Most television shows – and a lot of movies and plays – are jingles. " Picking up the episode's script, he concluded, " Now this is a concerto. " ( TV Guide , 17-23 Feb.) Rating the episode against his previous experiences of playing Q on Star Trek: The Next Generation and Deep Space Nine , de Lancie remarked, " In terms of what was on the page, I would say this episode and '" Tapestry "' were really the two best. " He added, " This is what Star Trek does best: serious, somewhat amusing, very focused stories. " ( The Official Star Trek: Voyager Magazine  issue 6 ) De Lancie also noted, " From the writing point of view I thought that this [Q episode] was an awfully good one. " ( Cinefantastique , Vol. 28, No. 4/5, p. 89) Additionally, de Lancie said, " Michael Piller did a terrific job of writing that script […] That was Star Trek at its best, which means it made you think and consider and reflect. It didn't offer easy solutions or a pat ending. " ( Star Trek Monthly  issue 34 , p. 21)
• John De Lancie took a while to adjust to playing Q in the environment of Star Trek: Voyager , compared with his previous appearances as Q in The Next Generation . The actor explained, " It was a bit strange. I was so thrilled with the script […] that there were other areas that I hadn't thought about. One of them was that the dynamics that I was accustomed to, of de Lancie and Patrick Stewart , were no longer there. It was another dynamic now, and I hadn't really gotten that into my head. We had to thrash that out a little bit. The issue was how did [Q] fit now on a whole new ship, and I found that very interesting. " Making a comparison between Janeway and Picard, de Lancie noted, " The quips are different, the testosterone level is different. " ( The Official Star Trek: Voyager Magazine  issue 6 ) De Lancie also commented, " When the script is as meaty as 'Death Wish' you don't need all the banter and the stuff Patrick and I had to add on some of the weaker Q episodes of Next Generation . We didn't need any tricks. " ( Captains' Logs Supplemental - The Unauthorized Guide to the New Trek Voyages )
• John de Lancie thought that the episodes in which he played Q should be different each time. Remarking on this particular installment, de Lancie stated, " It was a very different show than is usually the case for me. Of course I had only done nine of them, up until that point, but I didn't think that [this script] warranted too much spin, and smoke and mirrors, that the [screen]play itself held most of the water and that we really needed to just deal with the issues in the play as much as possible. " ( Cinefantastique , Vol. 28, No. 4/5, p. 88) In addition, de Lancie remarked, " This one was interesting because the element that has made this character so popular, that kind of 'in your face, fuck you' quality again was overshadowed by how well the script was written and what the story was about. I thought, rather than play that, maybe it was time to play this one much more introspectively. " ( Captains' Logs Supplemental - The Unauthorized Guide to the New Trek Voyages ) De Lancie further explained, " This is a much more introspective, much more caught off-guard Q, a facet of the character that we haven't seen much. This Q is troubled by what is being revealed–that he's part of a dying society. Our disease is immortality, and I buckled and, in this case, allowed the other Q to be a little more flamboyant because I had to show that I was toeing the company line. " ( The Official Star Trek: Voyager Magazine  issue 6 ) Shortly after working on this episode, De Lancie similarly commented, " The last show was a show that had more to do with morals, more to do with a Q that was reactive rather than active, than any of the other shows that we've had. After looking at it, I thought I could have given it a little bit of that spin [of having an unpredictable mix of both villainousness and heroism], a little more, but I wanted it to have that facet where here was a character who seemed to have a moral position and he was in a moral dilemma. " ( Star Trek Monthly  issue 17 )
• At least partly due to Q's physical appearance in the scene when he suddenly appears in Janeway's quarters, John de Lancie was somewhat amused by the scene. " Because of the nightshirt and what have you, it has […] a comedic quality about it, " he observed. De Lancie understood but found fault with a decision that was made about this scene – specifically, that having Janeway sleep with Q would detract from the captain's position. " Unlike Kirk , who can sleep with every alien! " a chuckling John de Lancie responded. " It's a double standard, but I think we would all be taken aback if Janeway started cavorting with Q. You can be up close, but the next level of intimacy is not something you want to get into, because it's not worth it in terms of where the scene would go. " ( The Official Star Trek: Voyager Magazine  issue 6 )
• During production, Kate Mulgrew found that John de Lancie had an extremely short-term memory for dialogue. When later asked if there had been any surprises pertaining to the two close friends acting together, de Lancie said, " Well, Kate discovered that I can't remember a line for longer than five minutes. Actually, five minutes might be pushing it. " ( TV Guide , 17-23 Feb.) De Lancie also said of Mulgrew, " She was great to work with. Kate […] has this phenomenal capacity to remember lines, which is intimidating at best. I found myself a little bit awash in lines, because I blew myself out in the last two jobs and was very tired, so I was always a little behind the gun when it came to that. " ( The Official Star Trek: Voyager Magazine  issue 6 )
• Ultimately, Kate Mulgrew and John de Lancie were mutually appreciative of each other's input in this episode. De Lancie enthused, " Kate was just a delight to work with. " ( Star Trek Monthly  issue 34 , p. 21) Mulgrew commented, " I was so supported by my friend John de Lancie. " ( Star Trek Monthly  issue 83 , p. 25)
• Quinn actor Gerrit Graham previously played the Lead Hunter in the Star Trek: Deep Space Nine episode " Captive Pursuit ". The episode immediately following it, " Q-Less ", is the only DS9 episode to feature Q, and to guest-star John de Lancie playing him.
• Gerrit Graham also played the lawyer of the victim in the Sledge Hammer! episode "Jagged Sledge. A fun fact that here the defendant Sledge Hammer also calls himself into the witness box and 'interviews' himself (via a cassette recorder). Sledge also praises himself for his good work like Q does in this episode.
• John De Lancie enjoyed working with Gerrit Graham. " He was marvelous, " de Lancie said of his co-star, " and very amusing. One of the qualities that the character has is a little bit of a campishness, and Gerrit picked that up very quickly. He and I had some good times with that. That's why I said it was a little different, because this was more of his event and my dilemma, and the dynamics were different. I was delighted to have it that way. " ( The Official Star Trek: Voyager Magazine  issue 6 ) De Lancie also noted about Graham, " Gerrit was marvelous. " ( Star Trek Monthly  issue 34 , p. 21)
• The Pillers originally wanted to bring on more guest stars for this episode than ultimately appeared. According to Michael Piller, " We tried to get Michael Jordan , but he wants to be hired as an actor, not as himself. We also wanted to get Cal Ripken, Jr. , Bill Gates , Henry Kissinger , or Frank Sinatra . " Piller added, " Hey, we aim high. " ( TV Guide , 17-23 Feb.)
• Prior to appearing herein, Jonathan Frakes – hoping that William T. Riker would resurface on either Star Trek: Voyager or Deep Space Nine – asked about the possibility of him making such an appearance. ( Starlog #204)
• This is the second of four Star Trek episodes to feature Jonathan Frakes in a role he originated on Star Trek: The Next Generation . He reprised his one-episode TNG role of Thomas Riker in DS9 : " Defiant ", and reappeared in his usual role of William T. Riker in this episode, ENT : " These Are the Voyages... ", and PIC : " Nepenthe ".
• Regarding his appearance in this episode, Jonathan Frakes stated, " I had no reservations about this story. I was very happy to return. " According to Frakes, he almost didn't get a chance to return because the original draft script slated LeVar Burton to make an appearance as Geordi La Forge instead. Frakes added, " But LeVar has his head shaved these days. He doesn't look much like Geordi – so I lucked out. " ( TV Guide , 17-23 Feb.) La Forge eventually got his chance to appear on Voyager in the Season 5 episode " Timeless ", after audiences had already seen the changes in Burton's appearance in Star Trek: First Contact . He also wore a beard in the subsequent films related to TNG – Star Trek: Insurrection and Star Trek Nemesis .
• The character of Maury Ginsberg was played by an actor of the same name. The producers of Star Trek liked the actor's name so much that they decided to use it for his character. ( Star Trek: Fan Collective - Q text commentary )

Production [ ]

• Production on this episode started in mid-October, 1995 . ( Star Trek Monthly  issue 10 ) As was typical with the production of Star Trek: Voyager episodes, a period of seven days was assigned for the shooting of this episode. ( Star Trek: Fan Collective - Q text commentary ) In order to await an availability in John de Lancie's schedule, however, the episode was moved back one slot in the production line-up. ( Star Trek Monthly  issue 10 , p. 6) The episode's production period also overran by one day. Kate Mulgrew described the production stage as "eight days of intense creative pleasure for me." ( Delta Quadrant , p. 103)
• The first day of production on this episode coincided with the final stages of editing of the episode " Maneuvers ". ( Star Trek Monthly  issue 10 , p. 11)
• Of the scenes that involve Janeway and Q, the first to be filmed was a scene in which the characters argue vehemently and the second was the bedroom scene wherein Q suddenly materializes in Janeway's bed. ( The Official Star Trek: Voyager Magazine  issue 6 ) The latter scene was prepared during a much longer rehearsal period than was usual for the series. Kate Mulgrew later remembered, " We rehearsed [the bedroom scene] for 45 minutes, which is extraordinary. Around here, rehearsals usually take six minutes and 15 seconds. " ( TV Guide , 17-23 Feb.) The same scene was the subject of some discussion. John de Lancie remarked, " I think they wanted to be very clear about the fact that she's not going to fall into that temptation. Kate and I talked about this a lot, because we thought, 'Well, why wouldn't she find him attractive, and why wouldn't he find her attractive?' I think it was ultimately decided that if she did sleep with Q, it would really detract from her position. " ( The Official Star Trek: Voyager Magazine  issue 6 )
• Late one Friday evening during the episode's shoot, the production crew was filming a long master shot on the bridge. The shot involved the bridge officers, Q, and Quinn. The schedule was behind. This particular scene was difficult and complex, with director James L. Conway doing numerous takes and the cast having much difficulty in trying to get the scene exactly as he wanted it. Finally, everything seemed to be going well and Conway looked pleased with the way the master shot was proceeding. The shot was almost done when a sudden loud clatter sounded, offstage. The noise abruptly halted production but stopped itself, only to be followed by a faint clatter. With the shot now ruined, almost everyone began to snicker and laugh, with the exception of assistant director Jerry Fleck , who angrily rushed to see where the noise had come from. The production staff laughed even more when they realized that unit production manager Brad Yacobian was absent. Everyone else expected him to be the last person to spoil a master shot – as he was well known for having an extremely stern and serious attitude about noise during filming – but he was indeed the guilty party and the disturbance had been a result of him trying to get a sweet snack from the craft service storeroom. Grinning broadly, he soon reappeared and loudly confirmed that he had been the culprit. ( A Vision of the Future - Star Trek: Voyager )

The filming of one of the episode's scenes in the hearing room

• The set used for the hearing in this episode was the briefing room minus its usual large table. As the briefing room table was bigger than any of the room's doors, Leslie Frankenheimer 's set dressing crew had to pull out one of the room's walls to remove the table. ( Star Trek: Fan Collective - Q text commentary ) This episode's text commentary – written by production staffers Michael and Denise Okuda – speculates that, aboard Voyager , the vessel's crew probably either dismantled the table before they could take it out of the room or that they simply beamed it out.
• An entire day was dedicated to the filming of the scene in which Quinn's involvement in the lives of Riker, Ginsberg, and Newton is discussed. Shooting the scene was an enjoyable experience for the actors involved. John de Lancie recalled, " We had a great time on one particular day […] It was when Isaac Newton and the gang were there. All day we were in that little room, and we just had a hoot. " ( Cinefantastique , Vol. 28, No. 4/5, p. 88) De Lancie also reminisced, " There was one particular day that Jonathan [Frakes] was there, as well as the gentlemen who played Isaac Newton and Maury Ginsberg–so it was them, Kate, Gerrit, Tim Russ, and I in that room, and we had a ball. We were in hysterics most of the time. I don't know how it came out on film, but we had a great time […] There were big, long difficult speeches, and nobody really had enough time to get that all under their belts, so there was a little bit of a struggle there, but we certainly had a good time. " ( The Official Star Trek: Voyager Magazine  issue 6 )
• At least one rehearsal of the scene that includes Riker was performed while Jonathan Frakes was wearing a black t-shirt but Kate Mulgrew and John de Lancie were both in their command-red Starfleet uniforms. [2]
• The comet interior was a tiny set built on Paramount Stage 9 , right next to Q's Christmas tree. Presumably owing to the proximity of the two sets, both the scene featuring the comet's interior and the scene involving the Christmas tree were filmed at about the same time as each other. ( Star Trek: Fan Collective - Q text commentary )

James L. Conway and Gerrit Graham during this episode's location shoot

• The desert location used to resemble the Q Continuum was actually in Lancaster, California . The roadside building where Quinn takes Janeway, Tuvok and Q is, in reality, a popular filming location known as "Club Ed," named after the area's first caretaker. Both the Q magazine article that Quinn shows Janeway outside the roadside building and the "Never Closes" sign on the building's exterior were designed by scenic artist Wendy Drapanas . The scene that was filmed in the desert resort was entirely done so in a day. Although location shooting was expensive, it was deemed necessary, as the surreal imagery offered an extraordinary insight into the nature of the Q Continuum. ( Star Trek: Fan Collective - Q text commentary )
• Regarding his performance in the final moments of this episode, John de Lancie commented, " I hope in the last scene that one gets the sense that [Q] has found something to do, and that is maybe go back and try to revitalize the Continuum [....] I tried to leave it a little upbeat, that Q goes back and tries to change that around. " ( The Official Star Trek: Voyager Magazine  issue 6 ) De Lancie also said of these final moments, " I think the way in which it was left, through the death of one of the Q's, I had my job cut out for me, to go back and try to affect a change in where we were, where we had come now. " ( Cinefantastique , Vol. 28, No. 4/5, p. 89)
• This episode reunited director James L. Conway with John de Lancie, the pair having worked together on the short-lived series Legend earlier in 1995. De Lancie said of the director, " He has got a great inner rhythm that's very quick and moves along, and I think he did some very good work on Legend . I talked to him after we finished this episode, and he thought it came together pretty well. " ( The Official Star Trek: Voyager Magazine  issue 6 ) Despite the fact that de Lancie and Conway both worked on numerous Star Trek episodes, this is the only one on which they collaborated.

Effects [ ]

• The melting comet that appears at the beginning of this episode is a reuse of the melting comet from TNG : " Masks ", as created by Santa Barbara Studios .
• During the episode's preproduction period, considerable thought went into deciding how the Big Bang should physically be depicted, such as what color it would be. Because there were no photons at the time of the actual Big Bang, any depiction that the production staff came up with would necessarily be historically inaccurate (though difficult to disprove). Their solution was to make it virtually all white, with merely a hint of color fringing. ( Star Trek: Fan Collective - Q text commentary )
• The protons that batter Voyager are shown in a display that, like that of the Big Bang, is a highly stylized rendering. ( Star Trek: Fan Collective - Q text commentary )
• The image of Earth that Q shows Janeway is the famous Blue Marble picture, a photograph taken in December 1972 by the crew of NASA spacecraft Apollo 17 , upon returning to Earth following the final moon landing of the Apollo program . ( Star Trek: Fan Collective - Q text commentary )
• The 1864 image of Thaddius Riker with Quinn was indeed a vintage photograph from the American Civil War. However, the picture was digitally retouched in order to graft details from the faces of actors Jonathan Frakes and Gerrit Graham into the image. ( Star Trek: Fan Collective - Q text commentary ) The photograph can be viewed here.

Editing [ ]

• This episode was subject to some significant editing. John de Lancie explained, " The problem was that the show was way too long. It was very crammed with words. Because it was almost like a play, we could have sped things up, but only after a more strenuous rehearsal period, which episodic television just doesn't afford you. So they were in a time crunch, and things had to begin to go. Some of the humor went. Some of the time it takes to have an emotional response went. There just weren't that many places where the argument could be cut. It was […] bare bones, and necessary, so I think that they found themselves between a rock and a hard spot. So they began doing internal cutting. " ( Cinefantastique , Vol. 28, No. 4/5, p. 89)

A scene removed from this episode

• The episode was originally to have started with a scene set in Harry Kim's quarters, involving the characters of Kim and Tom Paris. The scene was shot on the first day of filming but was ultimately deleted from the episode. ( Star Trek: Fan Collective - Q text commentary ) It was nevertheless thereafter included as the first scene of the later Season 2 episode " The Thaw ". As scripted for this episode, the scene would have been followed by a deleted preface to the only teaser scene in the episode's final version, with not only Kim and Paris arriving on the bridge but also Janeway, to whom Chakotay then begins to describe the comet.
• One in-joke that was originally set to be included in the episode but was later removed did not even make it into the final draft script. Concerning this jestful comment, John de Lancie explained, " I make some reference to Tim Russ [Tuvok]. Apparently he and LeVar Burton had been up for the same role [Geordi La Forge], and I make a reference to that. " ( Cinefantastique , Vol. 28, No. 4/5, p. 88) De Lancie clarified, " This episode is full of in-jokes. But one was so 'in' it got cut. In the first draft, Q was supposed to say to Tuvok, 'Without Q, you would have been the engineer on the Enterprise .' It's known among [ Trekkers ] that Tim Russ, who plays Tuvok, was the runner-up for the role of the engineer Geordi [on TNG]. " ( TV Guide , 17-23 Feb.)
• Even though the episode's final version leaves Q2's request for Tuvok to act as his counsel unanswered, the final draft script has Tuvok reply that he will speak to Captain Janeway. Q2 then thanks him and starts to gesture with his hand to disappear but, apparently due to the discussion he has had with Tuvok about the Q's lack of manners, he instead exits through the door of Tuvok's office. A deleted scene, set in Janeway's ready room, follows. Janeway is deep in study when Tuvok arrives. He lets her know about Q2's request. Despite approving of the request as being both smart of Q2 as well as his right, Janeway warns Tuvok that his task won't be an easy one. From this, Tuvok wonders if she means she is not entirely unbiased. The pair then debate how suicide is regarded in various cultures, Janeway citing it as undesirable on both Romulus and Earth (actually being illegal on the former) but Tuvok saying that Klingons , Bajorans , and Vulcans consider it an honorable way to end one's life. He argues that suicide is viewed as legal on Earth and begins to state that it may be seen as even more acceptable, if one does not take into account the survivors' emotional distress, but Janeway interrupts that she cannot do that. Tuvok asks her to at least keep an open mind, to which she answers, " Always, my friend. " After Tuvok leaves her ready room, the script details a scene that is in the final version of the episode – the first of the hearing room scenes.
• The final draft script does not include the supplemental log entry that begins the fourth act of the episode. Instead, the script has a deleted preface to a scene between Janeway and Q in the former's ready room. In this cut section, Janeway questions what she believes to be the computer about a way to contact Q but she soon realizes that he is already with her and that it has been he who has been talking in the computer's voice. Q and the irritated Janeway subsequently banter, mentioning – once each – Q's relationship with Captain Picard. Q also comments to Janeway, " We really have to do something with your hair. " Janeway then requests that they discuss the hearing but Q questions the appropriateness of doing so, outside of official proceedings (using the legal term "ex parte"). Janeway replies that she would like to remove herself from her current quandary and that Q can make that easier for her. The script proceeds along the same lines as the episode's aired version, with Janeway requesting that Q come to the next hearing session and announce that the Q Continuum are prepared to reintegrate Q2 into their society. Of this deleted content, John de Lancie remembered, " I make a reference to the fact that we really have got to do something about Kate's hair. " ( Cinefantastique , Vol. 28, No. 4/5, pp. 88-89)

Continuity [ ]

• This episode is the fourth of five Q-related episodes without a Q-play-on-word as title. The others are " Encounter at Farpoint ", " Tapestry ", " All Good Things... " and " Veritas ".
• This episode is significant in establishing the context of the Q Continuum. Prior to the episode's first airing, John de Lancie remarked, " I think that what Michael Piller has done is answer eight years of questions concerning Q, and […] posed a whole new set of questions. There are many elements in the story that people are going to be interested in finding out, not the least of which is, 'My God, we're going to the Q Continuum! What is that like?' […] What Michael [Piller] did is cement the landscape a little bit. He was making sure that there were certain posts that established what we [the Q Continuum] are, how we are, what we're doing and where we are in time […] Now that we've said it all, seen it all, done it all and heard it all, we're just dying. I thought that really helps us establish the enigmatic thing called Q and the Q Continuum. " ( The Official Star Trek: Voyager Magazine  issue 6 ) In addition, de Lancie stated, " Dyed-in-the-wool Star Trek fans will have numerous reasons to watch this episode. It answers so many questions about Q, but it raises several new issues. " ( Star Trek Monthly  issue 17 )
• This episode marks the first of two appearances of the round TNG-style combadge that appeared in TNG and early DS9 on Star Trek: Voyager . The combadge was next seen briefly when Seven of Nine had flashbacks of assimilated Starfleet officers in VOY : " Infinite Regress ". The fact that the badge is worn here by Commander Riker suggests that Q took him from sometime between 2366 and 2370 , before the USS Voyager launched in 2371 . However, this would appear to create a continuity error, as Riker seemingly recognizes Janeway as Voyager 's captain. There are several plausible explanations for this, the simplest being that individual ships have some discretion over uniform style. Another explanation is that Riker was taken in early 2371, prior to the events of Star Trek Generations (when the new combadge-design was in circulation aboard the USS Enterprise -D ), but also after Janeway being named as Voyager 's s captain, and prior to the ship's disappearance in the Badlands .
• This is also the second episode in the series to feature the Starfleet uniform from Star Trek: The Next Generation after " Non Sequitur ".
• Q also hints that Riker was offered command of Voyager , which he evidently turned down.
• Q peers into the bridge of Voyager through the viewscreen, much like Captain Kirk does when Flint shrinks the USS Enterprise in size, in TOS : " Requiem for Methuselah ".
• Q claims that, without Q2, there would have been no William Riker at all and, by extension, the Borg would have assimilated the Federation. Janeway also mentions Q's involvement in throwing the Enterprise -D into the path of a Borg cube (in the TNG episode " Q Who "), which ultimately led to the Borg's attempt to assimilate Humanity. This is the only episode of Star Trek: Voyager in which the Borg do not appear but are referred to – the series' first mention of the race who became a regular threat from the third season , onwards.
• This episode makes several references to when Q is turned Human in " Deja Q " which also features the first other Q, known (in common with Quinn in this episode's script) as Q2 .
• Tuvok's mention of members of the Q Continuum being executed for certain crimes, while not expressly mentioned, is likely a reference to Amanda Rogers ' parents from TNG : " True Q ".
• This episode features the second of two appearances of Isaac Newton on Star Trek ; he was previously played by John Neville in the TNG Season 6 episode " Descent ".
• The appearance of Q represents the sixth time besides the series premiere (after " Eye of the Needle ", " Prime Factors ", " The 37's ", " Cold Fire ", and " Threshold ") that the Voyager crew is presented with the possibility of returning home much faster than by conventional warp travel. In this case, Q could instantly return the crew home, but Janeway rejects the offer.
• This is the first of three Q episodes in Star Trek: Voyager , followed by " The Q and the Grey " and " Q2 ". The repercussions of Quinn's suicide here are depicted in "The Q and the Grey".
• This is one of numerous episodes in Voyager 's second season that each feature an element from the Alpha Quadrant; the other such elements include a colony of Humans in " The 37's ", Reginald Barclay in " Projections ", flashbacks to a youthful Chakotay's hike through a Central American jungle in " Tattoo ", many reminders of the pasts of Voyager 's crew in " Persistence of Vision " and the Cardassian Dreadnought missile in " Dreadnought ". Staff writer Lisa Klink admitted, " Unfortunately, I feel like we've done a couple cross-over type of things like bringing Q in [....] It was familiar. It was somebody who we've met before […] Individually those episodes worked well, but I think in general they had the effect of making this a familiar neighborhood. " ( Cinefantastique , Vol. 28, No. 4/5, p. 77)
• It is claimed in this episode that Q is not a liar, despite the fact that, in DS9 : " Q-Less ", Vash states that Q is called the God of Lies by the inhabitants of Brax .

Reception [ ]

• Despite feeling that this episode added to an unfortunate sense of familiarity of elements in the second season, Lisa Klink also said of this installment, " I think that was a terrific episode. " ( Cinefantastique , Vol. 28, No. 4/5, p. 77)
• With similar enthusiasm for the installment, Rick Berman described the episode as "a great new Q show" and a "charmingly conflicting episode". ( Star Trek: Communicator  issue 109 , p. 14)
• Likewise, Brannon Braga – during the fourth season of Star Trek: Voyager – expressed an appreciation for this episode, describing it as "great." ( Star Trek: The Magazine  Volume 1, Issue 1 , p. 69)
• This episode was originally intended to air towards the end of January 1996 . Recognizing the installment's publicity potential, however, UPN decided to hold the episode until the February sweeps period of that year. This decision caused the installment to interrupt a multi-episode arc involving the traitorous Michael Jonas , Tom Paris acting rebelliously, and the Kazon. ( Cinefantastique , Vol. 28, No. 4/5, p. 79)
• This episode achieved a Nielsen rating of 6.8 million homes, and a 10% share. It was the second most watched episode of Voyager 's second season (on first airing), topped only by season premiere " The 37's ". [3] (X) A contemporaneous fan poll, to which Jeri Taylor paid particular attention, also ranked this installment as the second highest-rated episode of the second season (in that case, topped by " Deadlock "). ( Star Trek: Communicator  issue 108 , p. 18) However, a currently ongoing, widespread Internet fan poll ranks the episode as the most popular installment of the second season. [4]
• In the special edition magazine Star Trek 30 Years , this episode is highlighted as being one of the magazine makers' five favorite episodes of Star Trek: Voyager 's first two seasons.
• Cinefantastique rated this episode 3 out of 4 stars. ( Cinefantastique , Vol. 28, No. 4/5, p. 92)
• Star Trek Magazine scored this episode 4 out of 5 stars, defined as " Trill -powered viewing". Additionally, Stuart Clark, a reviewer for the magazine, referred to the episode as "much trumpeted" and "a studied examination of the issues raised by euthanasia and assisted suicide," with the character of Quinn "ably played by Gerrit Graham." ( Star Trek Monthly  issue 17 , p. 59)
• Mark A. Altman commented, in a review of "Death Wish", that the episode was "a missed opportunity" and went on to say, " Though creative in bringing Q to the Delta Quadrant, the episode suffers under the weight of its lofty goals in examining the morality of assisted suicide. Frankly, it would have been much more interesting if it was our Q who had the death wish rather than being put in the unenviable position of having to urge against his suicide. There are problems in abundance, however. Q's banter with Janeway is a bit on the chauvinistic side, and a scene in which Sir Isaac Newton, Will Riker (in a pointless bit of stunt casting) and Maury Ginsberg (the man without whom Woodstock would have never happened) are assembled for the hearings is just plain loony. One of the more intriguing aspects of the episode is in its depiction of the Q Continuum, which, though appropriately surreal, seemed a little overbaked. " Altman rated the episode as "mediocre." ( Trek Navigator: The Ultimate Guide to the Entire Trek Saga , p. 57)
• The unofficial reference book Delta Quadrant (p. 105) gives this installment a rating of 9 out of 10.
• Not long after the filming of the scene in which Riker appears, John de Lancie and Jonathan Frakes had a conversation about the scene. " He said, 'That was one of the most fun days I've ever had,' " de Lancie recounted. " And I said, 'I feel the exact same way.' " ( Cinefantastique , Vol. 28, No. 4/5, p. 88) For de Lancie, the behind-the-scenes hilarity involved in the making of the scene was actually one of his most treasured memorable experiences of his entire tenure as Q. ( Star Trek Magazine  issue 168 , p. 51)
• In the same year that this episode (featuring Voyager 's transformation into a Christmas tree ornament) first aired, Hallmark released a replica of Voyager as part of their line of Star Trek -themed Christmas ornaments. ( Star Trek: Fan Collective - Q text commentary )
• The collaboration between Michael and Shawn Piller, on this episode, was the start of a lengthy professional writing partnership between them. ( Star Trek: Fan Collective - Q text commentary )

Video and DVD releases [ ]

• UK VHS release (two-episode tapes, CIC Video ): Volume 2.7, 22 July 1996
• As part of the VOY Season 2 DVD collection
• As part of the Star Trek: Fan Collective - Q collection

Links and references [ ]

Starring [ ].

• Kate Mulgrew as Captain Kathryn Janeway

Also starring [ ]

• Robert Beltran as Commander Chakotay
• Roxann Biggs-Dawson as Lieutenant B'Elanna Torres
• Jennifer Lien as Kes
• Robert Duncan McNeill as Lieutenant Tom Paris
• Ethan Phillips as Neelix
• Robert Picardo as The Doctor
• Tim Russ as Lieutenant Tuvok
• Garrett Wang as Ensign Harry Kim

Guest Stars [ ]

• Gerrit Graham as Quinn
• Peter Dennis as Isaac Newton
• Maury Ginsberg as Maury Ginsberg
• John de Lancie as Q

Special Appearance By [ ]

• Jonathan Frakes as William T. Riker

Uncredited Co-Stars [ ]

• Tony Acker as " Pinball Man " Q
• Michael Beebe as Murphy
• Lisa Cash as " Young Woman " Q
• John Copage as Voyager sciences officer
• Andrew English as Voyager operations officer
• Garret Sato as Voyager operations officer
• Tarik Ergin as Ayala
• Sue Henley as Brooks
• Louis Ortiz as Culhane
• James Reynolds as " Young Man " Q
• Richard Sarstedt as William McKenzie
• Lou Slaughter as Voyager command officer
• Lewis R. Stegman as Thaddius Riker (photograph only)
• John Tampoya as Kashimuro Nozawa
• Laura Tyler as " Model Type Woman " Q
• Robert Woods as " Older Black Man " Q
• Unknown dog as Bloodhound Q

References [ ]

10,000 years ago ; 1864 ; 2072 ; 24th century ; 2472 ; ability ; accusation ; amusement ; anarchy ; apple ; asylum ; Atlanta ; baryonic particles ; Battle of Pine Mountain ; behavior ; Big Bang ; bead ; bloodhound ; Bolians ; book ; Borg ; born again ; boulevard ; " captain's seat "; Christmas tree ; colonel ; comet ; corruption ; croquet ; croquet ball ; deadlock ; debtor ; debtor's prison ; Delta Quadrant ; Department of Investigation ; desert ; DNA ; double effect principle ; dozen ; Earth ; Enterprise -D, USS ; eternity ; ethics ; evidence ; expunging ; extension cord ; explorer ; Federation ; flapper ; French language ; gas pump ; general ; gesture ; Ginsberg family ; God ; Gorokian midwife toad ; grass ; hearing ; hearing room ; hide and seek ; humanoid ; Hundred Year war ; immortality ; Janeway's grandfather ; Jeep ; Johnson, Mark ; Kylerian goat ; Liverpool ; living conditions ; logic ; manifestation ; magazine ; mayor ; meadow ; merchant ; mile ; milk ; " My Corner of the Continuum "; moral implication ; murder ; murdered prostitutes ; New, The ; new era ; New York ; nicety ; night cap ; Nogatch hemlock ; Ocampa ; Old, The ; omnipotence ; orthodontist ; pants ; path ; penance ; Picard, Jean-Luc ; pinball ; pipe ; poison ; porch ; Post Office Department ; prison ; proton ; prostitutes ; puppy ; Q ; Q Continuum ; " Q Continuum Galaxy "; red ; red alert ; replicator ; rocking chair ; Romulan history ; Romulan-Vulcan War ; root beer ; sadism ; sabbath law ; sandwich ; scarecrow ( scarecrow Q ); Scarsdale ; Senate ; Sherman, William T. ; Sherman's March on Atlanta ; sidebar ; social order ; sound system ; spotlight ; spotlight operator ; Sri Lanka Boulevard ; star near rogue comet ; Starfleet uniform ; stellar cartography ; suicide ( assisted suicide , ritual suicide); suicide plan ; summer ; suspect ; ticker tape parade ; transporter room 2 ; tug of war ; universe ; Valkyrie ; Voyager , USS ; Vulcan ; Vulcan history ; Welsh rarebit ; Woodstock

External links [ ]

• "Death Wish" at StarTrek.com
• " Death Wish " at Memory Beta , the wiki for licensed Star Trek works
• " Death Wish " at Wikipedia
• " "Death Wish" " at MissionLogPodcast.com , a Roddenberry Star Trek podcast
• 3 ISS Enterprise (NCC-1701)

55 Spock Quotes For Star Trek Fans

Why Spock Quotes?

What parents should know, what to discuss with kids, best spock quotes, spock quotes about logic, funny spock quotes.

Mr. Spock is a fictional character and deuteragonist of the Star Trek franchise. The franchise began as an original television series created by Gene Roddenberry in 1966.

The series introduced several interesting characters, including Mr. Spock. He is a half-human and half-Vulcan being. Three actors portrayed the character of Spock in motion-picture productions of the franchise.

The legendary actor Leonard Nimoy first appeared as Spock in the original series. Zachary John Quinto is seen as Spock in several Star Trek films.

Ethan Peck currently appears in the role of Spock in two recent TV series from the franchise. Mr. Spock stands out because of his calm and unbothered nature, a trait of his Vulcan heritage.

Like all other Vulcans, Mr. Spock is also a rational being. He is dedicated to following logic and reason throughout his life.

The character generated a massive fanbase for the franchise, contributing to its continued popularity. This article on Mr. Spock's quotes highlights his quick-witted answers and genuine remarks. Fans of the character might enjoy revisiting some of the exciting moments of Mr. Spock.

Children can also use these quotes to stand out among friends, like Vulcans in the Star Trek universe. The article also provides a concise introduction to the character for new fans of the Star Trek universe.

• Spock's father was a Vulcan named Sarek. His mother was a human named Amanda Grayson. 
• Other family members of Spock were also introduced. He has a half-brother named Sybok and an adopted sister named Michael Burnham. 
• There are adult scenes, representation of adult themes, and the use of insensitive words in several Star Trek productions.
• An asteroid discovered on August 16, 1971, was named Mr. Spock, as a tribute to the discoverer’s cat. The original reference is from the Star Trek franchise. 
• Mr. Spock’s first name is still unknown. 
• Captain Kirk regarded Spock as his most trusted friend, appointing him as the second-in-command of the USS Enterprise Starship. 

1. "Insufficient facts always invite danger."

2. "Practical, Captain? Perhaps. But not desirable. Computers make excellent and efficient servants; but I have no wish to serve under them. Captain, a starship also runs on loyalty to one man, and nothing can replace it, or him."

3. "The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few."

4. “Not precisely, Doctor. On Vulcan the "teddy bears" are alive, and they have 6-inch fangs.”

5. "Captain, you almost make me believe in luck."

6. "Live long and prosper."

7. "It is curious how often you humans manage to obtain that which you do not want." 

8. "Every life comes to an end when time demands it. Loss of life is to be mourned but only if the life was wasted. I-Chaya's was not."

9. "I am what I am, Leila. And if there are self-made purgatories, then we all have to live in them. Mine can be no worse than someone else's."

10. "Beauty is transitory, Doctor; however, she was evidently highly intelligent." 

11. "I'm frequently appalled by the low regard you Earthmen have for life." 

12. "You Earth people glorify organized violence for 40 centuries, but you imprison those who employ it privately."

13. "Vulcans never bluff." 

14. "It is the lot of 'man' to strive no matter how content he is."

15. "Mother, how can you have lived on Vulcan so long, married a Vulcan, raised a son on Vulcan, without understanding what it means to be a Vulcan?"

16. "Virtue is a relative term."

17. "Violence in reality is quite different from theory, is it not, madam?"

18. "Evil does seem to maintain power by suppressing the truth."

19. "One can begin to reshape the landscape with a single flower, Captain."

20. “No one can guarantee the actions of another.”

21. "I have been – and always shall be – your friend."

22. "I've noticed that about your people, Doctor. You find it easier to understand the death of one than the death of a million. You speak about the objective hardness of the Vulcan heart, yet how little room there seems to be in yours."

23. "Humans smile with so little provocation." 

24. "Stonn, she is yours. After a time, you may find that having is not so pleasing a thing after all as wanting. It is not logical, but it is often true."

25. "May I say that I have not thoroughly enjoyed serving with Humans? I find their illogic and foolish emotions a constant irritant."

26. "I see no logic in wanting to worship a deity who demands you live in perpetual fear."

27. "I realize that command does have its fascination, even under circumstances such as these, but I neither enjoy the idea of command nor am I frightened of it. It simply exists, and I will do whatever logically needs to be done."

28. "Physical reality is consistent with universal laws. Where the laws do not operate, there is no reality. All of this is unreal."

29. "I object to you. I object to intellect without discipline. I object to power without constructive purpose."

30. "Change is the essential process of all existence. For instance, the people of Cheron must have once been mono-colored."

31. "Mr. Spock: My congratulations, Captain - a dazzling display of logic.

Captain Kirk: You didn't think I had it in me, did you, Spock?

Mr. Spock: [deadpan] No, sir."

32. "I fail to comprehend your indignation, sir. I have simply made the logical deduction that you are a liar."

33. "Logic is the beginning of wisdom, not the end."

34. "An ancestor of mine maintained that if you eliminated the impossible, whatever remains, however improbable, must be the truth."

35. "We disposed of emotion, Doctor. Where there is no emotion, there is no motive for violence."

36. "It is more rational to sacrifice one life than six, Doctor."

37. "It would be illogical to kill without reason. In this instance, it is for science." 

38. "I am a Vulcan, Doctor. Pain is a thing of the mind. The mind can be controlled."

39. "They are followers. Without followers, evil cannot spread."

40. "Lieutenant, I am half-Vulcanian. Vulcanians do not speculate. I speak from pure logic. If I let go of a hammer on a planet that has a positive gravity, I need not see it fall to know that it has in fact fallen."

41. "There is no reason that function should not be beautiful. In fact, beauty usually makes it more effective."

42. "Dr. McCoy: You should taste his food. Straw would taste better than his meat, and water a hundred times better than his brandy - nothing has any taste at all.

Mr. Spock: It may be unappetizing, doctor, but it is logical.

Dr. McCoy: Ah, there's that magic word again. Does your logic find this fascinating, Mr. Spock?

Mr. Spock: No, 'fascinating' is a word I use for the unexpected. In this case, I should think 'interesting' would suffice."

43. "To expect sense from two mentalities of such extreme viewpoints is not logical."

44. "Worry is a human emotion, Captain. I accept what has happened."

45. "On my planet, "to rest" is to rest, to cease using energy. To me, it is quite illogical to run up and down on green grass using energy instead of saving it."

46. "Captain Kirk: Mister Spock. Are you out of your mind? You were told to report to me at once. Mr. Spock: I didn't want to, Jim. Captain Kirk: You? Yes, I can see that."

47. "We must acknowledge once and for all that the purpose of diplomacy is to prolong a crisis."

48. "Dr. McCoy: Mr. Spock, you're the most cold-blooded man I've ever known.

Mr. Spock: Why, thank you, Doctor."

49. "Captain James T. Kirk: You'd make a splendid computer, Mr. Spock.

Mr. Spock: That is very kind of you, Captain."

50. "I'll never understand the medical mind."

51. "I have never understood the female capacity to avoid a direct answer to any question."

52. "If those peculiar signals are coming from Captain Kirk or Lieutenant Sulu, their rationality is in question."

53. "The precise meaning of the word 'desert' is a waterless, barren wasteland. I fail to understand your romantic nostalgia for such a place.”

54. "Mr. Spock: Really, Captain, my modesty...

Captain James T. Kirk: [interrupts Spock]  ... does not bear close examination, Mr. Spock. I suspect you're becoming more and more human all the time.

Mr. Spock: [surprised... a little]  You... Captain, I see no reason to stand here and be insulted."

55. "Capt. Kirk: Mr. Spock, regaining eyesight would be an emotional experience for most. You, I presume felt nothing?

Spock: Quite the contrary, Captain, I had a very strong reaction. My first sight was the face of Dr. McCoy bending over me.

Dr. McCoy: Hm, 'tis a pitty brief blindness did not increase your appreciation for beauty, Mr. Spock."

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Star Trek: Voyager

• Quinn : I was the greatest threat the Continuum had ever known. They feared me so much, they had to lock me away for eternity, and when they did that, they were saying that the individual's rights will be protected only so long as they don't conflict with the state. Nothing is so dangerous to a society.
• Captain Kathryn Janeway : Based on my research, you have been many things - a rude, interfering, inconsiderate, sadistic...
• Q : You've made your point.
• Captain Kathryn Janeway : ...pest - and, oh, yes, you introduced us to the Borg, thank you very much - but one thing you have never been is a liar.
• Q : I think you've uncovered my one redeeming virtue. Am I blushing?
• Lieutenant Tuvok : I am curious. Have the Q always had an absence of manners, or is it the result of some natural evolutionary process that comes with omnipotence?
• Quinn : I'm sorry to disappoint you, Captain, but I would only have been pretending to fit into this mortal existence. This is my final gift to my people. Oh... tell them those were my last words. I dearly thank you, for making this p... poss...
• Q : Did anyone ever tell you you're angry when you're beautiful?
• [ Quinn has made Q disappear, apparently ]
• Captain Kathryn Janeway : What did you do to him?
• Quinn : Nothing. He's still there in the 24th century. I just took the rest of us to an old hiding place of mine.
• Captain Kathryn Janeway : Report.
• Ensign Harry Kim : Captain, there are no stars outside.
• Quinn : Well, that's partially accurate. Actually, there's no universe outside.
• Captain Kathryn Janeway : On screen.
• [ seen: an explosion outside the ship ]
• Captain Kathryn Janeway : Commander?
• Cmdr. Chakotay : I'm showing a large buildup of baryonic particles.
• Quinn : Perfectly normal.
• Lieutenant Tuvok : Captain, based on our readings, it appears we've been transported back in time to the birth of the universe.
• Quinn : VERY old hiding place.
• Lieutenant B'Elanna Torres : This ship will not survive the formation of the cosmos.
• Q : Yes, but just think of the honor of having your DNA spread from one corner of the universe to the other. Why, you could be the origin of the humanoid form.
• Q : Without Q, there would have been no William T. Riker at all, and I would have lost at least a dozen really good opportunities to insult him over the years.
• [ Q has provided Quinn with poison to facilitate the latter's suicide ]
• Captain Kathryn Janeway : I imagine the Continuum won't be very happy with you, Q.
• Q : I certainly hope not.
• Quinn : And you... only live for nine years.
• Kes : That's right.
• Quinn : Oh, how I envy you.
• Kes : Why is that?
• Quinn : Because the one thing I want, more than any other... is to die.
• [ in the attempt to commit suicide, Q has accidentally made all the men on Voyager disappear ]
• Quinn : Well, that's that, I'm afraid. They're gone.
• Captain Kathryn Janeway : Gone? Where?
• Quinn : [ shrugs ] Just... gone. Oh, I apologize for the inconvenience.
• Isaac Newton : Why are you dressed like this, young man?
• Maury Ginsberg : Man, have you looked in a mirror lately?
• Q : May I see you in your chambers, Captain?
• Captain Kathryn Janeway : You've been in my chambers enough for one visit, sir.
• Q : [ on Quinn ] By demanding to end his life, he taught me a little something about my own. He was right when he said the Continuum scared me back in line. I didn't have his courage or his convictions. He called me irrepressible. This was a man who was truly irrepressible. I only hope I make a worthy student.
• Quinn : Hello. My name is Q.
• Q : Say, is this a ship of the Valkyries or have you human women finally done away with your men altogether?
• Q : Let's celebrate, just you and me - the two of us.
• Captain Kathryn Janeway : What?
• Q : I'll take you home. Before you know it, you'll be scampering across the meadow with your little puppies, the grass beneath your bare feet. A man coming over the hill, way in the distance, waves to you. You run to be in his arms, and as you get closer, you see that it's... me!
• Maury Ginsberg : God, if you let me live through this, I promise I'll clean up my act, I swear.
• Quinn : At the beginning of the new era, life as a Q was a constant dialogue of discovery and issues and humor from all over the universe, but look at them now. Listen to their dialogue now.
• Lieutenant Tuvok : I'm afraid I cannot hear any.
• Quinn : Because it has all been said. Everyone has heard everything, seen everything; they haven't had to speak to each other in ten millennia. There's nothing left to say.
• Q : I call myself to the stand.
• [ clicks fingers and a duplicate of himself appears in the chair before him ]
• Q : [ from the chair ] Ta-da!
• Q : [ to himself ] Thank you for coming. It's a rare honor to have someone of your reputation and accomplishment with us today.
• Q : [ from the chair ] Thank you.
• [ Q-uinn has set the lunch table for Janeway ]
• Quinn : Look, Welsh rabbit, like your grandfather used to make.
• Neelix : [ to Kes ] Rabbit? She never told me she likes rabbits. What is a rabbit anyway? Is this some new chef she's interviewing?
• Q : Well, I guess that's what we get for having a woman in the captain's seat.
• [ Janeway, Tuvok and the Qs have transported to the Continuum, represented by a roadhouse on a desert road ]
• Lieutenant Tuvok : Then what is the purpose of the road?
• Quinn : The road... takes us to the rest of the universe, then it leads back here. An endless circle.
• Captain Kathryn Janeway : This was your existence before your confinement?
• Quinn : I traveled the road many times, sat on the porch, played the games, been the dog, everything. I was even the scarecrow for a while.
• Captain Kathryn Janeway : Why?
• Quinn : Because I hadn't done it.
• Q : [ times two ] Vulcans!
• Quinn : You mustn't think of us as omnipotent, no matter what The Continuum would like you to believe. You and your ship seem incredibly powerful to life-forms without your technical expertise. It's no different with us. We may appear omnipotent to you but, believe me, we're not.
• Quinn : In a way, our vulnerability is what this is all about. As the Q have evolved, we've sacrificed many things along the way, not just manners but mortality and a sense of purpose and a desire for change and a capacity to grow. Each loss is a new vulnerability, wouldn't you say?
• Quinn : [ about the Q ] They don't dare feel sad. If only they could, that would be progress.
• Q : Oh, the philosopher speaks.
• Quinn : You want me to prove to you that I suffer in terms that you can equate with pain or disease. Look at us. When life has become futile, meaningless, unendurable, it must be allowed to end. Can't you see, Captain? For us, the disease is immortality.
• Captain Kathryn Janeway : Q - EITHER Q - get us out of here!
• Quinn : You see, Captain, Q rebelled against this existence by refusing to behave himself. He was out of control. He used his powers irresponsibly and all for his own amusement, and he desperately needed amusement because he could find none here at home.
• Q : Ready or not, here I am.
• Q : Facial art. Ooo, how very wilderness of you.
• [ Janeway suggests a hearing ]
• Q : A hearing? You would have me put his future into your delicate little hands? Oh!... so touchably soft. What is your secret, dear?
• Q : You could live a perfectly normal life if you were simply willing to live a perfectly normal life.
• Q : All right, I accept on behalf of the Continuum on one condition - if you rule in our favor, Q agrees to return to his confinement.
• Quinn : I have a condition of my own. If you rule in MY favor, then the Continuum must grant me mortality.
• Q : Why? So you can kill yourself?
• Quinn : Exactly.
• Q : Accepted.
• [ to Janeway ]
• Q : Well, this is going to make for an amusing diversion: Will you send him to prison for eternity or will you assist in his suicide plan? That's a toughie - but then again that's why they made you captain, isn't it, to handle the real tough ones? My, my. Now I guess we get to find out whether the pants...
• [ checks out Janeway's bottom ]
• Q : ... really fit.
• Quinn : Captain, you're an explorer. What if you had nothing left to explore? Would you want to live forever under those circumstances?
• Captain Kathryn Janeway : Now a what?
• Lt. Tom Paris : Checking. We seem to be tethered to some sort of... plant.
• [ sees a narrow image ]
• Captain Kathryn Janeway : Computer, I need a wider angle.
• [ Q picks up Voyager like it was an ornament ]
• Q : [ Q appears on screen ] You can't hide from me Q.
• Quinn : And you can't take me by force. I'll stalemate you for eternity if I have to!

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Published Feb 15, 2022

How Tapestry Helped Me Grieve the Death of My Father

We all need to be reminded sometimes, about the importance of living as our most authentic and fullest selves.

StarTrek.com

Content Warning: This essay deals with issues of addiction.

This past year has forced the entire globe to profoundly consider the fragility of life. With compounding disasters of a pandemic, economic collapse, systemic and deadly racism, and the growing climate crisis, most of us have had to confront the question of our own mortality more than once in the last year. I was no exception to this when I received a call last Fall that my father had unexpectedly died.

The last time I had seen my dad was in 2007 at my high school graduation. Despite how close we were in my childhood, my father, like so many of our loved ones in this country, had his mind, body, and soul hijacked by addiction and mental illness that tore my family apart at the seams. It was devastating to see my dad, someone so hilarious and intelligent, spiral into an erratic, paranoid, and close-minded person. Addiction is a cruel disease, and our relationship would never recover from it.

My father was born in 1956, making him the perfect age when a groundbreaking new TV show came on the air in 1966: Star Trek: The Original Series . My dad was captivated, and it would stoke the fires of a lifelong love affair with science fiction. When I was born in 1988, he couldn’t wait to share the newest Star Trek show with me the moment I was old enough: The Next Generation . My best and earliest memories are of us lounging on the couch, watching and dissecting episodes together.

While our relationship had already suffered from a figurative type of death during my dad’s life, it’s another thing entirely when someone actually dies. I realized that all of the questions I had for him would never be answered, and that I would never get closure on many things. I was carrying a lot of guilt over how estranged we were in my adulthood. So, like any self-respecting daughter of a Trekkie would do, I immediately began to rewatch TNG for the millionth time as I processed my grief.

When I arrived at the episode “Tapestry,” it had been a while since I had viewed it. After the credits rolled, I was left with tears streaming down my cheeks. Rarely do shows handle death and the meaning of a well-lived life with such grace and delicacy. Its lessons resonated with me deeply and brought me such a sense of peace as I reflected on my dad’s life.

As I watched the episode I realized that, as a child, I had always viewed my father through the lens of Captain Picard. In my mind, his character has always been the archetype of a good man. Like Picard, my father was strong, sensitive, thoughtful, an avid gardener, and the only thing he ever truly wanted was to be left alone to read his book in the sun. I idolized my dad, which made it all the more difficult when the pedestal I held him on came tumbling down.

When “Tapestry” first aired, we finally pulled off Picard’s mask and explored his soul. Through the course of the show, we had only been given small nuggets of information about what Picard was like before he came to the Enterprise . Up until “Tapestry,” most of us couldn’t have imagined our stoic Captain as a brash, impulsive youth. He wasn’t always the perfectly buttoned-up, even-tempered character we’d grown accustomed to. We saw an arrogant and undisciplined Picard, a person willing to cheat and rig a dom-jot table to defend his friend, a cocky and shallow womanizer. It’s a critical reminder that we should never judge a book by its cover, because we all contain multitudes, and none of us are flawless. All of us are defined by the things others cannot see.

“Tapestry” is consistently ranked one of the best episodes of TNG, and it’s not hard to see why. With the powerhouse duo of Patrick Stewart and John de Lancie stealing the scenes with their incredible chemistry, it’s a testament to how this show is always at its best without all the frills of transporter beams and technology. Because at the end of the day, Star Trek is about more than just discovering strange new worlds and seeking out new life and civilizations. It’s also about exploring the strange worlds that exist within ourselves. It’s about what it means to be human, and what it means to understand and accept each other, despite our differences.

At the end of his life, my father didn’t have a resume filled with accomplishments. He never achieved any kind of greatness in the traditional sense. He worked as a general laborer most of his life: a carpenter, a boat builder, and a caregiver. Part of me wonders, though, if the demons that plagued him in his later years were because he lived a lot like the Picard who was simply a Lieutenant Junior Grade in the Astrophysics department. My dad played it safe, drifted through his life, and didn’t take a whole lot of risks.

That might be the biggest takeaway from “Tapestry”— one must seize the opportunities that are presented to them. Every single moment is important and plays an integral role in the larger scheme of our lives. And we only become the people we are meant to be by living as our truest, most authentic selves and accepting even the messiest parts that we would rather forget. I think my father forgot how to cradle the darkest parts of himself with love and compassion and instead allowed shame to take root in his regrets. He couldn’t forgive himself for being a fallible human.

But just because my dad left this world with a mile-long list of mistakes and without any impressive career accolades doesn’t mean his life didn’t matter or was any less meaningful. He was so much more than the sum of his lesser parts, just like Picard, just like all of us are. He was the entire galaxy manifested as an imperfect person. Our untidy parts are what makes us human; it’s what lets us know we are alive. We aren’t fully living if we aren’t failing or taking missteps. If I tried to tug on the loose threads of my own life’s tapestry, where the most vibrant threads were woven in by my father, then my whole world would unravel too.

I’ll take those untidy parts a thousand times over if it means that I also get to keep the good parts. And if Q gave me a second chance to go back, I wouldn’t change a thing. I think my dad would say the same. Even his worst mistakes served a purpose in his life, as they did in mine, and I know that I am so proud of the person I am today because of them. I hope that when he took his last breath, he was laughing with that same wild, reckless abandon that Picard did when the Nausicaan stabbed him in the heart. As Q said, life and death are not such static and rigid concepts. Now my father guides me from a place tucked between the planets and the stars. I hope he loves the view up there.

Nicole Zub (she/her) is a lifelong Star Trek fan and freelance writer based in Kentucky. She is always dreaming about a place far beyond the stars. You can find her on Twitter @zubmarine4.

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David Ajala Explains Star Trek: Discovery Seemingly Ending Cleveland Booker's Story In Season 4, And Why He’s Glad He Returned For Season 5

This worked out really well for all involved.

Watching Star Trek: Discovery 's final season, I find it hard to imagine what it'd look like without David Ajala's Cleveland Booker in the mix. Fans were delighted to see him return in early trailers, to the point where Sonequa Martin-Green was surprised by his reveal , given what happened to the character in Disco 's Season 4 ending . I was just as baffled at the time, but the actor was fortunately able to set the record straight on Book's return, and why he's glad it all worked out.

David Ajala was kind enough to speak to CinemaBlend ahead of another Booker-heavy episode that'll make this month's Paramount+ subscription cost worth it. I mentioned how heavily his character's story has been incorporated into Season 5, and asked why Star Trek: Discovery seemingly wrote him off back when he was sent to help refugees as penance for his betrayal of the Federation. Ajala cleared up the situation, recalling both Booker's fake-out death in the finale and his eventual punishment that sent him away from the ship:

It's funny because I remember reading the [Season 4 finale] episode and thinking, ‘Oh, so Cleveland Booker is out of here,' and then, you know, seeing the reveal. It was fun because it was such a superb dramatic beat. But I was only meant to be on the show for two seasons, Seasons 3 and 4. As fate would have it, the stars aligned, and the producers and powers that be wanted to flesh out Cleveland Booker's story a little more and gave me the invitation to come back, which I graciously accepted.

There were no guarantees that David Ajala would remain with Star Trek: Discovery after his contract was up, so it seems that story decision was landed on as a way to offer wiggle room to the writers to explain away his absence had the actor not been available to return. Fortunately, it all worked out, and while we don't know exactly when the decisions were made, Ajala confirmed to CinemaBlend in December of 2022 that he would appear in Season 5. Suffice it to say, this fan was not shocked to see him in the trailers.

As is widely reported at this point, no one involved in Star Trek: Discovery knew Season 5 would be the final outing when it was in production, so it's a blessing David Ajala did agree to return for another season. The actor continued, sharing why he's been so grateful for this additional story, and how it benefitted the character of Cleveland Booker overall.

And I'm so happy that my ‘yes’ was yes because we've been really able to dig into a much more well-rounded individual. Not perfect, well-rounded. Whose strengths and weaknesses have been so publicly displayed, and whose fall from grace has been so publicly displayed. I think it shows great character with his leaving Booker because he's able to bounce back and still be of service to many people.

Star Trek: Discovery fans still have more to see from Cleveland Booker, and at least some confirmation from star Sonequa Martin-Green that we'll get a sense of where he and Michael stand . David Ajala also teased to CinemaBlend that he's very excited for fans to see a particular scene , and I'm really curious if it involves Booker and the lead of Discovery .

The top brass shared the reality of doing a modern Star Trek show.

I'm hoping to see as much of Cleveland Booker as I possibly can, knowing that there may not be much room for him on Star Trek television in the future. Unless Book joins Starfleet, I don't really see him appearing on upcoming Trek shows like Starfleet Academy , which is also set in the 32nd century. Stranger things have happened, however, and it's hard to believe that at least one or two stars from Discovery series won't be a part of this in-development spinoff.

As for what's coming for Cleveland Booker in the immediate future, it seemed he managed to gain some headway with rival courier Moll, who is the daughter of his mentor, the original Cleveland Booker. Perhaps she and L'ak can ultimately be shifted into allies, rather than enemies who intend to hand a dangerous technology to the Breen in exchange for their freedom. Hopefully, he can convince them to work with Starfleet before it's too late.

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Star Trek: Discovery continues its final season on Paramount+ with new episodes on Thursdays. Don't miss the back half of this season, as the action is only sure to heat up as we head to that big finish filmed after the show was canceled.

Mick Joest is a Content Producer for CinemaBlend with his hand in an eclectic mix of television goodness. Star Trek is his main jam, but he also regularly reports on happenings in the world of Star Trek, WWE, Doctor Who, 90 Day Fiancé, Quantum Leap, and Big Brother. He graduated from the University of Southern Indiana with a degree in Journalism and a minor in Radio and Television. He's great at hosting panels and appearing on podcasts if given the chance as well.

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Kirstie Alley Casually Laughed About Her Parents Being Dressed As A “Black Girl” And “Ku Klux Klan Member” In The Car Crash That Killed Her Mom, And People Are In Genuine Shock

“This has just been rocking me since I watched it this morning like nothing could have prepared me actually,” one person tweeted in response to the viral video.

BuzzFeed Staff

It’s not often that something doing the rounds on X, formerly known as Twitter, receives a pretty universal reaction from other users, but a resurfaced interview with the late actor Kirstie Alley has done exactly that.

The clip was from a 1996 interview on NBC’s Barbara Walters Special and showed Kirstie — then 45 — open up about her mom Lillian Alley’s tragic death.

Lillian was just 59 years old when she died in a car crash in 1981, with Kirstie’s father, Robert Alley, suffering serious injuries in the collision. 

In the interview, Kirstie explained that she had only recently moved to Los Angeles when the accident happened and was preparing for the final audition for her role of Lt. Saavik in Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan when her sister Colette called to tell her that their parents had been in a fatal crash. 

Kirstie then recalled the conversation that she had with her sister in the hospital waiting room in a clip that X user Kristi Yamaguccimane posted this week alongside the caption: “I could give you 1,000 tries to guess how Kirstie Alley’s parents were dressed when they died in a car accident and you wouldn’t get it right.”

In the video, Kirstie says: “I got there, we were all sitting in the waiting room and we were sobbing. And as I’m crying, my sister’s here and I wasn’t looking at her, but I said: ‘Where were they going?’ and she said: ‘To a Halloween party.’”

“And I said: ‘What were they dressed as?’ — why would you ask this! — and she said: ‘ The Odd Couple ,’” Kirstie continues, referencing a 1968 movie. “And I said: ‘Oh,’ and I’m thinking: What Odd Couple? Walter Matthau and Jack Lemmon? ”

“‘Well, what were their costumes exactly?’ and she said: ‘Mom was a Black girl and Dad was a Ku Klux Klan member,’” Kirstie then reveals, bursting into laughter. “I was laughing, and the whole family — I guess they heard this conversation — and we all started laughing, and it was the greatest tribute we could give my mother.”

Needless to say, social media users have been left totally shocked by the clip, with the original tweet instantly going viral. At the time of writing, it has been viewed almost 8 million times and has racked up thousands of likes and retweets.

This has just been rocking me since I watched it this morning like nothing could have prepared me actually https://t.co/x2sKBzWeVc — Bolu Babalola is technically on leave 🍯&🌶 (@BeeBabs) April 24, 2024

One popular quote-tweet reads : “This has just been rocking me since I watched it this morning like nothing could have prepared me actually.” Somebody else wrote : “I’m honestly in shock fhdjdjcjxkdj now what on EARTH.”

One more picked up on the final detail of the anecdote, tweeting : “‘It was the greatest tribute you could give my mother’ WHATTTT.”

Kirstie previously recalled this story in her 2005 memoir, How to Lose Your Ass and Regain Your Life , where she also added: “I wish sometimes that the woman that killed my mother that night...had known about my mother's costume, because maybe she, too, would know that my mother was a pretty funny person.”

Kirstie died from colon cancer in 2022, aged 71. She was best known for her Golden Globe and Emmy-winning performance in the iconic sitcom Cheers,  as well as movies like Look Who’s Talking and Drop Dead Gorgeous . 

Topics in this article

• Kirstie Alley