In the scene between Q and Jean-Luc Picard, Q delivers an amazingly stirring monologue about the importance of one person, saying “Must it always have galactic import? Universal stakes? Celestial upheaval? Isn’t one life enough?” This line is an impressive reminder that sometimes, saving a single individual can be just as important as saving a galaxy.
In this moment, we see a different side of Q - one that is vulnerable and sincere. Or was that his true side all along? The scene impresses the deep friendship between Q and Jean-Luc, as Q reveals his true motivation - to heal Jean-Luc’s heart.
Overall, this scene is such a beautiful and touching moment that adds even more depth to these two already well-developed characters. It reminds me of the power of friendship and the importance of valuing individual lives.
"Humans. Your griefs, your pains, fix you to moments in the past long gone. You’re like butterflies with your wings pinned”. There is so much food for thought in this piece of wisdom alone. Every sentence in this scene has its place, has meaning beyond the words expressing it. Note also the stunning, subtle yet powerful soundtrack.
This scene and the one to follow is so well paced and delivered by John de Lancie and Patrick Stewart, it will stick with me for many years to come. I have rewatched it over and over. It alone makes the entire 3rd season worthwhile.
May we all remember to say this to someome from our heart. Almost nothing means more than that:
“You matter to me.”
Q was great in Picard… but his motivations and personality are just so unlike what they were in TNG.
Were they? Granted, it wasn’t always about helping Picard, but often it was. In “Q Who”, for example, Q teaches Picard humility and prepares him for something greater. In “Tapestry”, Q teaches Picard the importance of his past and how even our mistakes shape who we are. In “All Good Things…”, Q stands by Picard’s side to save humanity. To name just three.
Not that Picard was always Q’s focus, but often he was. He was certainly a tough friend with his own unique methods. But I like to think that only now does Jean-Luc - and I - understand that Q did much of what he did out of a sense of concern for humanity, and Picard in particular.
Either way, it is a beautiful scene that will stand the test of time for a long time to come.
Q changed over the series of TNG and evolved further during his appearances on Voyager. Yet he remains ultimately inscrutable in his true motivations.