Date: 28 May 2014 15:00 Title: Entire Story
Well a Guinan POV TNG (ST: Generations aftermath) story is indeed different.
I think it was a very good idea of having Spock and Picard side by side and highlighting that Picard has being there for both characters when they most needed someone.
You start with a powerful opening line as Guinan blames herself for Kirk’s Death not completely but the key factor.
The next two paragraphs seem to be a little cryptic at first like Guinan but once you stop to think about them you find all the hidden depths so it a good way to reward the repeater reader and reveal more about Guinan.
I presume the spirit of Chaos and the bargain to save her race is a cross reference to Q and the Borg assimilation of her people.
Was interesting that you allow Guinan to still hate him if not blame him for his nature.
It is another Interesting idea that in her grief that Guinan summon the Nexus wave to hide in the world of illusion rather than the world that is. Then you do highlight the strength of Picard and Kirk to turn down their illusions and save others and how Guinan admits to originally lacking that strength because of the Borg’s actions.
I also like the touch of having Guinan hearing Spock’s pain as he speaks words over his friends’ grave, and the line “I can always hear the pain in what people say, even when they say nothing. I can never stop listening for that” is a strong line that cuts to the core of the character as I remember her from TNG, and feel natural in the story and not forced.
Then you have an interesting conversation between Spock and Guinan where both show their wisdom and ability to pick up the unsaid word.
Guinan confess about summoning the Nexus and her part in Soran eventual madness was well handled and so was Spock logic for forgive her on both his and Jim behalf.
This had a strong ending that felt true to both characters and the penultimate and final paragraph are both line ending sentiments and give this story an open conclusion but at least allow Guinan a little closure.
Well Done.
Date: 16 Oct 2012 07:56 Title: Entire Story
I love the look at Spock through a window character. He is so compassionate without being showy about it, and his reserve is what makes it so moving. Well done.
Date: 28 Jun 2009 19:38 Title: Entire Story
Oh excellent. A fascinating tale, especially after reading the previous story. The complexity and capability of Guinan is increasingly intriguing as we explore and learn more. I also worried that any adventures that attempted to deal too much with her past and gifts would detract from her mystery. It has to be said though, that this is not the case with your stories. She remains an enigma and stranger still for learning a glimmer of the power she weilds - whether in part over Q or in calling the Nexus. All quite shocking and enthralling.
I should add that I love Spock's evaluation and how he handles the knowledge. And it is striking that he asks Guinan to join his Reform. I wouldn't see it as a fit for Guinan but the possibilities are myriad and mind joggling.
It is also somewhat scary how Guinan tells Spock not to inform Picard of her powers as she adds a dire warning. That is scary and ominous. Very, very dark and ominous.
Great stuff.
Date: 24 Feb 2009 21:14 Title: Entire Story
Very well done...I don't know why I waited so long to read this!
Guinan is a character that even in most fanfic seems to be left an enigma, but this, coupled with "Chameleon and Mirror," really goes a long way towards explaining why. That level of guilt--and to carry it for that long--is hard to imagine; it's a wonder she doesn't envy the other races of the galaxy their mayfly lifespans, because in a life as long as those the El-Aurians live, I imagine it would be very easy to become entrenched in mental patterns to a degree that even humans rarely manage.
I've also loved your explanation of Guinan's abilities and what exactly it means to be a Listener.
But beyond that...you've also got a very touching scene and a good analysis of Kirk's death. I still see that death debated a lot on the TrekBBS and I think you really resolve the debate: it may not have been the way one would "expect" him to die (i.e. a falling bridge rather than going down with the ship, or from the blow of an enemy), but it was still, in the end, very fitting and noble.
You've woven Guinan, Kirk, Picard, the Borg, and Q/Ananke into an amazing tapestry through these two stories. Good work!
Date: 24 Feb 2009 06:51 Title: Entire Story
I have maintained, and always will, that GENERATIONS is the best TNG film. It has so many quotable lines, and Shatner is great in it.
Your story here is quite interesting. Picard, Guinan and Spock make for an interesting historic TREK trio. And you sprinkle their gathering with a new twist; Guinan's involvement with the Nexus isn't so cut and dry now...
I do not think I would have been as forgiving as Spock was, especially because it happened twice. But he was right, Kirk died how he would have wanted. Not on the bridge fighting the klingons one more time, no way; that would have been predictable.
But now, now, we have spock asking for her help to aide his cause on Romulas. I can't imagine Guinan among Romulans. They are such polar opposites.
I hope you continued this little fork in the road for Guinan and Spock....great start here!!!
Rob
[Report This]Date: 06 Feb 2009 18:50 Title: Entire Story
An interesting and thoughtful piece. You capture Guinan's philosophical bent admirably.
Date: 03 Feb 2009 22:35 Title: Entire Story
This is a truly unusual perspective of the events in Generations. You provide here a profound look into Guinan's soul, which feels unnervingly real.
A very solid piece. Thank you for sharing.
Date: 03 Feb 2009 20:46 Title: Entire Story
Another great story. delving into this character further and providing a look into her mind and soul.
Another piece of great work.
Date: 03 Feb 2009 00:00 Title: Entire Story
I find your take on Guinan truly wonderful and refreshing...these are excellent tales!