A Serious Man2009

Larry Gopnik:
So, uh, what can I do for you?

Clive Park:
Uh, Dr. Gopnik, I believe the results of physics mid-term were unjust.

Larry Gopnik:
Uh-huh, how so?

Clive Park:
I received an unsatisfactory grade. In fact: F, the failing grade.

Larry Gopnik:
Uh, yes. You failed the mid-term. That's accurate.

Clive Park:
Yes, but this is not just. I was unaware to be examined on the mathematics.

Larry Gopnik:
Well, you can't do physics without mathematics, really, can you?

Clive Park:
If I receive failing grade I lose my scholarship, and feel shame. I understand the physics. I understand the dead cat.

Larry Gopnik:
You understand the dead cat? But... you... you can't really understand the physics without understanding the math. The math tells how it really works. That's the real thing; the stories I give you in class are just illustrative; they're like, fables, say, to help give you a picture. An imperfect model. I mean - even I don't understand the dead cat. The math is how it really works.

Clive Park:
Very difficult... very difficult...

Larry Gopnik:
Well, I... I'm sorry, but I... what do you propose?

Clive Park:
Passing grade.

Larry Gopnik:
No no, I...

Clive Park:
Or perhaps I can take the mid-term again. Now I know it covers mathematics.

Larry Gopnik:
Well, the other students wouldn't like that, would they, if one student gets to retake the test till he gets a grade he likes?

Clive Park:
Secret test.

Larry Gopnik:
No, I'm afraid...

Clive Park:
Hush-hush.

Larry Gopnik:
No, that's just not workable. I'm afraid we'll just have to bite the bullet on this thing, Clive, and...

Clive Park:
Very troubling... very troubling...