EVERYMAN
adapted & directed by
Cara Reichel
a Prospect Theater Company production
originally staged at
The Grove Street Playhouse
March 10-14, 1999
Draft: February 6, 1999
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Scene 1
As the audience enters, music plays. The musicians
are seated SR, and a replica of a modern, New York
streetlight illuminates their area.
The stage is bare, save for a drafting table and stool,
center stage. On the three sides of the set are drops
of unbleached canvas, pulled taut, like blank pieces
of paper waiting to be written on. Between the
drops, USR, USL, and USC, are spaces through
which the actors enter and exit, and through which
rolling set pieces are brought on as needed.
The bare, white "walls" of the set can be colored
through the use of lighting, to convey various
moods. When the show opens, they are deep blue,
like the heavens. Smoke, like clouds, hovers about,
obscuring the stage floor.
Above the stage is an array of small lights, the
pinpricks of stars. Hanging from the ceiling by
strings are the planets—represented by apples of
different sizes and colors. The earth is a luscious,
bright red one—the most beautiful and alluring.
Hanging center stage is a small version of a disco
ball, the sun of our galaxy (not yet turning, time has
not yet begun).
The house lights dim, and the MESSENGER enters
and stands to one side of the stage with the
musicians.
MESSENGER
(over music)
Here begins a treatise: on how the High Father of Heaven sends Death to Summon every
creature to come and give an account of their lives in this world. It is in the manner of a
moral play.
(The MESSENGER gestures toward the stage—at the word
"play" the lighting & music change. GOD enters, USC.
He is an artist, a craftsman, dressed simply in clothes of a
non-discriminate period, a bit disheveled. He has been up
all night working—and looks as if he doesn't pay much
attention to his appearance. After all, who is there to see
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him? Over one shoulder, he carries a bag with blue prints,
sketchbooks, and other artist's tools—reminiscent of
Leonardo DaVinci. He is genuinely fascinated by his
creation, and studies it intently as he stands in its midst.
He speaks distractedly as he unrolls his papers, making
adjustments on his sketches.)
GOD
I am Alpha and Omega.
The life. The way. The truth. The first and the last.
I am gracious and great, God without beginning.
I am maker unmade—all might is in me.
I am first and foremost. As I bid, it shall be!
(GOD reaches out and spins the disco ball. He has set the
universe in motion. The lights spin across the walls.
GOD watches, he is pleased with the effect.)
MESSENGER
(sings)
IN HEAVEN ARE ANGELS
FAIR AND BRIGHT
THE STARS AND THE PLANETS
IN THEIR COURSES GO
THE SUN SERVES THE DAY
AND THE MOON, THE NIGHT...
AND THE LONELY EARTH SPINS
ROUND AND ROUND
SO BEAUTIFUL TO SEE
THE ENDLESS COLORS
LIKE PRISMS CATCHING LIGHT
AND GOD THINKS:
THERE IS NO ONE TO LOVE IT BUT ME
GOD
(GOD considers his options. He pulls from his knapsack a
ball of wet clay and places it on the floor, DSL. As he
speaks, he begins to work the clay.)
To keep this world, both more and less, I will make a skillful beast. After my shape...
and my likeness... Both wise and witty shall it be.
The body lies in the clay. Of the simplest part of earth that is here, I shall make...
(He thinks a moment, creating a new name.)
Man.
(He looks at his muddy hands.)
Of the simplest part of earth—and for this reason:
So I will have in mind how simple he is, from his very making.
For as feeble shall I find him when he is... dead (another new word), at his ending.
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(ADAM has appeared USR, shirtless and dimly lit. He
stands limply, folded over at the waist, not yet alive.)
Rise up, you earth, in blood and bone,
in shape of man, I command you!
(The clay has now taken the rough shape of a man. GOD
blows in the direction of ADAM and, gently, life begins.)
MESSENGER
EVERYMAN WAKES
EVERYMAN BEGINS TO DREAM
EVERYMAN SEES EV'RYTHING
ADAM
(Looking around in wonder with his new eyes.)
Ah, Lord. Here is a joyful sight—to see this world so long and wide!
GOD
(GOD considers his new creature. They regard each
other.)
Love me for my making—I ask no more.
As man, that I have made of nothing, I grant you lordship on earth. All things that are
made will serve you. You shall not lack any earthly thing. You shall know good... and
evil. I shall teach you to lead your life.
With heaven and earth I first began—and worked six days without rest. My work is
ended now... with man. All pleases me well, but this the best. You have my blessing,
ever and always. This seventh day shall be my rest... so will I cease from my work.
(GOD exits. ADAM stands for a moment, looking around
at his new home. He walks up and closely examines the
earth, hanging from its string, slightly above his head. He
reaches up, and plucks it. The music changes slightly—
GOD's creation has been disturbed. The stage begins to
change around ADAM as the other actors enter silently.
ADAM continues with the apple, curious.
Finally, he takes a bite. Immediately, the peaceful heavens
around him disappear as the actors rapidly change the set.
The lights go red, the music changes to an alarm. The
other actors tear down the heavens. The MESSENGER
sings: ITE, MALEDICTI, IN IGNEM ETERNUM.
"Depart, ye cursed, into everlasting fire."
The taste of the apple is bitter. ADAM is confused. He
quickly drops the apple on the corner of the drafting table
and backs away from it, frightened. Then he turns and
bolts.)
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Scene 2
Thousands of years later on the streets of New
York, a Friday morning. On stage, we see a
miniature of Manhattan. Later, workers will cluster
around it—building, sculpting.
The chaos of movement onstage has died down.
The sound of the alarm is now the incessant
beeping of EVERYMAN's alarm clock as he rolls
out of bed in his Manhattan apartment and heads off
for another day of work.
We can see EVERYMAN has been out late the
night before. He has a hangover and the alarm isn't
helping. His apartment is messy—a few beer
bottles. Newspapers. An un-watered plant.
EVERYMAN gets dressed to go to work. He
shaves with an electric razor. Puts on a crisp white
shirt, business suit, and the mandatory tie... it is red.
MESSENGER
EVERYMAN WAKES
EVERYMAN BEGINS TO DREAM
EVERYMAN SEES EV'RYTHING
WILL HE SING...
OR SCREAM?
ANOTHER DAY BREAKS
ANOTHER SIMPLE TURN OF TIME
ANOTHER CHANCE FOR MAN TO FALL...
OR CLIMB.
(The music changes... it is faster paced now, the speed of a
city morning. We hear the noises of traffic. EVERYMAN
walks out into the world. The MESSENGER speaks over
the music and bustle on stage.)
I pray you all, give audience—and hear this matter with reverence, by figure a moral play.
It is called THE SUMMONING OF EVERYMAN—that of our lives and endings shows
how transitory we be all day.
This matter is wondrous precious, but the intent of it is more gracious, and sweet to bear
away. The story says: Man, in the beginning, look well, and take good heed of the
ending. You think sin in the beginning full sweet, which in the end causes the soul to
weep, when the body lies in the clay.
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(Throughout the above speech, EVERYMAN makes his
way through the crowded city streets. He is energetic and
his stride is confident on his way to work. On the way out
the door of his apartment, he picks up the apple, tosses it
once in the air, and takes a bite. It is his breakfast as he
hurries to get to the office on time.
EVERYMAN takes the subway. As he enters the train
station, he passes a homeless beggar, played by the same
actor who later is GOOD DEEDS, and drops a handful of
change in the man’s tin can. He passes by a street vendor,
played by the same actor who is later GOODS, selling fake
Rolexes on a folding table on the sidewalk.
He makes his way through numerous other business-suited
men on their way to work. As he enters the office, he
shakes hands with a co-worker at the office water-cooler,
played by the actor who will later portray FELLOWSHIP.
There is an insincere, ritual feel to their greeting. The
actor who will later portray CONFESSION is a simple
janitor, emptying the trash cans. EVERYMAN makes his
way to the drafting table, his desk, unpacks his briefcase,
and sits down to work.
EVERYMAN’s office should convey the sense of a welloiled, impersonal machine. Everyone does one motion,
over and over again. Someone staples a stack of papers
and then pulls the staples out again. Everyone is very busy
but no one really accomplishes anything.)
Here shall you see how Fellowship and Jollity, both Strength, Pleasure, and Beauty,
will fade from you as a flower in May-- for you shall hear how our Heavenly King calls
Everyman to a general reckoning.
(EVERYMAN's cell phone rings, he answers it, goes busily
about his work at the desk.)
Give audience, and hear what God does say:
(Mood change, as if the world is suddenly submerged in
deep water. People on stage continue their work in slow
motion. EVERYMAN sits at the drafting table, the halfeaten apple sitting in its corner.
Upstage, we see doctors in lab coats clustered around the
miniature of Manhattan, like a patient on an operating
table. With various sharp looking utensils, they
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manipulate the puzzle pieces of the city. We hear the
noises of a hospital—the beep of a heart monitor softly in
the background.
GOD appears DSR. He is sitting on a stool in his artist’s
studio, looking out the window on the world. A light
shines through the window and illuminates him as he
beholds his creation.)
GOD
I perceive, here in my majesty, how all creatures are unkind to me, and live without
dread in worldly prosperity. The people are so blind! Drowned in sin, they know me not
for their God. Their minds are all on worldly riches. They do not fear the sharp rod of my
righteousness.
(GOD walks among the people.)
They have forgotten my law, that I showed when I died for them. They have forgotten
the shedding of my blood red. It cannot be denied that I hanged between two—to give
them life I suffered and died. I healed their feet—with thorns hurt was my head. I could
do no more than I did, truly!
(GOD opens his palms and smears them with red paint, like
blood.)
And now I see... the people do forsake me. They use the seven damnable deadly sins!
Pride, covetise, wrath and lechery are now made commendable in the world, and thus
they leave angels as the only heavenly company.
(GOD stands over EVERYMAN’s desk. He picks up the
morning newspaper and reads it, appalled by the
headlines.)
Every man lives after his own pleasure. And yet… they may be sure of nothing in their
lives. But the more that I am patient with them, the worse they grow from year to year.
All that lives degenerates fast.
(The doctors hovered upstage, around Manhattan, have
begun to feed on one of their own. They pull out his liver
and share it amongst themselves. Their hands and mouths
are red with blood like beasts.)
Therefore I will, in all haste, have a reckoning of every man's person—for, if I leave the
people alone in their life and wicked tempests, they will become much worse than
beasts—and devour each other with envy. They forget charity.
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(The lights dim to darkness and we see EVERYMAN,
diligently making photocopies. The audience can see that
on each page is a picture of a black and white apple, every
one the same as the next. EVERYMAN’s face is
illuminated by the rhythmic blue glow of the xerox
machine. We can hear his heart beat. He takes his copies
and stacks them efficiently.
For a moment, every man looks at the picture of the apple.
He is vaguely unsatisfied with something about it, but
can’t figure out what it is. He takes a permanent red
marker from his desk and begins to color the apple,
staying precisely within the lines. GOD watches him,
hopeful, but after a few moments, EVERYMAN laughs
nervously, shrugs, wads the paper up and throws it into the
trash can. GOD is distraught… this clinches his decision.)
I hoped well that every man should make his mansion in my glory, and so I made them all
elect. But now I see, like abject traitors, they do not thank me for the pleasure that I
meant for them, nor for their being—that I have lent to them!
(The lights slowly emerge again into a more realistic, office
setting. EVERYMAN sees his coworkers coming and
quickly shoves his stack of papers into his briefcase,
preparing to leave the office at the end of the work day.)
I offered the people a great multitude of mercy, but there are few who ask for it heartily.
They are so cumbered with worldly riches that I must do justice to them, on every man
living without fear!
(The world freezes and God’s voice echoes into silence.)
Where are you, Death, you mighty messenger?
(DEATH enters. He is dressed to resemble a secret-service
messenger. His hair is slick, he wears dark glasses and a
black suit. A wire hearing device protrudes from his ear.)
DEATH
Almighty God, I am here at your will, to fulfill your commandment.
GOD
Go to Everyman, and show him, in my name, that he must take a pilgrimage, which he
can in no way escape. Tell him that he must bring with him a sure reckoning, without
delay or any tarrying.
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(GOD hands DEATH an envelope to give to
EVERYMAN.)
DEATH
Lord, I will run overall in the world, and cruelly search out both great and small. I will
beset every man that lives beastly, out of God's laws, and does not dread folly. He that
loves riches I will strike with my dart, to blind his sight, and part him from heaven—
except that alms be his good friend—in hell for to dwell, world without end.
Scene 3
(Motion resumes on stage. EVERYMAN leaves his office
and begins to go home from work again. He walks out
onto the street. He is part of a phalanx of other men in
business suits. They march in step—there should be
strong sense of EVERYMAN being just that: the same as
everyone else. He is one of an oblivious million. DEATH
watches and stalks him, speaking into a walkie-talkie.)
DEATH
There, yonder, I see Everyman walking. Little does he think I am coming.
His mind is on fleshly lusts and his treasure, and it shall cause him to endure great pain
before the Lord, Heavenly King.
Everyman, stand still!
(The lights change with DEATH’s command, leaving
EVERYMAN alone in a tight spotlight. The finger has
been pointed at him, singling him out of the crowd.)
Where are you going? Have you forgotten your Maker?
EVERYMAN
Why do you ask? What do you want?
(EVERYMAN’s tone is cocky and condescending at first,
even distracted and not paying full attention to DEATH.
Only gradually does he realize he is in serious trouble.)
DEATH
Sir, I will show you. In great haste I am sent to you from God, out of his majesty.
EVERYMAN
What, sent to me?
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DEATH
Yes, certainly. Though you have forgotten him here, he thinks of you from his heavenly
sphere, as, before we depart, you shall know.
EVERYMAN
What does God want of me?
DEATH
That I shall show you. He must have a reckoning, without any longer delay.
(DEATH hands over the envelope to EVERYMAN.)
EVERYMAN
To give a reckoning? I crave more time... This blind matter is troubling.
DEATH
You must take a long journey, so bring your book of accounts with you. You cannot
return again by any way. And look you, be sure of your reckoning, for before God you
shall answer—and show your many bad deeds, and good but a few, how you have spent
your life, and in what ways—before the Chief Lord of Paradise.
We must hurry and be on our way... for, know you well, you shall make no one your
advocate.
EVERYMAN
But I am unready to give such a reckoning! I know you not. What messenger are you?
DEATH
I am Death, that dreads no man. For every man I rest, and no man do I spare—for it is
God's commandment that all to me should be obedient.
EVERYMAN
O Death! You came when I had you least in mind!
It lies in your power to save me— of my good will I will give you, if you will be kind, a
thousand pounds if you defer this matter to another day.
DEATH
Everyman, it may not be, in no way.
I set not by gold, silver, or riches, nor by pope, emperor, king, duke, or princes.
If I would receive gifts, I might get all the world!
But my custom is clean contrary.
I will give you no more time. Come along, and don't tarry.
EVERYMAN
Alas, shall I have no longer? I must say, Death gives no warning!
To think on you makes my heart sick, for my book of reckoning is all unready.
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If I could stay for just twelve more years I would make my counting book so clear that I
need not fear my reckoning!
Death, I pray you, for God's mercy, spare me until I am provided of a remedy!
DEATH
Do not cry, weep, and pray—but set off quickly on your journey.
Prove your friends if you can, for , know you well, time waits for no man, and in this
world each living creature must die of nature, for Adam's sin.
EVERYMAN
Death, if I should take this pilgrimage, and make my reckoning, show me, in the name of
holy charity, would I not return again shortly?
DEATH
No, Everyman. Once you are there, you may never again come here, trust me.
EVERYMAN
O gracious God in the high seat celestial, have mercy on me in this hour of need!
Shall I have no company from this terrestrial vale of mine acquaintance, to lead me in
that way?
DEATH
Yes—if any be so hardy that would go with you and bear you company! Hurry up and be
gone to God's magnificence, to give your reckoning before his presence. What, do you
suppose that your life was given you, and your worldly goods too?
EVERYMAN
Yes, I had thought so.
DEATH
No, no! Your life was only lent to you, and as soon as you are gone, another shall have it,
and then go from it, just as you have done. Everyman, you are mad! You had your five
wits, you knew how suddenly I come, and here on earth did not amend your life.
EVERYMAN
O wretched captive! Where shall I run, that I might escape this wretched sorrow?
Now, gentle Death, spare me until tomorrow, that I may amend myself with good
reflection.
DEATH
No. I will not consent—nor will I to any man give respite. I shall smite suddenly, to the
heart, without any advisement. And now I will leave your sight. See you make yourself
ready shortly, for, as you may say, this is the day from which no man living may escape
away.
(Exit DEATH. EVERYMAN stands on the street corner,
forlorn, and a bit confused by what has just happened.
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The city moves around him, and he looks at it with new
eyes. Evening falls. )
MESSENGER SONG LYRIC TO BE INSERTED HERE
EVERYMAN
Alas, I may well weep with sighs deep! Now I have no manner of company to help me
and keep me on my journey. And also my writing is full unready! How can I now excuse
myself? I wish to God I had never been born! It would have been a great profit to my
soul, for now I fear pains huge and great.
The time passes. Lord, help! Though I mourn it helps nothing. The day passes and it is
almost gone. I don't know what to do! To whom should I best make my complaint?
What if I should go and speak of this to Fellowship, and show to him this sudden chance?
In him is all my trust—we have in the world so many a day been good friends in sport
and play. I see him yonder, certainly. I trust that he will bear me company—to him will I
speak to ease my sorrow.
Scene 4
(EVERYMAN meets FELLOWSHIP for a drink in their
usual after-work bar. They were college roommates.
EVERYMAN is nervous, more than a little shaken—but
trying to play it cool. FELLOWSHIP is slickly packaged,
on the fast track to being a partner in his company, a bit
too polished for sincerity. They have martinis. A football
game plays in the background. DEATH sits at the bar next
to them.)
EVERYMAN
Well met, good Fellowship, and good morrow!
FELLOWSHIP
Everyman! Good morrow, by this day! Sir, why do you look so piteous? If anything is
wrong, I pray you, tell me, that I may help to remedy it!
EVERYMAN
Yes, good Fellowship, yes. I am in great jeopardy.
FELLOWSHIP
My true friend, show me your mind. I will not forsake you until my life's end, in the way
of good company.
EVERYMAN
That was well spoken... and lovingly.
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FELLOWSHIP
I must know your sorrow. I have pity to see you in any distress. If any have wronged
you, you shall be revenged, even if I were slain for you on the ground—even if I knew
before that I would die!
EVERYMAN
Truly, Fellowship, I thank you.
FELLOWSHIP
Hush! By your thanks I set not a straw. Show me your grief, and say no more.
EVERYMAN
If I should open my heart to you, and then you turn away from me, and do not comfort me
when you hear me speak, I will be ten times sorrier than before!
FELLOWSHIP
Sir, I say that I will do indeed.
EVERYMAN
Then you be a good friend at need. I have found you true before.
FELLOWSHIP
And so you shall forever more! For, in faith, if you go to hell, I will not forsake you by
the way!
EVERYMAN
You speak like a good friend. I believe you well! I shall repay you, if I can.
FELLOWSHIP
I speak of no repayment, by this day! For he that will say something, and not do it—well,
he is not worthy to go with good company. So show me the grief of your mind, as to
your friend most loving and kind.
EVERYMAN
I will show you how it is: I am commanded to go on a journey. A long way, hard and
dangerous, and give a strict account, without delay, before the high Judge, Adonai. I pray
you, bear me company, as you have promised, on this journey.
FELLOWSHIP
That is a matter indeed.
Promise is duty, but if I should take such a voyage upon me, I know well it would be to
my pain. And it makes me afraid, certainly. But let us take counsel here as well as we
can, for your words would frighten a strong man.
EVERYMAN
But you said, if I had need, you would never forsake me, alive or dead, though it were to
hell!
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FELLOWSHIP
So I said, truly—but such pleasantries be set aside, to tell the truth. And, also, if we took
such a long journey, when would we come back again?
EVERYMAN
Never. Never again until the day of doom.
FELLOWSHIP
In faith, then I will not go there! Who brought you these tidings?
EVERYMAN
Indeed, Death was with me here.
FELLOWSHIP
Now, by all that God has redeemed, if Death was the messenger, for no man that is living
today would I go on that loath journey—not even for my own father!
EVERYMAN
But you promised otherwise, by God!
FELLOWSHIP
I know I said so... and if you would eat, drink, and make good cheer, or haunt women
with your lusty company, I would not forsake you while the day is clear, trust me!
EVERYMAN
Yes, to go there, you would be ready... to go to mirth, solace, and play you would sooner
than to bear me company in my long journey.
FELLOWSHIP
Now, in good faith, I will not go that way... but if you would murder, or kill a man, in that
I would help you with good will!
EVERYMAN
Oh, that is simple advice indeed. Gentle fellow, help me in my necessity! We have long
been friends, and now I need! Now, Gentle Fellowship, remember me!
FELLOWSHIP
Whether you have loved me or not I will not go with you!
EVERYMAN
Yet, I pray you, take the time and do so much as to escort me, for charity, and comfort me
until I leave the town.
FELLOWSHIP
No. I will not go a foot with you. But, if you had stayed, I would not have left you so.
And now God speed you in your journey, for I will depart from you as fast as I may!
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EVERYMAN
Where are you going, Fellowship? Will you forsake me?
FELLOWSHIP
Yes, by my faith! I commend you to God!
EVERYMAN
Farewell, good Fellowship. For you my heart is sore. Good-bye forever! I shall see you
no more.
FELLOWSHIP
In faith, Everyman, farewell now at the ending, for you I will remember that parting is
mourning.
(Exit FELLOWSHIP. EVERYMAN quickly downs the
rest of his drink and stumbles out onto the street after
FELLOWSHIP. He tries to chase him across the street
and is almost hit by a car. The irony of this strikes him
and he begins to laugh, a slightly unhinged, hysterical
laugh.)
INSERT MESSENGER SONG HERE TO COVER TRANSITION
Scene 5
(EVERYMAN stumbles home and, depressed, begins to
eat Chinese food leftovers from his fridge.)
EVERYMAN
Alack! Shall we thus depart indeed—Ah, Lady, help!—without any more comfort?
Lo, Fellowship forsakes me in my most need. To whom can I resort for help in this
world? Fellowship would make merry with me before, and now he takes little sorrow for
me.
(He reads the fortune cookie strip from his Chinese food.)
It is said: "In prosperity men friends may find, which in adversity be full unkind."
(Again, he finds this funnier than it should be, and his
laughter quickly changes into panic.)
Now where can I flee for succor, since Fellowship has forsaken me?
(He flips through his “little black book” and finds nothing
there to help him. Then he gets and idea and picks up the
phone.)
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To my kinsmen, I will go, truly, praying them to help me in my necessity. I believe that
they will do so, for kind will creep where it may not go.
(The doorbell buzzes, they have arrived.)
I will go try, for yonder I see them. Where are you now, my friends and kinsmen?
(Enter KINDRED and COUSIN. KINDRED is a welldressed older gentleman, very distinguished and wealthy
looking—in his experience, throwing around a little
money can help pretty much anything. There is a Harvard
crest on his sport jacket. COUSIN, his son, wears a
HARVARD sweatshirt and is a somewhat reckless and
slightly ridiculous college boy.)
KINDRED
Here we are, at your commandment. Cousin, I pray you, show us your intent in any wise,
and do not spare.
COUSIN
Yes, Everyman, and declare to us if you be disposed to go anywhere—for, you know
well, we will live and die together.
KINDRED
In wealth and in woe we will hold with you, for with his kin a man may be bold.
EVERYMAN
Thank you, my kind friends and kinsmen. Now I shall show you the grief of my mind.
I was commanded by a messenger, who is a high king's chief officer. He bade me go on a
pilgrimage, to my pain, and I know well I shall never come back again. Also, I must give
a true reckoning, for I have a great enemy that lies in wait for me, and who intends to
hinder me.
KINDRED
What account is it that you must render? That I would know.
EVERYMAN
Of all my works, I must show how I have lived and spent my days. Also of the ill deeds
that I have done in my time, since life was lent to me, and of all the virtues that I have
refused. I pray you, go there with me to help make my account, for charity.
COUSIN
What, go there? Is that the matter? No, Everyman—I would rather fast on bread and
water for five years or more!
EVERYMAN
Alas, that I ever was born! For now I shall never again be merry, if you forsake me!
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KINDRED
Ah, sir, what a merry man you are! Take good heart, and make no moan.
But one thing I warn you, as for me... you shall go alone.
EVERYMAN
My cousin, you will not go with me?
COUSIN
No, by our Lady! I have a cramp in my toe. Trust not in me, for, so God speed me, I will
deceive you in your most need.
KINDRED
It is no use trying to persuade us. You shall have my maid with all my heart—she loves
to go to feasts, to be wanton, and to dances, and to go out. I will give her leave to help
you in that journey, if you and she agree.
EVERYMAN
Now show me your mind—will you go with me, or stay behind?
KINDRED
Stay behind? Yes, that I will, and I may! Farewell until another day!
(Exit KINDRED.)
EVERYMAN
How should I be merry or glad? For fair promises men make to me, but when I have
most need they forsake me. I am deceived, and that makes me sad.
COUSIN
Cousin Everyman, farewell now, for truly—I will not go with you. I have an unready
reckoning of my own to account, so I wish to tarry. Now God keep you, for I must go.
(Exit COUSIN. EVERYMAN collapses for a moment, at a
loss for words. True despair is setting in.)
EVERYMAN
Ah, Jesus, is all come to this? Fools will gladly make fair words. They promise, and will
do nothing.
My kinsmen promised me faithfully to abide with me steadfastly, and now they flee fast
away. Even so Fellowship promised me. What friend is it best to provide myself with?
I lose my time if I stay here longer.
Yet in my mind is there one thing—all my life I have loved riches. If that my Goods now
might help me, he would make my heart full light. I will speak to him in this distress.
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Scene 6
INSERT MESSENGER SONG HERE
(EVERYMAN puts on his overcoat and goes out into the
night in search of his GOODS.)
EVERYMAN
Where are you, my goods and riches?
(GOODS speaks from a corner. He is slumped against the
wall amidst a pile of trash. Although you can’t see at first,
the bags and cans are literally tied to him, and keep him
from moving very far. When he does move at all, the can
rattle and the whole pile shifts a few inches. He flashes
the inside lining of his coat, which is red satin, and
studded with gold chains and fake Rolexes.)
GOODS
Who calls me? Everyman? What? Are you in a hurry?
I lie here in corners, trussed and piled so high, locked so fast in chests and sacked in bags.
You may see with your eyes that I cannot stir. I lie low in packs.
What do you want? Tell me quickly.
EVERYMAN
Come here, Goods, with all the speed you may, for I desire your counsel.
GOODS
Sir, if in the world you have sorrow or adversity, that I can help you to remedy shortly.
EVERYMAN
It is another disease that troubles me. It is not in this world, I tell you.
I am sent for, to go another way, to give a strict count general before the highest Jupiter
of all. And all my life I have had joy and pleasure in you, so I pray you, go with me. For,
perchance, you may before God Almighty help to clean and purify my reckoning. For it
is sometimes said that money makes all right that is wrong.
GOODS
No, Everyman, I sing another song.
I follow no man in such voyages. For, if I went with you, you should fare much the
worse for me. Because you set your mind on me, I have made your reckoning blotted and
blind, so that you cannot make your account truly. And that you have for the love of me.
EVERYMAN
That would grieve me full sore, when I should come to that fearful answer.
Up, let us go there together.
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GOODS
No, I say not so! I am too brittle, I will not endure. I will follow no man one foot, be
sure.
EVERYMAN
Alas, I have loved you, and had great pleasure all the days of my life on goods and
treasure.
GOODS
That is to your damnation, truly. For my love is contrary to the love everlasting. If you
had loved me moderately during life, so as to give part of me to the poor, then should you
not be in this sad state, nor in this great sorrow and care.
EVERYMAN
But… I was deceived before I was aware! And I may blame it all on the bad use I have
made of my time.
GOODS
What, do you think that I am yours?
EVERYMAN
I had thought so.
GOODS
No, Everyman, I say no.
For a while, I was lent to you—you have had me in a season of prosperity.
It is my nature to kill a man's soul. If I save one, I ruin a thousand. Do you think that I
will follow you? No. Not from this world, truly.
EVERYMAN
I had thought otherwise.
GOODS
To your soul Goods is a thief, for when you are dead, it is my practice to deceive another
in the same way as I have done you, and all to his soul's shame.
EVERYMAN
O false Goods! May you be cursed!
You are a traitor to God, that has deceived me and caught me in your snare.
GOODS
You brought this sadness on yourself, and I am glad.
I must laugh, I cannot be sad.
EVERYMAN
Ah, Goods, you have long had my heart's love. I gave you that which should be the
Lord's above. But will you not go with me indeed? I pray you to tell the truth.
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GOODS
No, so God speed me! Farewell, and have a good day.
(Exit GOODS. There is a clap of thunder and it starts to
rain. EVERYMAN is at the end of his rope.)
INSERT MESSENGER SONG HERE
Scene 7
EVERYMAN
Oh, to whom shall I make my plea to go with me in that heavy journey?
First Fellowship said he would go with me, and his words were pleasant and gay, but
afterwards he left me alone. Then I spoke to my kinsmen, all in despair, and also they
gave me fair words. They lacked no fair speaking, but they all forsook me in the ending!
Then I went to my Goods, that I loved best, in hopes of having comfort, but there I had
the least! For my Goods told me sharply that he brings many into hell!
I am so ashamed of myself, and I am so worthy to be blamed. I may well hate myself!
Of whom can I now take counsel?
I think that I shall never speed until I go to my Good Deed. But, alas, he is so weak that
he can neither walk nor speak. Yet I will venture to him now. My Good Deeds, where
are you?
(GOOD DEEDS speaks from the ground. He is a homeless
man, who has been beaten and left for dead on a pile of
trash. He moans.)
GOOD DEEDS
Here I lie, cold in the ground. Your sins have bound me, and I cannot stir.
EVERYMAN
O, Good Deeds! I stand in fear! I must pray counsel of you, for help would now be very
welcome.
GOOD DEEDS
Everyman, I understand that you are summoned to make account before the Messiah,
King of Jerusalem, and if you do as I advise, I will take that journey with you.
EVERYMAN
I come to you to make my moan, and I pray you will go with me.
GOOD DEEDS
I would, but, truly, I cannot stand.
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EVERYMAN
Why, what has befallen you?
GOOD DEEDS
Sir, I may thank you for all. If you had encouraged me fully, your book of count would
be full ready. Look, the books of your works and deeds! Behold how they lie under my
feet, to your soul's heaviness.
(EVERYMAN roots about in the trash, and finds piles of
papers, computer print-outs, which he looks at
incredulously.)
EVERYMAN
Our Lord Jesus help me! For I cannot read one letter here!
GOOD DEEDS
In his hour of distress, a sinful person finds that the account of his good deeds is dimly
written and difficult to read.
EVERYMAN
Good Deeds, I pray you, help me in this need, or else I am forever damned indeed!
Help me to make a reckoning before the redeemer of all things, that King who is, and
was, and ever shall be.
GOOD DEEDS
Everyman, I am sorry for your fall, and I would help you, if I were able.
EVERYMAN
Good Deeds, I pray you, give me your counsel.
GOOD DEEDS
That I shall do, truly, though I may not go on my feet. I have a brother that shall go with
you also, called Knowledge, who will abide with you, and help you make that dreadful
reckoning.
(Enter KNOWLEDGE. He is a philosophy graduate
student at Columbia or NYU. He looks intelligent, of
course, but also compassionate, and is dressed simply in a
very rumpled, tattered sort of way. Over one shoulder he
carries a backpack.)
KNOWLEDGE
Everyman, I will go with you, and be your guide. In your deepest need I go by your side.
EVERYMAN
I am now in good condition in everything, and I am wholly content with this good thing,
thanks be to God my Creator.
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GOOD DEEDS
And when he has brought you there, where you shall heal yourself of your pain, go then
with your reckoning and your Good Deeds together, to make your heart joyful before the
Blessed Trinity.
EVERYMAN
My Good Deeds, thank you! I am well content, certainly, with your sweet words.
KNOWLEDGE
Now let us go together lovingly to Confession, that cleansing river.
EVERYMAN
I weep for joy, I wish we were there! But, I pray you, tell me where dwells that holy man,
Confession.
KNOWLEDGE
In the house of salvation. We shall find him in that place, and he will comfort us, by
God's grace.
Scene 8
INSERT MESSENGER SONG HERE
(KNOWLEDGE takes EVERYMAN to CONFESSION.
CONFESSION is a janitor, washing the floors of St.
Patrick’s cathedral. He has a physical affliction—we can
see that he has been through some terrible suffering, and
are slightly frightened to imagine what it might be.
CONFESSION lives in a place of perpetually falling
water.)
KNOWLEDGE
Lo, this is Confession. Kneel down and ask for mercy, for he is in good esteem with God
Almighty.
EVERYMAN
O glorious fountain, that clarifies all uncleanness. Wash from me the spots of vice
unclean, so that no sin may be seen on me. I come with Knowledge for my redemption,
redeemed by heartfelt and full contrition. I am commanded to take a pilgrimage, and to
make great accounts before God. Now I pray you, Shrift, mother of salvation, help my
Good Deeds in answer to my piteous cry!
CONFESSION
I know your sorrow well, Everyman.
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Because you come to me with Knowledge, I will comfort you as well as I can, and I will
give you a precious jewel—called Penance, voider of adversity.
With it, your body will be chastised, with abstinence and perseverance in God's service.
You shall here receive that scourge of me, which is strong penance that you must endure,
to remember how your Savior was scourged for you with sharp scourges, and suffered it
patiently. So must you suffer, before you escape that painful pilgrimage.
Knowledge, keep him in this voyage, and by that time, Good Deeds will be with you.
But be sure of mercy, for your time draws fast, and if you will be saved, ask God for
mercy, and he will truly grant it. When with the scourge of penance a man binds himself,
he shall find the oil of forgiveness.
(CONFESSION gives EVERYMAN a package.)
EVERYMAN
Thanks be to God for his gracious work! For I will now begin my penance. This has
lightened by heart, though the knots of the scourge will be painful and hard on my body.
KNOWLEDGE
Everyman, look you that your penance be fulfilled, whatever pain it will be to you.
And Knowledge will gladly give you counsel how to make your account clear.
EVERYMAN
O eternal God, O heavenly figure, O way of righteousness, O goodly vision.
Which descended down through a virgin pure to redeem every man, which Adam
forfeited by his dis-obedience.
O blessed Godhead, elect and high divine, forgive my grievous offense.
Here I cry your mercy in this presence.
O ghostly treasure, O ransomer and redeemer, of all the world hope and conductor, mirror
of joy, and founder of mercy, which illuminates heaven and the earth besides, hear my
clamorous complaint, though it is late. Receive my prayers, and though I am a sinner
most abominable, yet let my name be written in Moses' table.
O Mary, pray to the Maker of all things to help me at my ending. And save me from the
power of my enemy, for Death assails me strongly. And, Lady, I crave that I may, by
means of your prayers, be a partner of your Son's glory, by the means of his passion. I
beseech your help to save my soul.
Knowledge, give me the scourge of penance, that my flesh shall have acquittance. I will
now begin, if God gives me grace.
KNOWLEDGE
Everyman, God give you time and opportunity!
I bequeath you into the hands of our Savior, and you may now make your reckoning sure.
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EVERYMAN
In the name of the Holy Trinity, my body shall be sorely punished. Take this, body, for
the sin of the flesh!
MESSENGER—INSERT PENANCE MUSIC HERE
(EVERYMAN scourges himself.)
As you delighted to go gay and fresh, and in the way of damnation brought me, suffer
now strokes and punishing. Now of penance I will wade the water clear, to save me from
purgatory, that sharp fire.
(GOOD DEEDS rises from the ground.)
GOOD DEEDS
I thank God, now I can walk and go.
And I am delivered from my sickness and woe.
Therefore I will go with Everyman and I will help him to declare his good works.
KNOWLEDGE
Now, Everyman, be merry and glad!
Your Good Deeds comes now, you may not be sad. Now your Good Deeds are whole
and sound, going upright upon the ground.
EVERYMAN
My heart is light, and shall be forever more. Now I will smite faster than I did before.
GOOD DEEDS
Everyman, pilgrim, my special friend—blessed be you without end! For you is prepared
the eternal glory. You have made me whole and sound, and I will abide by you in every
trial.
EVERYMAN
Welcome, my Good Deeds. Now I hear your voice. I weep for the very sweetness of
love!
KNOWLEDGE
Be no more sad, but ever rejoice!
God sees your living from his throne above. Put on this garment, to your advantage,
which is wet with your tears, or else before God you may miss it, when you come to your
journey's end.
EVERYMAN
Gentle Knowledge, what do you call it?
KNOWLEDGE
It is a garment of sorrow, and it will release you from pain.
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It is called Contrition, that gets forgiveness, and pleases God exceedingly.
GOOD DEEDS
Everyman, will you wear it for your salvation?
EVERYMAN
Now blessed be Jesus, Mary's Son, for now I have on true contrition.
And let us go now without tarrying. Good Deeds, have we clear our reckoning?
GOOD DEEDS
Yes, indeed, I have it here.
Scene 9
EVERYMAN
Then I trust we need not fear. Now friends, let us not part again.
KNOWLEDGE
No, Everyman, that we will not.
GOOD DEEDS
Yet you must bring with you three persons of great might.
EVERYMAN
Who should they be?
GOOD DEEDS
They are called Discretion and Strength, and your Beauty may not stay behind.
KNOWLEDGE
Also you must call to mind your Five Wits as your counselors. (Five Senses)
GOOD DEEDS
You must have them ready at all hours.
EVERYMAN
How shall I get them here?
KNOWLEDGE
You must call them all together, and they will hear you immediately.
EVERYMAN
My friends, come here and be present—Discretion, Strength, my Five Wits, and Beauty.
(Enter BEAUTY, STRENGTH, DISCRETION, and FIVE
WITS. BEAUTY is dressed in a tuxedo, dressed for a
night on the town. STRENGTH has just come from the
25
gym. DISCRETION is a lawyer, and FIVE WITS is a
doctor.)
BEAUTY
Here at your will we are all ready. What do you wish that we should do?
GOOD DEEDS
That you would with Everyman, and help him in his pilgrimage. Consider it—will you
go with him or not in that voyage?
STRENGTH
We will bring him there, to his help and comfort, you may believe me!
DISCRETION
So will we go with him all together.
EVERYMAN
Almighty God, praised may you be!
I give you laud that I have brought here Strength, Discretion, Beauty, and Five Wits. I
lack nothing. And my Good Deeds, with clear Knowledge, all are in my company here. I
desire no more for my business.
STRENGTH
And I, Strength, will stand by you in distress, though you would battle or fight on the
ground.
FIVE WITS
And though it were through the world round, we will not depart in happiness or adversity.
BEAUTY
Nor will I, until death's hour, whatever befalls us.
DISCRETION
Everyman, I advise you first of all: Go with a good advisement and reflection. We all
give you virtuous forewarning that all will be well.
EVERYMAN
My friends, hear what I will tell you:
I pray God reward you in his heavenly sphere.
Now listen, all that are here, for I will make my testament here before all you present.
In alms, I will give half my goods with my two hands in the way of charity, with good
intent, and the other half shall remain in bequest, to be returned where it ought to be.
This I do in despite of the fiend of hell, to go free of his power today and ever after.
KNOWLEDGE
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Everyman, listen to what I say:
Go to priesthood, I advise you, and receive of him without fail the holy sacrament and
ointment together. Then shortly return here again. We will wait for you here.
FIVE WITS
Yes, Everyman. Hurry and prepare yourself. There is no emperor, king, duke, or baron,
that of God has the authority, as does the least priest in the living world.
For of the blessed sacraments, pure and benign, he bears the keys, and has charge of the
cure for man's redemption, it is ever sure, which God, for our soul's medicine, gave us out
of his heart with great suffering.
Here in this transitory life, for you and I, there are seven blessed sacraments:
baptism, confirmation, with priesthood good, and the sacrament of God's precious flesh
and blood, Marriage, the holy extreme unction, and penance. These seven it is good to
remember, gracious sacraments of high divinity.
EVERYMAN
Gladly would I receive that holy body, and meekly to my spiritual father I will go.
FIVE WITS
Everyman, it is the best that you can do.
God will bring you to salvation, for priesthood exceeds all other things. To us they teach
the Holy Scripture, and convert man from sin into heaven's reach. God has given them
more power than he has to any angel that is in heaven. With five words he may
consecrate, making God's body in flesh and blood, and handle his Maker between his
hands. The priest binds and unbinds all bands, both on earth and in heaven.
[Thou ministers all the sacraments seven; though we kissed thy feet, thou were worthy;
thou art surgeon that cures sin deadly: no remedy do we find under God except from the
priesthood.]
Everyman, God gave priests that dignity and sets them in his stead to be among us, thus
they are above angels in degree.
(EVERYMAN goes to the priest to receive the last
sacraments.)
KNOWLEDGE
If priests are good, they are above angels, surely.
But when Jesus hanged on the cross with great smart, there he gave out of his blessed
heart the same sacrament in great torment: he sold them not to us, that Lord omnipotent.
Therefore Saint Peter and the apostles do say that all they which God their Savior do buy
and sell have Jesus's curse, or they for any money do take or tell. Sinful priests give the
sinners a bad example. Their children sit by other men's fires, I have heard, and some
27
haunt women's company with unclean life, as lusts of lechery. These are with sin made
blind.
FIVE WITS
I trust to God no such may we find. Therefore let us honor priesthood, and follow their
doctrine for our soul's succor. We are their sheep, and they are shepherds, by whom we
are all kept in surety.
Peace, for yonder I see Everyman come, who has made true satisfaction.
GOOD DEEDS
I think it is he indeed.
Scene 10
(Re-enter EVERYMAN.)
EVERYMAN
Now Jesus be the helper of all!
I have received the sacrament for my redemption, and then my extreme unction: blessed
be all they that counseled me to take it! And now, friends, let us go without longer
respite. I thank God that you have waited so long. Now set each of you this cross in your
hand, and shortly follow me. I go before, there I would be. God be our guide!
STRENGTH
Everyman, we will not go from you until you have done with this long voyage.
DISCRETION
I, Discretion, will stay with you also.
KNOWLEDGE
And though this pilgrimage be grievous, I will never part from you.
STRENGTH
Everyman, I will stand by you as steadfastly as ever I did by Judas Maccabee.
(EVERYMAN comes to his grave.)
EVERYMAN
Alas, I am so faint I may not stand. My limbs fold under me. Friends, let us not turn
again to this land, not for all the world's gold. For into this cave I must creep and turn to
earth, and there sleep.
BEAUTY
What, into the grave? Alas!
EVERYMAN
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Yes. There shall you be consumed, more and less.
BEAUTY
And what, should I smother here?
EVERYMAN
Yes, by my faith, and never again appear. We shall live no more in this world, but in
heaven before the highest Lord of all.
BEAUTY
I cross out all this. Adieu, by Saint John! I take my cap in my lap and am gone.
EVERYMAN
What, Beauty, where will you go?
BEAUTY
Peace, I am deaf. I look not behind me, not if you would give me all the gold in your
chest.
(Exit BEAUTY.)
EVERYMAN
Alas, whom can I trust?
Beauty goes fast away from me. He promised to live and die with me!
STRENGTH
Everyman, I will also forsake and deny you. Your game pleases me not at all.
EVERYMAN
Why, then, you will forsake me all? Sweet strength, stay a little while.
STRENGTH
No sir, by the rood of grace! I will get me from you fast, though you weep until your
heart breaks.
EVERYMAN
But you said you would stay with me forever!
STRENGTH
I have conveyed you far enough. Your are old enough, I understand, to take your
pilgrimage in hand. I am sorry that I came here.
EVERYMAN
Strength, I am to blame for displeasing you. Yet a promise is a debt-- this you well
know!
STRENGTH
29
In faith, I don't care. You are a fool to complain, you spend your speech and waste your
brain. Go thrust yourself into the ground!
(Exit STRENGTH.)
EVERYMAN
I had thought to have found you more sure. He who trusts in his strength will be
deceived at length. Both Strength and Beauty have forsaken me, yet they promised me
fair and lovingly.
DISCRETION
Everyman, I will be gone after Strength—as for me, I will leave you alone.
EVERYMAN
Why, Discretion, will you forsake me, too?
DISCRETION
Yes, in faith, I will go from you—for when Strength goes before I always follow after.
EVERYMAN
Yet, I pray you, for the love of the Trinity, look once in my grave, piteously.
DISCRETION
No! I will not come so near! Farewell, everyone!
(Exit DISCRETION.)
EVERYMAN
Oh, all things fail, save God alone. Beauty, Strength, and Discretion. For when Death
blows his blast, they all run from me fast!
FIVE WITS
Everyman, I take my leave of you now. I will follow the others, for here I forsake you.
EVERYMAN
Alas! Then I may wail and weep, for I took you to be my best friend!
FIVE WITS
I will no longer keep you. Now farewell—and there's the end.
(Exit FIVE WITS.)
Scene 11
EVERYMAN
Oh, Jesus, help! All have forsaken me.
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GOOD DEEDS
No, Everyman. I will stay with you. I will not sake you indeed, you will find me a good
friend at need.
EVERYMAN
Thank you, Good Deeds! Now I can see my true friends. They have forsaken me, every
one. I loved them better than my Good Deeds alone.
Knowledge, will you forsake me also?
KNOWLEDGE
Yes, Everyman. when you go to Death. But not yet, for there is no manner of danger.
EVERYMAN
Thank you, Knowledge, with all my heart.
KNOWLEDGE
No, I will not yet depart from here... not until I see where you shall become.
EVERYMAN
I think, alas, that I must go to make my reckoning and pay my debts, for I see my time is
nearly spent away. Take this example, all you that do hear or see this-- how they that I
loved best did forsake me, except my Good Deeds, to abides truly.
GOOD DEEDS
All earthly things are but vanity. Beauty, Strength, Discretion do forsake man. Foolish
friends, and kinsmen, that are fair spoken-- all flee save Good Deeds, and that I am.
EVERYMAN
Have mercy on me, God most mighty. And stand by me, mother and maid, holy Mary.
GOOD DEEDS
Fear not. I will speak for you.
EVERYMAN
Here I cry God mercy!
GOOD DEEDS
Shorten our end, and diminish our pain. Let us go and never come again.
EVERYMAN
Into your hands, Lord, I commend my soul. Receive it, Lord, that it be not lost.
As you bought me, so defend me, and save me from the fiend's boast, so I may appear
with the blessed host and shall be saved at the day of doom.
IN MANUS TUAS, of mights most for ever, COMMENDO SPIRITUM MEUM.
(He sinks into the grave.)
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KNOWLEDGE
Now has he suffered that we all shall endure.
The Good Deeds shall make all sure.
Now he has made an ending, and I think... I hear angels singing, and making a great joy
and melody where every man's soul shall be received.
ANGEL/GOD
Come, excellent elect spouse, to Jesus! Here above you shall go, because of your
singular virtue. Now the soul is taken from the body, and your reckoning is crystal clear.
Now shall you go into the heavenly sphere, into which all of you shall come that live well
before the day of doom.
MESSENGER
This moral may men keep in mind. You hearers, take it of worth, old and young, and
forsake Pride, for he deceives you in the end.
And remember Beauty, Five Wits, Strength, and Discretion, who all do forsake every
man at the last—except his Good Deeds, which he takes there with him.
But beware, if they are small, before God they are no help at all. No excuse may be there
for every man.
Alas, what will he do then? For after death no man may make amends, for then mercy
and pity forsake him.
If his reckoning is not clear when he comes, God will say: ITE, MALEDICTI, IN IGNEM
ETERNUM--Depart, ye cursed, into everlasting fire. And he who has his account whole
and sound, shall be crowned high in heaven-- unto which place God brings all of us, so
we may live body and soul together, thereto help the Trinity!
THE WORLD IS TURNING
THE TWILIGHT CLOSES
NOW I LAY ME DOWN TO SLEEP
THE DAY IS FADING
THE NIGHT APPROACHES
I PRAY THE LORD MY SOUL TO KEEP
IF I SHOULD DIE BEFORE I WAKE
I PRAY THE LORD MY SOUL TO TAKE
BUT IF I SHOULD WAKE BEFORE I DIE
I PRAY THAT FOR JUST A MOMENT I MAY FLY . . .
THE SKY IS LIMITLESS
THE SUN IS BLINDING
LIKE ICARUS, MY WINGS ARE WEAK
A POOR INVENTION
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OF STRING AND PAPER
THEY BURN UP IN THE SUN I SEEK
HOW TRANSITORY WE BE ALL DAY
WE'RE BACK WHERE WE BEGAN
THUS ENDS THE MORAL PLAY
OF EVERYMAN.
(As the play ends, our final image is of the clean, white
stage. An apple lies, forgotten, on the floor at stage center.
The MESSENGER walks on stage and picks it up as he
sings. Slowly, each actor appears, holding one of the
world's famous paintings of apples, bowls of apples, etc.
Finally, EVERYMAN joins the throng, carrying his own
canvas with the picture of the apple on it. The lights fade
and the music ends.)
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