"Tapestry" Line-by-Line

PICARD: No, please, Counsellor, I would very much like to hear your thoughts. First of all, and I would like you to be absolutely straightforward with me. How would you evaluate me as an officer?

 

Troi: Well, er, your performance records have always been good. You're thorough, dedicated.

 

RIKER: Reliable, steady... punctual...

 

Picard: I see. What would you say if I told you that I believed that I was capable of being very much more.

 

RIKER: Perhaps we should discuss this at your next evaluation.

 

Picard: I would appreciate it if we could discuss it now. You see, I feel that I would like to move beyond astrophysics to Engineering or Security, something that might even lead to Command.

 

RIKER: Frankly, Lieutenant, I don't think that's realistic.

 

Picard: Why?

 

TROI: I really don't think this is the place to be discussing this.

 

Picard: Please. This is important to me. I believe that I can do more.

 

TROI: Hasn't that been the problem all along? Throughout your career you've had lofty goals, but you've never been willing to do what's necessary to attain them.

 

Picard: Would that be your evaluation as well, Commander?

 

RIKER: I think I have to agree with the Counsellor. If you want to get ahead, you have to take chances, stand out in a crowd, get noticed.

 

Picard: I see.

 

RIKER: Now, we don't want to lose you. You're a very good officer.

 

Picard: Just not one who stands out.

 

RIKER: Why don't I talk to Commander La Forge in Engineering and we'll see what we can do.

 

Picard: But, Command?

 

RIKER: Well, we'll see.

 

Data [OC]: Senior officers, please report to the Captain's Ready room.