A science renga

摘要

"Pall bearing is a young man's job," thought Mankiewitz as Dr Carlson's corner of the casket slipped lower. Mankiewitz was surprised by his advisor's struggle. The hairy billy goat had never appeared to lack vigour. But today, rain dripping from his clumsily cropped beard and the white tufts of hair on his wrists, he seemed a frailer, more tamed version of himself. The death of Alan Stilwell had shocked Carlson. Yet he could not have hoped for a tidier solution. Alan had been his best post-doc, and a good friend. But when Alan stole his idea their friendship unravelled into bitter competition. Thoughts of Alan's betrayal and its ironic, unpredictable consequences strengthened Carlson.