From the platform, The Dalai Lama looked at the assembled throng. Thousands of readers, artists, teachers, scientists, and intellectuals were there. 

The mood was somber. A few hotheads were making angry speeches. 

Musicians had brought instruments: from different directions he heard snatches of the Battle Hymn of the Republic, of We Shall Overcome; and of the bloody Marseillaise.

The Dalai Lama had often spoken to large groups. But now he was needed to prevent The Fourth Great Cataclysm. 

He had to give the performance of a lifetime.