From the desk of Dr. Akio Proctor,
The following is a transcript of my initial interview with the Bloom family. This family of four has applied for relocation through our foundation after an incestuous relationship was publicly outed. A copy of the audio recording as well as additional information can be made available to interested academics. I have also documented my notes in italics when pertinent. For the purpose of confidentiality, all names and details have been changed or redacted.
The speakers in the transcript can be identified as: Akio Proctor, 55-year-old male, PhD and Professor of Anthropology at the University of Tokyo, Samuel Bloom, 45-year-old male, and Sarah Bloom, 39-year-old female. They are both the biological parents of two 18 year olds, Jake and Jennifer. As per their request, this initial interview did not begin in the presence of their children. However both Jake and Jennifer were ultimately required to complete the interview.
The transcript begins after pleasantries have been exchanged and with the entirety of the conversation recorded in the comfort of their living room.
Proctor:
First, let me say thank you for meeting with me.
Samuel:
is that really necessary?
He is pointing at my tape recorder.
Proctor:
Let me assure you, Mr. Bloom. I am contractually obligated by the same confidentiality agreement you both have signed with my lawyer. My interest in your family is purely academic. I trust that you have had a chance to review my references as well as my contributions to various journals across the world.
Sarah:
To be honest, it's still a little much to take in.
Proctor:
I understand. However it is the purpose of my research and institution to provide aid to families such as your own. In return for my foundation's financial contribution, I only ask for complete transparency in order to conduct our research and advocacy. But I imagine you have questions.
Sarah:
I guess a lot. I really don't know where to start.
Samuel:
Let's start with how you have the money to do what you say.
Proctor:
A simple explanation. Eugene Proctor, my paternal grandfather, fought against my country during the Second World War. During the conflict, he fell in love with my grandmother, a young Japanese woman. He stayed in the country for 20 years as a member of the United States military in the postwar occupation. He used a considerable sum from his salary to invest in major Japanese automobile companies, eventually creating a substantial net worth. Each member of my family since has been worth many billions of US dollars, although exactly how many I am unsure.
Samuel:
So you don't actually have to work?
Proctor:
We have very different cultures Mr. Bloom. In Japan, it would be dishonorable not to contribute to society. Certainly my family's wealth makes me comfortable, but it does not excuse me from service. If anything, as I have not earned any wealth through my own merit, I feel my contributions to the scholarly world must justify the use of these funds.
Sarah:
You speak very good English. Did your grandfather teach you?
Proctor:
No, Mrs. Bloom. It is not uncommon in Japan for students to learn even three or four languages. I am only fluent in English and Japanese. I can ask to use the toilet or visit the library in Mandarin, not much else I'm afraid.
Samuel:
So what is it exactly you are offering?
Proctor:
I assumed my lawyer gave you the details.
Samuel:
He did, but I feel more comfortable hearing the same thing from your mouth.
Proctor:
I am not sure what I can possibly add. My foundation would pay for your relocation to a small, isolated island in Japan. As you say, room and board would be provided. Indeed, the house available is quite luxurious; I have photos if you would like to see.
At this point, Samuel waves his hand indicating he is more interested in hearing me speak.
Proctor:
Each working member of the household would be compensated with an annual salary equivalent to 50,000 US dollars. Any students or adults desiring an education would be provided with a distance-learning experience free from expense... of course consistent with their educational abilities.
Sarah:
Jake and Jennifer could attend college for free?
Proctor:
Precisely. However, while I am able to influence universities to a certain extent, education in Japan is far more strenuous than many public institutions in the United States. Let me assure you that I mean no offense. But it is possible your children would need remedial lessons to learn Japanese and any other subjects should they fail to meet standards. Japanese universities are very competitive. But appropriate educational classes and even tutoring will be provided free from charge in order to allow your family to pursue their field of interest.
Sarah:
This is great. Jake could finally get caught up! He's been a year behind...
Samuel:
Yeah... What's the catch?
Proctor:
The catch, if I understand your meaning, is that your continued contract depends in your cooperation with my research. While your anonymity is assured, I will use interviews, including audio and video recordings for my publications. Again, no one will be able to identify you or your family.
Sarah:
Video recordings?
She seems skeptical at this. Based on my experiences, I believe in America public recordings must be considered a violation.
Proctor:
Yes, all the houses available come with video surveillance in every room. While none of this will be published, it is essential for research.
Samuel:
Well thank you for your time, Dr. Proctor. I don't think we will be taking you up on that offer.
The father seems particular hostile. It is too bad, the reluctance of the father has the making of an excellent case study.
Proctor:
That is certainly your choice. Thank you for letting me know now before I waste any more time. Best of luck.
Sarah:
Honey, we need this.
Proctor:
Again I assure you these videos are just for documentation. No one will see them apart for myself and my staff, who is thoroughly vetted and legally obligated to maintain the terms of my agreement.
