“It is time to put an end to your trek through the stars.” -Q

In the series finale of The Next Generation, and our last episode for the term, Captain Picard finds himself moving through time against his will. He is also suffering hallucinations, and after a time-jump he discovers that he is predisposed to a degenerative neurological condition known as Irumodic Syndrome.

Is Picard going crazy, or is the world really coming apart around him? An anomaly is discovered in two of the three time periods he visits, but the crew is unable to make a meaningful connection.

Whereas the Voyager finale dealt with an abuse of power, this finale looks at the complete loss of power. Not only has Picard lost control of when he exists, but the destruction of all humanity seems to be predetermined – and it’s all Picard’s fault. How do we deal with the loss of pose or authority? Are we ever completely powerless? What does this episode tell us about Captain Picard’s leadership style?