I have a script that runs on open.

It insists on selecting a non-modifiable field even when I end the script with a go to object command.

How do you get a file to open in a neutral state - ie with no active field?

A file normally opens without a field active or selected. Try disabling your opener script and you'll see. Something in your script is obviously going to a field. The last step as you mention.

Thanks - spot on: I'd forgotten where it was coming from