The liquor store is emptier than usual. Scott expects the typical level of casual banter with Pete (cousin of benevolent Mike), the store's new part-owner.
Pete: The usual for you tonight partner?
Scott: You know the drill: kill the liver, heal the mind.
Pete: Tough week?
Scott: You could say that. Writing and writing and writing and every word of it crap.
Pete: I've always wondered, what exactly is it you're always writing?
Scott: (his mind a blank) It's a ...
Pete: You write it all the time and you can't remember?
Scott: Quiet! I want to cherish this moment.
Pete: What do you mean?
Scott: I can't remember. I'm unencumbered. Frame this moment: I'm free.
Pete: ... ?
The Joker has freed your mind.
Posted by: Adam Roberts | Monday, 20 August 2007 at 03:31 PM