Emergence of a Grotesque Sub-Culture
The initial conception of the traveling freakshow is one moment in human history that I greatly would like to have witnessed. So, for my own viewing pleasure, I present a re-creation of the earliest documented exchange between what would come to be known as a freak, and an entrepreneur of sorts.
Act One (of one)
Businessman: So, I see that you have a horrible, horrible disfigurement.
Unfortunate Birth Defect Victim: That's a keen eye you have, sir. I do indeed have a frightening malformation.
Businessman: You probably get this all the time, and you don't have to answer if you don't feel comfortable, but... can I put you in an exhibit that consists essentially of the general public staring at your stomach-churning deformity?
UBD Victim: Hmmm. An interesting proposal. Say I go with you, what kind of living arrangements can I expect?
Businessman: Horse trailers, buses with window AC units, maybe even a few Ramadas.
UBD Victim: Ramadas!? Now I'm not so sure...
Businessman: Hey, if you don't want in, I got other clients to speak to. The guy that eats car tires is a real up-and-comer...
UBD Victim: No, wait! (Sigh)... where do I sign?
Businessman: Beautiful. Just beautiful. We're goin' straight to the top, you and me. You're gonna be in pictures, I can see it now...
(Cut to classic cross-country, county fair montage)
posted by Arthur Croft Yates @ 8:51 PM
1 Comments:
That seems just about right. The only issue left unsolved is how the tire-eating-man discovered his mind-blowing talent.
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