Something Emotional This Way Comes

This afternoon I heard a little kid in the park declare to what I assumed was his granddad: ‘Alvin and the Chipmunks is the best film I have seen in my eyes!’

I smiled. It’s not that good.

Somehow this reminded me of a story Ange told me a few weeks ago. It was the morning after Heath Ledger died. She was in the staff room at the school where she works, early in the morning and alone, using the internet. She had just found out about the story and was shocked. She was one of those women who got off on Heath and Jake not being able to quit one another in that gay cowboy film. A colleague of hers, a nerdy but lively guy called Johnny came through the door. Ange turned to him and said, ‘Have you seen the news? Heath Ledger’s dead!’

‘I know!’ replied Johnny, seemingly equally shocked. ‘I thought his name was Keith!’

I laughed.

I used to think his name was Keith too.

Speaking of which, Keith is on his way over. Apparently, he needs to talk. He sounded emotional on the phone. I’m going to cook some pasta. I believe that pasta is good food when you’re emotional. I have no idea why I believe that.

But I do.