I was in the empty city. As if it was really empty - really the city is full of people, but they're poor, bums with no other choice who don't have first-class social services. I mean, the people aren't at fault, but society. Except for the criminals, muggers, rapists, and murderers. They are evil people, rejects. But all the other poor people are regular folks you can have a drink with.
I was in the empty city and a sign hinted to me out of the darkness that I would be warmly welcomed. Not knowing what was inside I was ready for anything and gave the door a tentative push.
It didn't budge. I looked in and saw an unclear picture: either a light was on, or I was seeing the reflection of the streetlights, or nothing was there, I was deluding myself into seeing a warm group of night friends.
A kid opened the door. I was startled. "Come on in, why are you standing there like a idiot?"
With my halflit face, I asked - "?"
"You're not alone in the city. The city is not empty. No one's waiting for you, but if you want to stop wasting your life we're here for you."
I went in.
The door shut after me.
The place was empty. Everything was dark. The kid had disappeared.
On a stool in the center of the room - like in a bar - was a handwritten note. The words were easy to read:
"The room is empty because you are empty. Go fill yourself up." |