Learn to Take a Hint

Get out of here, says the library. Seriously, go somewhere else.

But I want to stay here, says Erson. I want to become so predictable that anyone could stalk me. I want my bones to bend slowly around this chair like steamed plywood; I want to grow thick wings of fat that eat it up the same way an old tree can eat a stop sign. I want you to put a plaque in front of me, so the tourists can take photos with full permission. I want them to know they’re allowed to use the flash.

You ask a lot, says the library. I have air conditioning — you want that?