A Slummy New World

I think this short story is closely related to the other reading about Evan Ratliff. It shows that Ratliff was not the only one who wants to hide in plain sight (even if the short story was fictional, it still shows that other people have at least thought of the possibility). Even though Ratliff hid for a different reason, both readings showed how thrilling it could be- to be someone else. I can't say I would go out on the street for fashion, but I would like to go out and take a step out of my comfort zone to try something that would allow me to be separated from the life I live now for a short period of time... just to try. The Keyes had a nice thought, getting out of their rich and comfortable lives to something dirtier. By stepping into a different life, a person can feel rejuvenated. In the readings, Inky says she is falling in Love with her husband/boyfriend but that connection faded while they were living a comfortable life. Now that they are on the streets, having no worries, she is feeling better about everything and everyone.

In a way, this glorifies the sadness of homelessness. I understand it is amazing to get out of the normal, everyday routine once in a while, but to, in a way, mock the real homeless people sounds cruel. If this weren't a fictional story, it would enrage me. Just knowing that those people are doing this because it is a fad and that they can go back to their normal, rich lives any day they want it kind of disgusting. Sometimes I don't think of the Rich as real people... they think they are above the law, above morals, and are super-human.

Thankfully this was only a fictional tale. I did enjoy the twist of an ending. Moving from high class living to trying the fads of being a slum, to now, hiding in your old identity of a rich individual. Maybe the persona we have now is really the best refuge to have...