In Franz Kafka's short story "Metamorphosis," Gregor Samsa transforms into a "monstrous, verminous bug." Don't worry, I'm not experiencing any entomological changes, but I'm really just invoking Kafka to mention the two cockroaches I killed in my bedroom this morning.
A month ago in the U.S., I would have experienced a minor nervous breakdown if I woke up to two cockroaches in my bed. Not outside the house, not on the floor of my room, but in my bed. This morning, I nudged them onto the floor and slammed them with my shoe, one after the other, without a major change in facial expression. And despite the roaches, I still consider my living situation in Dakar to be near-luxury compared to my village stay in Boundou Kodi-- and it's almost painful to compare my living situations in New Jersey, Brooklyn, or Ohio.
Well, if you're thinking of me, think of the two "splats" that defined my morning, and just speculate how much I miss you all.
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Hey Clare, It was great "skype-ing" with you today. You look and sound great! We're really enjoying your blog entries - cockroaches, splats and all. Please keep them up; we look forward to reading them.
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