The files I keep on everyone are in my mind, in the totally automated part that I call ‘the office’.
The secretary who runs this office has no time for or interest in compiling bulky files. Each is the slimmest of volumes, rarely containing more than a single page, more often a scrap of paper. The information thereon is minimal, characterised by indifference, judgement, tolerance, or, on the other hand, hostility.
Some contain a single word, such as ‘sly’, ‘underhand’ or ‘unreliable’. These dismissive epithets are reserved for people considered unimportant.
For friends, or more especially, enemies, there are delightful epigraphs. Typical ones would be ‘Charming. Promises the world. Never delivers.’ Another would be ‘Ambitious. Devious. A real opportunist. Never trust.’
Other observations take the form of comments, such as ‘What a load of sentimental claptrap – she’d sell her grandmother to further her ambition.’ These comments are activated on sight of the subject.
Watch Out!
John Killeen
