AN UNEXPECTED SETBACK
We waited while the photographer's assistant
shook a Polaroid back and forth.

Can I ask you something, I said.

Sure, he said. His eyes were invisible behind
dark glasses.

Why am I unphotogenic? I asked. I mean. I am
not a ghastly person, and yet --

I know what you mean, he said. Then I think
he peered at me intently through his
sunglasses but it was impossible to tell.

You have a moon-face, he said finally,
puffing his cheeks up like a bullfrog. It's
a youthful look but it doesn't work on film.

Ahh, I said. Yeah yeah I see what you mean.

I wouldn't worry about it too much, he
assured me. You have very symmetrical lips.


Index