A modification of automatic writing is the technique of SIMULATION. Instead of assuming a passive or ‘receptive’ frame of mind, one can with practice assume an active mental state not of one’s own. – Surrealist Games, Redstone Press, 1991.
The steaks are sourced from a remote farm deep within the Isle of Man. Dealing with the farmer can be an ordeal, in fact. He’s not interested in exports. So far, I believe I am the only butcher able to supply his fine steaks on the mainland.
Despite the added hassle, I still sell the steaks at a reasonable price. I don’t believe in the inherent superiority of steak, but I do insist on quality. I did not get into this business to sell burgers and hotdogs. And yet do the customers appreciate me? Every day they march in with pleas for chicken wings and pre-seasoned breast. I don’t mind providing offal, but I draw the line at black pudding.
My competitor is a feeble man and probably suffering some sort of mental illness. He has reported me on completely spurious charges not only on Instagram, but on LinkedIn and WhatsApp too. I refuse to be drawn into petty conflict with such a self-evidently inferior meat merchant. The man sells fucking pies for God’s sake.
By the grace of God, I butch. I will no more supply lesser quality steak than prick a sausage. Meat is my higher power. Meat as created by intelligent design. The cow is our Lord’s greatest invention, closely followed by the pig and the sheep. Do not talk to me of fish.
10/7/25 10.15am.
James JW Robinson 