Power is the name that one attributes to a complex strategical situation in a particular society.

An Oasis or a mirage? Elizabeth Street, September 2010.

I stand at this very spot, directly outside this den of iniquity, and await my second bus for the day to another den of iniquity, the Carruthers Building. On this bus, I can expect to find a number of regular characters, who are rapidly developing interesting back-stories to go along with the monikers that I have already given them.

Take as an example “Japara Bitch”, so-called for the lovable combination of her fashionable raincoat and a face like a slapped arse. Opposite her is a fellow I call “Oh we’re from Tigerland” – or “Tiges” for short – with his tear-stained “Save Our Skins” hat from way back in ’90. At the back are the Chuckle Brothers, a trio of slack-jawed howlers who appear to have recently arrived on planet Earth with little more than the matching tracksuits on their backs. You will also find “Sparkles”, “Manuel”, “The Princess of Hearts”, “Grizzly Adams” and a whole host of others on the 7:48 am to Glenorchy via New Town Road (All Stops).

The only thing that I can’t figure out is what they’ve nicknamed Me…