The Launch

Soon he could see cameras angling and flashing,
tables piled high with the same fabulous book.
His diamond-studded pen was poised to sign
thousands of flyleaves while his left hand
cradled his eight-pound offspring:
The Tears of Adonis.
What a blockbuster!
Then the nightmares began.
All around him, goldfish mouths
emitted bubbles which read:
— I can't believe this is your first book — it's so go-oo-od.
(By the way, are you free tonight?)
— Your face looks familiar — ever been on the cover of Time?
— Tell me, HOW DO YOU WRITE?
— Do you always wear so much gold jewellery?
— Just love that turban! Where'd you hire it?
— Is your family supportive of your writing?
— What a pretty girl on the cover: is she your daughter?
— Is it true you amassed a fortune from the slave trade, and own a private army?
— You know, I think you're in touch with something really deep here —
I mean like something psychosomatic.
May I leave my card?
Stardust palm readings
and "relaxation therapy'.
Chloe.
For those seeking Inner Peace.