An Identity

A root of an equation is a number which substituted into the equation instead of an unknown converts the equation into an identity. The root is said to satisfy the equation. Solving an equation implies finding all of its roots. An equation that is always satisfied, no matter what the choice of values for its unknowns, is called an identity.
(a + b)2 = a2 + 2ab + b2.
-Stieg Larsson
"The Girl Who Played With Fire"

Twenty-five years ago today:

August 25, 1985
Sunday

I woke up Denise too early. She wanted to sleep some more, so I let her do that. I decided to telephone her again and I wanted to drive over to Clayton, California to meet her for breakfast.
Denise said, “I look like shit and I really think I should sleep some more.”
“Oh, okay,” I shrugged.
She added, “Just don’t go away too far.”
I laughed at that line and proceeded to bike ride to mom’s house for breakfast. I continued on a bike ride for about two hours.

After the ride I returned to mom’s house and found my brother, Tony, and his wife, Helen there. We watched the movies “A Little Sex” and “Making the Grade” together. After the double-feature I returned to my pad for some rest and relaxation.

Rachelle Davies called me. I got the impression that she is missing me a lot. She, of course, did not admit it. It would interfere with her identity. She sounded very sweet and most agreeable over the phone.
Rachelle announced proudly, “Last night, Danee and I went to San Fran and we were enticed into a male strip joint.”
I laughed but didn’t feel like hearing much more.
I explained, “I’m so tired and sleepy.”
She made no argument and let me hang up the phone and go to bed.

I JO’d three times during the night. I simply couldn’t sleep. I had a brainstorm idea to try and get part-time sales positions at one of three car dealerships (BMW, MAZDA or a PORSCHE dealership). Maybe I’ll get lucky.

"I have had some illusions shattered."
-as heard in the not-very-good 2007 film
"The Walker"