skorp

This weekend I spent a few hours at a local carnival. While I was there I became completely obsessed with watching the carnies. These particular carnies were the kind you see in movies. Dirty, shady, dangerous looking people. Every one of them looked like they would slit your throat if they caught you alone behind a tent.

I sparked up random conversations with some of the more approachable ones and was even more disturbed to hear what they had on their minds.

One guy was about 5'5 and very stocky. He had greasy, curly brown hair about shoulder length. His face was smeared with oil and dirt and he spoke with a lisp. His mouth was permanently curved into a slanted smile and he talked about how all these kids look 21 but they are all really 15.

Another man was about 6'4 and was equally filthy. He had slicked back hair that was either black or just stained that way from grease and oil. He spoke without ever removing the bent cigarette from his mouth. His favored topic of conversation was, and I quote, "Fuckin' beaners and stinkin' spics". He was a very offensive fellow.

The last man I wanted to bring up was a scary fuck. He was very overwieght, balding and even dirtier then the others. I didn't talk to him but I kept a close eye on him through my sunglasses. He stared long and hard at every child that walked by. He never took a second look at the beautiful college girl and her friends that bounced by after exiting the Tilt-a-whirl. He didn't hide his constant leering either and that expression never budged from his face. He worries me.

What is it about carnivals that attracts this type? I know I wanted to work the carnivals when I was younger but now I'm glad I never pursued it. Would I have become them, or is it them who find that life?