Running Close to the Wind

by Alexandra Rowland

Some may ask if it is better to be loved or feared, and I say: Neither. It is better to be pitied. Then people don’t expect anything of you.”

“An unpicky slut,” Avra said, suddenly choked up. “That’s one of the most beautiful things a person can be.”

“I am a poet, Julian, of course I am crying!” Avra wailed. “A poet’s whole job is to celebrate sluts and cry about beautiful things coming to tragic, untimely ends!”