'LISTLESS' Book Extract by Neal Darken Trellis.

READ or LISTEN to this extract from latest book by controversial American author NEAL DARKEN TRELLIS.

BOOKS! BOOKS! BOOKS!

I awake to the sight of the ghost of my Father watching TV news on the couch, gesturing wordlessly at some information the plastic faced presenters are relaying – a man and a woman – keeping their faces in front of the camera their sole concern. Super cool music plays. I’m Gonna Give You It All [Except Any Love Whatsoever] by Female Narcissist as I step naked from the bed, my Father’s face a ghostly billboard of regret at the lives that will forever remain unlived – or will they?

I don’t have the answers.

I change the channel to wrestling. Some pay per view from the early 90’s. Pro wrestling sucks now – as my Father vanishes in a mist. It’s 11:30. The bars will be open. My boyfriend calls from the bathroom, ready to record the podcast. Today’s topic ‘Gentleness is power’ – a philosophical debate voiced by the two of us, the camera trained on our penises, as if they are two University Professors.

I open the blinds and stare down into the City – every human a walking sales pitch, chasing some feeling. This one fact forever eluding their grasp – feelings are momentary. Nothing lasts I say out loud as my Father re-appears with a second ghost – an attractive woman, younger than him, sold on his bullshit. My Father stares at me, gesturing toward the bedroom, the implication obvious.

I sigh, nod my assent and head for the bathroom.

My boyfriend in the steam. His name Taylor. Maybe Josh.

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