Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 3/30 - Hyper

I had a great moment as I exited the building for my morning walk just after six AM. A lovely young woman who lives on the opposite side was just getting home. We’ve never said a word to each but she often smiles while passing the floating book shop. I’d guess she is 20. She has such a way about her, lugging a heavy bag slung across her shoulder, which I imagine is laden with textbooks, tilting slightly left as she walks. We smiled at each other as we passed. As soon as she was inside, a car pulled away. I envy that young man.

I hadn’t had a vivid dream in a while. In my latest I eagerly joined a parade, only to find, to my disappointment, that it was a group of homosexual males. There’s no mystery what inspired it, as the issue of gay marriage has dominated the news the past week. Even Rush Limbaugh has thrown in the towel on the fight against it. Soon I was rushing to the aid of a beautiful woman who had engine trouble in an underground garage. A car full of young men approached and asked where the nearest exit was. There was an opening nearby but signs warned that it was illegal to use it. I suppose this too had something to do with the issue in question. Finally, I saw a past love in bed with another man. She smiled at me. It hurt. This also fit the overall theme, as she has lived with both men and women.

Although I’ve finished the latest round of work on my fifth book, Exchanges, I’m still wound up, hyper. I suppose I will be until the novel is in print or publication cancelled. In the mean time, I will resume proofing my near 200,000 word rock n roll epic, Rising Star. I have less than 30 pages to go. I can also pick up a novel I’d recently begun, one of great promise, which I’ll report on when I’m done. Things are looking up. I had another good day selling books, and the weather has moderated. My thanks to today's buyers, especially the Latina who purchased two religious-themed books and said: "Dios que te bendiga." Likewise, madam.
Vic's Third Novel (Print or Kindle): http://tinyurl.com/7e9jty3
Vic's Website: http://members.tripod.com/vic_fortezza/Literature/
Vic's Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic's 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic's 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic's Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3

Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 3/29 - Good Friday

Well, I managed to sleep until five AM this morning before my literary subconscious woke me. I quickly did the daily exercises for my back, chowed down on Honey Nut Cherrios, and went to work cleaning the file of Exchanges, which the publisher of WheelMan press was gracious enough to send me. I did about half and had to tear myself away from my desk for my morning walk. So obsessed was I with finishing the chore that I gave the guy at the newsstand a five dollar bill and hurried away without my change. I was about to sit down at my PC when I realized what I'd done. As I made my way back, I resolved not to raise a stink if the guy didn't return the money. I just wouldn't buy the paper there any more, as I stopped doing next door when that guy tried to short change me and other customers. He has since been replaced. Well, the guy in question had the four bucks set aside, waiting for me. I thanked him, explaining that my mind was preoccupied. Anyway, I completed the task and emailed the file back to the publisher. Now my worry is whether some of the corrections will again be skewed by the conversion from my program, Microsoft Works, to Word. For some reason errors occur, especially in spacing. Maybe now it will be clean enough to go to print.

There is a choice tidbit in the NY Post today: Alex Rodriguez will earn more in 2013, 29 million, than the entire Astros team, 25 million. And Arod will miss at least half the season. What a country!

And there is more fun in the editorial section. Our nanny, Mayor Bloomberg, is proposing a law to end the discounting of certain brands of cigarettes so that all will be sold at the same price, which he believes will force many smokers to quit. The editors ask why the same logic isn't used in the minimum wage issue. Many economists believe raising the wage to nine dollars an hour will be a job killer. Of course, the city council, ever pandering, pooh-poohs this.

I finally learned the name of the guy who lives in the apartment next door, which he shares with his 20-something son. Serge and I have been greeting each other for years. He asked me to recommend a book. I couldn't resist handing him the huge hard cover edition of Tom Wolfe's The Bonfire of the Vanities. He recognized the title from a DVD in his collection, and bought it. That kick-started a much better than average day of sales. Mrs. Eclectic finally showed and apologized for having had me sit on the last of my stock of the culinary mysteries show loves. She bought eight novels, including one issued by Scholastic for her daughter. Then I got even luckier. I was about to close shop when a lively elderly woman who has purchased books in the past approached and asked my advice on apartment hunting. Hers was flooded during Hurricane Sandy, and she has been living with a friend as her landlord dawdles in his repair work. She wants to draft a letter to protect herself in breaking the lease. I suppressed a chuckle as she had trouble pronouncing "uninhabitable." I wrote it down on a piece of paper. Anyway, while we were speaking, a gentleman noticed the medical textbooks I had on display and jumped on them when I told him the price. I must have sold 20 pounds worth of books today. Thanks, folks.
Vic's Third Novel (Print or Kindle): http://tinyurl.com/7e9jty3
Vic's Website: http://members.tripod.com/vic_fortezza/Literature/
Vic's Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic's 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic's 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic's Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3

Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 3/28 - Grenade

The ‘70’s were a turbulent time in America and, of course, it was reflected in the films of the era. Icons of the past were cast in a dubious light, and anti-establishment types became heroes. Although many outstanding films were made then, it’s not one of my favorite periods artistically or politically. Last night THIS-TV, channel 111 on Cablevision in NYC, ran Chato’s Land (1972), which for some reason I’d never seen, which is odd, as it stars one of my favorite cinema tough guys, Charles Bronson or, as I call him, Buchinsky, his real name. Of Lithuanian descent, he worked in a Pennsylvania coal mine at 16, following his brothers. He was a tail-gunner on a B-52 during WWII and was awarded a Purple Heart for wounds suffered in combat. He was a natural for the movie roles he undertook. Legendary director John Huston described his persona as “a grenade with the pin pulled.” In Chato’s Land he plays a half-breed on the run from a posse of white men, most of whom are bigots, savages and fools. In what may have been a parable of Vietnam, he dispatches them one by one once they enter his harsh southwestern homeland. The supporting cast is stellar: Jack Palance plays a former southern officer who breaks out his uniform for a chase that obviously invigorates him; James Whitmore; Simon Oakland; Richard Jordan; Victor French; and Ralph Waite, the dad on TV’s The Waltons, who is chilling in his portrayal of pure, sober evil. One of the film’s strengths is its spare dialogue. Bronson says little in English, most of his lines coming in an Indian dialect that is probably Apache. Nothing occurs that isn’t believable. Its grittiness is another strength. It pulls no punches. It was directed by Michael Winner, who helmed the Death Wish series, which also starred Bronson. On a scale of five, I rate it 3.25. It is rated 6.4 of ten at IMDb. Bronson was about 50 during the filming. He appears shirtless through much of the story. He must have been one of the first actors to train religiously. He had the leanness of a gymnast.

I realized recently that ABC’s Zero Hour, a DaVinci Code-like show,  has not returned to the schedule. It was cancelled after just three episodes. I’m not surprised. Although it moved crisply, it wasn’t very good. It didn’t have even a hint of freshness about it.

I just finished proofing the publisher's file of my fifth book, Exchanges. I found 49 errors, 16 of which involve improper spacing. All I can do is point them out and hope he fixes them.




The floating book shop was closed today as I accompanied a friend to the doctor. It will return manana.
Vic's Third Novel (Print or Kindle): http://tinyurl.com/7e9jty3
Vic's Website: http://members.tripod.com/vic_fortezza/Literature/
Vic's Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic's 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic's 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic's Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3

Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 3/27 - Crabby

For the past two days I've been unable to sleep past 4:30AM. I knew this would happen as soon as WheelMan Press sent me the file of my fifth book, Exchanges, to review and approve. I am again reminded of the classic episode of the Little Rascals where Jackie Cooper is suspended from school, regrets his bad behavior, and is hounded by his conscience, which repeats the phrase: "Learn that poem; learn that poem." The only way Miss Crabtree will permit him to return to class is if he will recite the piece in front of his peers. He surrenders and suffers the humiliation, balling as he recites. These days Miss Crabtree would be fired for assigning such a task. There must be a voice in my head saying something similar. I've proofed 265 pages so far, and found 32 errors, nine of which are improper spacing, which sometimes occurs in Adobe. I've encountered it in my work with my literary angel, Victoria Valentine, in preparing my novels Adjustments and Killing. When people have asked me if writing is an obsession, I've said no. It only feels like it in the last stages of getting a book into print. I'm tempted to overlook some of the errors. In two instances a paragraph's last sentence has dropped down to create a new paragraph. I'd bet 99% of readers wouldn't notice or care. There are two instances where Char1ey is spelled with the number one rather than a small l. This is a remnant of when I scanned the original paper manuscript I'd done on a typewriter. Do I let these go so that the publisher will have less work? No, because there will probably be errors I've missed, and the less the better. I'm still waiting to hear whether any of my nieces has a full Adobe program that would allow me to make the changes myself, if the publisher okays it. Since he is financing the book, he might want total control of that aspect, which is understandable. 145 pages to go.

I had a nice surprise today when Susan, one of my best customers, showed. She spends five months a year in Thailand, where her sons live with their families. Although it was about 50 degrees, she complained about the cold. It was hot in that Asian paradise. True to form, she went for the off-beat, purchasing Emily Arsenault's In Search of the Rose Notes.Thank you, ma'am, and to my three other customers. I kept the session to two hours, anxious to get back to proof-reading.
Vic's Third Novel (Print or Kindle): http://tinyurl.com/7e9jty3
Vic's Website: http://members.tripod.com/vic_fortezza/Literature/
Vic's Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic's 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic's 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic's Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3

Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 3/26 - Errors

The good news: I received a file for my fourth novel, Exchanges, from WheelMan Press, which requires my approval before it goes to press. The bad news: I've found 17 errors in the first 120 pages. I'm reviewing it in Adobe format. Many of the corrections I submitted two months ago were not done. New errors have cropped up - spacing, reverse or misplaced quotation marks. I assume the publisher was unable to find the previous corrections, as our Word programs probably do not match up. My Adobe program is read only. I can't make the corrections myself on my PC. I'm not even sure the publisher would allow it. I've asked my nieces if they have the program. If one does, I will request to do the corrections myself. If that is denied, I will submit another list, which I've been amassing in long hand for now. There shouldn't be any difference from an Adobe file on my PC and any other, so the errors should be easier to pin out. My worry is that the publisher will lose patience with me and back out of the deal. It would be in our best interests to issue the cleanest product possible. This will probably delay publication further.

Political Man visited the floating book shop today. He is very excited about the Supreme Court's review of the gay marriage issue. Approval is coming, if not now, in the near future. Those of us who believe marriage is between a man and woman are dying off. Most of the young have already been converted. Will it be another nail in America's coffin or is it another step forward in civil rights? Time will tell. I don't care what consenting adults do in their bedrooms, but I will never accept some of those practices as good or right. I might respect everything about a person but his sexual proclivities. I doubt I'll ever be comfortable in the presence of a male homosexual. I always hope Political Man will leave quickly, although I bear him no ill will. I feel the same way about Ol' Smokey, a heterosexual, who stopped by for about an hour today. I always sense he scares away potential customers. He was in rare form, gabbing non-stop and largely nonsensically for at least an hour. At least he wasn't coughing up a storm. That always has me covering my mouth discreetly. For the past month he's been picking up free supplies from St. Mark's. I feel sorry for him, but I'm always relieved when he leaves.

A friend suggested I set up shop elsewhere, as the neighborhood has a vast Jewish population and Passover has begun. I'm glad I did not heed her advice, as business was better than usual. My thanks to the folks who bought books, especially to woman who chose the huge pictorial on the Japanese earthquake and tsunami, and the gentleman who purchased the humongous text on emergency care.
Vic's Third Novel (Print or Kindle): http://tinyurl.com/7e9jty3
Vic's Website: http://members.tripod.com/vic_fortezza/Literature/
Vic's Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic's 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic's 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic's Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3

Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 3/25 - Sportsmen

Last year I was convinced that Tiger Woods would never again dominate professional golf. I was sure he would win a tournament here and there, but no more than others on the tour. It now looks as if he has regained his dominance, winning the Arnold Palmer sponsored event this past weekend, his third already this year - in only five starts! He is again the number one ranked player in the world. He had fallen as low as 58th. And he's dating Olympic skier Lindsey Vonn. Will he blow it all again? It's not easy to change.

The Yankees, reeling from injuries to aging stars, have made a move that smacks of their pre-revival years. They have acquired 34-year-old outfielder Vernon Wells, who is owed millions on the long-term contract he signed years ago, before his skills began to fade. He hit .218 and .230 the past two years, and his on-base-percentage was an atrocious .248 and .279. .350 is a decent number in the latter category, .400 the standard. Does this mark the Skanks' descent to mediocrity, or will Wells do what so many who have donned the pinstripes have done, rebound to good numbers? As a Yankees hater and fatalist, my hunch is it will be the latter. Their pitching is still top notch. The San Francisco Giants have won two World Series recently without much offense. There's no reason the Yankees can't, although their defense has also been terrible this Spring.

Is coaching at the Division I level in the NCAA a tough gig? The University of Minnesota fired Tubby Smith today after six seasons and a 124-81 record. Overall, in 22 seasons, his teams have gone 511-226, a winning percentage near 70%. His teams have gone to the big dance 17 times, posting a record of 30-16. His 1998 squad at Kentucky won the national championship. As the cliche goes: "What have you done for me lately?"

Let's have a show of hands - who had Florida Gulf Coast University advancing to the Sweet 16? I wonder if any of the school's own students picked them to win one game, let alone two. Despite the number of fake student-athletes involved, March Madness is still great Americana.

RIP Ray Williams, 58, former Knick guard during a lean period, who succumbed to cancer. He had a world of talent but played as sloppily as he lived life, although it sometimes seemed his teammates just couldn't keep up with the speed at which he was capable of playing.

The floating book shop fell victim to the weather today, which spurred me to the dreaded chore of car inspection. There were no problems, unlike last year's massive hit. I have only two major chores left - the dentist and a new pair of reading glasses. If I get off lucky with the first, I'll take care of the second on the next rainy day. If the forecast is correct, the weather should be decent the rest of the week.
Vic's Third Novel (Print or Kindle): http://tinyurl.com/7e9jty3
Vic's Website: http://members.tripod.com/vic_fortezza/Literature/
Vic's Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic's 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic's 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic's Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3

Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 3/24 - Glimmers

When the film Compliance (2012) arrived from Netflix, I assumed it would be about the financial world, as there is a department under that title at the Commodity Exchange in Manhattan, where I worked for almost 25 years. To my surprise, it is an engrossing thriller set in a fictional fast food restaurant. Although the story line strains credulity halfway through, I was still interested for its entire 90-minute running time. Kudos to director/screenwriter Craig Zobel, who proves a good movie can be made on a miniscule budget. The extras feature an interview of him, in which he states the events are based on actual incidents and influenced by tests psychologists have conducted. Despite these claims, I didn’t believe the characters would be quite so gullible, at least within the parameters of this particular story, despite stress, the possibility of job loss, and the consumption of a few beers. The only other tact would have been turning the tables on the villain, without him knowing it, from the midpoint. The casting is first-rate. I recognized Ann Dowd, who plays the manager, from numerous appearances on TV, especially the Law & Order incarnations. She has the look of many of the supervisory employees I’ve seen in such establishments. Dreama Walker, the young cashier, is perfect in her role. She'd fit right in behind the counter of the McDonalds that serves me every Saturday. The film is rated 6.5 on a scale of ten at IMDb. I rate it three of five. I looked forward to Zobel’s future work.

Well, I finally broke down, gave in. After not hearing for six weeks from WheelHouse Press, which is to publish my fifth book, fourth novel, Exchanges, I sent an email asking what was what. I should be getting a file for final approval within ten days. I hope it doesn’t turn into another marathon of waiting.

I’m glad I didn’t fill out a bracket for the NCAA tournament this year. I would have had Gonzaga advancing to the Final Four. 

I had my first above-average session of the floating book shop in a while. Maryann bought four sci-fi paperbacks and a nice lady purchased a Bible as soon as I'd set up. Later, I got real lucky when a guy who had double-parked came out of the bank and said to his girlfriend in the passenger seat, pointing in my direction: "Books." She bought the copy of Sweet Dreams that a mental defective dampened a few days ago. I reduced the price to five bucks. I don't think the author, my literary angel January Valentine, will mind. She once said to give it away free to anyone who wanted it. The Sicilian in me will not allow that. Thanks, folks.
Vic's Third Novel (Print or Kindle): http://tinyurl.com/7e9jty3
Vic's Website: http://members.tripod.com/vic_fortezza/Literature/
Vic's Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic's 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic's 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic's Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3

Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 3/23 - Garden

For the first time in more than a week I did not have to suffer the cold for my art. It was actually pleasant outside. My thanks to Jack and the elderly woman who bought thrillers by James Patterson and Paul Coelho respectively. I'm four-fifths of the way through the proofing of my rock n roll epic, Rising Star. Here's another excerpt, the band's first appearance at Madison Square Garden, a less than five-minute read. There will be a footnote at the end about the quote that precedes the chapter. Who is the artist? 
39                            "...Sometimes to be near you is to be unable to hear you...."*

    The night of their lives finally arrived. Suddenly, after a couple of dress rehearsals, they were in the wings at Madison Square Garden, the buzz of a packed house in the background. Susan was chain-smoking, Goldberg pacing, the band staring vacantly at the floor. The silence backstage was acute, separate from the hubbub of the arena, as if they were different, alien, incompatible worlds.
   "Is this real?" said Mitchell -- "twenty thousand people here to see us?"
   John shook his head. "No. Real is layin' bricks or moppin' floors or haulin' mail or drivin' a rig. This's make believe."
   "What's there to be nervous about?" said Richie. "We already won. We're here, ain't we? Let's show the bastids why."
   Susan was not convinced by their bravado and camaraderie, by the boasting of Mike, who seemed as terrified as he'd been the night at the Beacon. Suddenly the band seemed ordinary, and she was sure the crowd would see through the fraud. She was unable to imagine them commanding the large stage, winning over a tough New York City audience. Even John, who'd donned a T-shirt emblazoned with the sponsor's logo, seemed common, despite his physique, which was glowing due to sessions at a tanning salon. She regretted not having insisted they adopt the styles of the genre. Mitchell was dressed like a preppie. Mike, free of drugs, had reverted to the style of the Brooklyn wise guy, jewelry all about him. Richie and Paul, who was wearing a baseball cap to cover his grays, were so casually attired as to be nondescript. None had the same hair style. Only John's was the length of metal musicians. They seemed individuals rather than a group. No wonder Gordon had wanted them to seek new management. Music was not enough to hold the young these days. She feared the sponsor, an electronics manufacturer, would drop them.
   Paul closed his eyes and tried to chase the feeling that he was in the wrong place, lost. Suddenly they were told to take the stage. His legs were leaden. He followed the others on instinct, as if he were in the last phase of a long race and near collapse. The others, even Mike, ran out howling like a high school football team bursting from its locker room on game day. The roar of the crowd descended upon them like a strong wind. Paul gazed at the sea of bodies, awed. Arms were waving in the upper reaches, where he was unable to discern a single face. Curiously, those before the stage seemed clearer than ever before -- and all seemed to be staring at him. He shook his head, trying to clear it, mouth hanging open dumbly. He feared he was going to be sick right there on stage before the full house. He heard John speaking but did not understand a word, as if it were a foreign language. Suddenly they were performing. Somehow he kept pace, even though he would have been hard pressed to name the song. It was as if he'd been hypnotized, without will or personality of his own. And none of the others even noticed his uncharacteristic fog. His lead was being cheered, although it seemed it was being performed by someone else. It was as if he were apart from the scene, observing himself at a speed running slightly slower than life wherein every movement was painfully evident.
   He made eye contact with Mitchell, who winked, all animosity forgotten in the moment. Mitchell nodded toward Mike, who was flitting about excitedly. "He's gonna be all right," he mouthed.
   Suddenly Paul was free of the spell under which he'd fallen. The faces of those before him blurred. The music and lyrics were familiar. His legs unlocked. The world again was moving at its normal rate of speed. He flushed with shame. Fortunately, he hadn't time to dwell on it. He understood what Mike had experienced at the Beacon. He was glad no one would ever know he'd choked.
   *Stevie Nicks - Edge of Seventeen

As I was channel surfing last night, I came across yet another great music documentary on PBS, this one on the legendary Les Paul, hosted by his long-time rhythm guitarist, Lou Pallo, and featuring many guest appearances, familiar and unfamiliar. Pallo is described as “the man of a million chords.” Here is a clip of a duet with Slash, real not fictional musicians. It features only a still of the Guns n Roses front man. Just close your and eyes and listen to the beauty they create. It’s less than three minutes:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YPqFMMTPE8
Vic's Third Novel (Print or Kindle): http://tinyurl.com/7e9jty3
Vic's Website: http://members.tripod.com/vic_fortezza/Literature/
Vic's Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic's 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic's 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic's Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3

Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 3/22 - Notes

Emily Arsenault has written three novels. I just finished In Search of the Rose Notes. Although it is a dreadful title, the book shows great promise. It is the story of a teenage girl, presumed dead, a decade after her disappearance. I would not classify it as a mystery, as it has a lot more substance and is much more grounded in realism than most books of the genre. There is only one crime and nothing occurs in the narrative that strains credulity. The characters are intricately realized and thoroughly believable. The prose and dialogue are fine. My only criticism is that is drawn out. It could have been tighter. Its 369 pages did not fly by. Then again, perhaps I'd been expecting a typical mystery, and this novel is so much more. Curious, I checked out the sales rankings, print and Kindle, of Arsenault's three books at Amazon, and was surprised to find them relatively paltry, way better than mine, but not much for someone published by a major house. That is often the case with serious work. I hope she isn't discouraged. In Search of the Rose Notes is the work of someone who wishes to create literature. On a scale of five, I rate it 3.25.

There was an amusing moment during today's session of the floating book shop. A man of about 30 approached and asked, in a thick accent, if I knew where the office of the doctors who treat people with mental problems was. I directed him to a building around the corner, although I wasn't sure it was the one he was seeking. I laughed to myself, wondering if the fact that I was selling books on the street on such a frigid day had him assume I was a fellow traveler. It certainly felt like insanity standing there in the wind. I also had a brief visit from the author of Ghost Runners and The White Bridge, Bob Rubenstein, who pulled his car along the bus stop. Almost 70, he has met a Hungarian immigrant and plans to marry. He will travel to her country to meet her parents. Good luck, Bob, and my thanks the Mrs. Eclectic's husband, who purchased a book on grammar, and to the young man who bought the large print Bible. If the forecast is correct, there will be relief at last from the weather tomorrow. It was a tough week to sell books outdoors - but tough compared to what? Most people with real jobs have it tougher than me.
Vic's Third Novel (Print or Kindle): http://tinyurl.com/7e9jty3
Vic's Website: http://members.tripod.com/vic_fortezza/Literature/
Vic's Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic's 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic's 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic's Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3

Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 3/21 - Concerns

I love the Bourne films, despite my dislike of Matt Damon’s ultra-liberal politics. I caught up to the most recent, The Bourne Legacy (2012), the other night, courtesy of Netflix. I enjoyed it as much as any of the others, although only Damon’s photograph appears in this version. Jeremy Renner, whose politics I know nothing about and hope I never know, takes over the lead, playing another agent in the program, of which the CIA wants to eliminate all traces, including civilians. Conservative pundits have labeled the films anti-American. I look at them as popcorn entertainment with little relationship to the real world. Only partisans would dissect such fare in search of meaning. I doubt the viewing of  it would create converts to either side of the political divide. The previous entry premiered in 2007, when George Bush was still president, which makes me question Damon’s reason for not continuing in the role now that a leader he prefers is in the White House. That is a consequence of activism. I’ve always enjoyed Bruce Springsteen’s music, but these days it has been tainted for me by his ardent support of President Obama. I know that isn’t a good thing, but it’s undeniable. Anyway, the film features the slam-bang action sequences that characterized the others, culminating in a breathtaking chase through the streets of Manila, beginning on foot and continuing on motorcycles and in cars. Is this entry better or worse than the others? I’m not sure. They’re now all a blur except for an image here and there. I know only that I enjoyed each. The film was directed by Tony Gilroy, who wrote the screenplay for each version. Will there be a fifth? It earned 276 million worldwide on a budget estimated at 125 million. It is rated 6.7 out of ten at IMDb. I agree, rating it 3.25 out of five.

I have three safety concerns while operating the floating book shop: an out of control vehicle, a thug who may get ideas at the sight of an exchange of cash, and mental defectives. The third was in play today. As I was lugging the crates from my trunk to my usual nook, a guy who seemed in his early thirties, in shabby clothes, started looking through the books. I didn't say a word to him as I laid my non-fiction out along the ledge of the garden that surrounds the apartment building. He was fixated on a pictorial about Japan's recent earthquake and tsunami. When I was fully set up, I pulled it from his grasp, and he went on his way. A couple of hours later, while I was seated in my car, out of the cold, he returned. This time he picked up a novel by January Valentine, my literary angel. As he was leafing through it, droplets started to fall onto the page. Yuck. I assumed his nose was running. I soon realized that his wool cap, which was beneath a hood, was soaking wet. I was pissed and unsure what to do. I was tempted to punch him in the face, but the man is obviously sick. And what if he were carrying a knife? I chose to hope he would soon grow bored and leave. No such luck. He was halfway through the book, apparently spotting pages deliberately with water, before I summoned the resolve to speak: "You're ruining my book, man. That's not right." I took it from him and again he went on his way. Soon, as snow flurries intensified, I decided to close shop. As I was hauling the crates to my open trunk, the guy returned and circled the car. I was certain he was going to steal a book and make a run for it. I didn't care, as long as it wasn't one of mine or January's. Fortunately, he left empty handed. I hope he isn't going to take up permanent residence in the neighborhood.

My thanks to the middle age woman who purchased Frank McCourt's memoir of his days in the NYC public school system, Teacher Man, my only sale of the past three days. I hope it's not indicative of the overall state of the economy. It's happened before, so likely it's not. Several of my regulars are MIA. Mrs. Eclectic's husband said she doesn't like to venture out into the cold. Maybe it's just the weather. It's been either rain or snow, or high wind on sunny days. Conditions have not been easy for more than a week. Strong gusts are forecast for tomorrow. Enough already.
Vic's Third Novel (Print or Kindle): http://tinyurl.com/7e9jty3
Vic's Website: http://members.tripod.com/vic_fortezza/Literature/
Vic's Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic's 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic's 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic's Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3

Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 3/20 - Tuned

Ten years ago a “coalition of the willing” took on the responsibility of deposing Saddam Hussein from Iraq and trying to steer the country toward Democracy. The success or failure of the effort is still undetermined. In an op-ed piece in yesterday’s NY Post, Amir Tahiri, who always looks on the bright side of Middle East issues, said there is hope. There are more than 100 newspapers debating the fate of the nation. The many factions argue openly. This is what free societies do, and these signs are encouraging. On the other, the citizens continue to suffer the bombings of troglodytes. 56 were killed in the most recent attack. Ralph Peters, a retired Colonel also syndicated in the Post, believes Iraq is now a puppet of Iran. Which of these views is correct? Stay tuned. History is constantly evolving.

The Cyprian government has retreated from its plan of confiscating a percentage of the savings of those who have accounts in the country’s banks. The citizenry howled in protest. The people want universal health care and generous pensions, and want others to pay for it. Even an island nation of only 1.1 million has trouble financing Socialism. In his column in yesterday’s Post, John Crudele argued that confiscation of savings is already occurring in America. He explained that Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke’s strategy of keeping interests rates low to spur the economy is hurting those who prefer the safety of a savings account, most of which are earning about one-percent these days, and forcing people to put their money where it might garner the greatest return, the stock market. When a government eagerly distributes money to 47% of its citizens, it must find creative ways to gain revenue. If a tax on savings accounts is ever enacted here, don’t expect it to be done fairly, across the board, the same percentage for everyone. This is the great battle being waged in America today, and the left has been gaining since Lyndon Johnson’s Great Society programs went into effect. It’s doubtful the tide will ever be reversed. Can it be managed at a reasonable level that won’t bankrupt the country? Stay tuned. Politicians are always devolving.

My thanks to Old Simon, who made a large donation of books today, including three Bibles, one in Spanish. Unfortunately, for the second consecutive day no one bought anything.
Vic's Third Novel (Print or Kindle): http://tinyurl.com/7e9jty3
Vic's Website: http://members.tripod.com/vic_fortezza/Literature/
Vic's Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic's 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic's 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic's Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3

Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 3/19 - Family

It’s always creepy going to a wake. Last night was no different. Anthony, aka Weegee, 59, passed away this week from heart complications. His family lived across the street from mine. My stoop was a magnet for night time gatherings. How I wish those conversations had been filmed. What a laugh riot they would be. I hadn’t seen Alfred, Anthony’s brother, who is two weeks older than me, since the 70's. A Vietnam vet, he had a great job as a sound man at CBS, retired and re-located to Florida. I was closer to Anthony. In fact, Alfred and I once had a fight in the middle of the street that his father broke up, fortunately. It’s amazing how much he now looks like his dad. I was worried that Impy and Louie Tish, who now live in Staten Island, would stay home because of the snow. I was thrilled that they showed. I see Impy regularly. He has been battered by the loss of so many of his friends the past five years. Just last month Basil, only 51, died of a stroke. I hadn’t see Lou since perhaps 1988, when he moved from Bay 37th. He’s running his own electrical supply business, having learned it from his dad and uncles, who learned it from their immigrant father. I still remember his grandma, Mary, who always asked about my mom. Lou and I were avid readers, me of the most serious fiction, he of philosophy and psychology. I miss the conversations we used to have and wish they too were on tape. I suspect we were pretty full of ourselves back then. These days we realize life is a bittersweet mystery whose most fundamental questions have no concrete answers. I’m kicking myself today for not having asked if he were still a strict Freudian. I also wonder, since he is a businessman affected by public policy, what he thinks of Mayor Bloomberg. I remember how surprised I was when he praised the job Ed Koch was doing. I was even more cynical about politicians then than today, which is hard to believe. His kids are now in their 30’s. His mom and dad are gone, as is the case with most of our contemporaries. We were disappointed that Freddie, who looks like Saddam Hussein, did not show. He is living in Jersey and was no doubt deterred by the weather. Fortunately, reports say he is finally clean and sober. I remember seeing him staggering along the sidewalk like a drunk seen only in movies. I felt so sorry for his family, who were such beautiful people. His sister Vera was my first love. Every day I’d tell him: “Tell Vera I like her.” I’m not sure why we used “like” instead of “love” back then, maybe because the latter sounded so serious. I was surprised that Fran, who I worked with for a few years before she left the Exchange, knew Anthony. Tragically, her husband died suddenly, very young. Sue, one of my best customers, also attended. The first time she approached the floating book shop I asked if she were related to the family. I also met, for the first time, Anthony’s burly son, whose head is shaved, and his beautiful daughter, who looks so much like him. Of course, when attending such an event, there is always other bad news. Joey, 52, the youngest of the five brothers, is in a rehab facility in Florida. He suffered a fall and had to have spinal surgery. He can barely move and faces a tough road in a body weakened by a freewheeling lifestyle. We also learned that Bobby, the next youngest, has been ostracized for draining their mother’s financial accounts. Steven, the eldest, has heart problems and could not make the trip north. It was a bittersweet night. Now I wonder if Tish and I have seen each other for the last time in this life. I hope he likes Killing, the novel I’m most proud of.





I set up the floating book shop a couple of hours later than usual, as the rain lasted past noon. Unfortunately, there were no buyers. At least the sun came out as I was leaving. And I bagged the most favorable parking spot to cover the next two days. The crates have become very heavy in  the wake of all the donations the past two weeks. I'll only have to lug them a few feet.
Vic's Third Novel (Print or Kindle): http://tinyurl.com/7e9jty3
Vic's Website: http://members.tripod.com/vic_fortezza/Literature/
Vic's Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic's 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic's 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic's Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3

Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 3/18 - Frustration

There is frustration in every walk of life. Most of the time it's shrugged off. Once in a while it's really annoying. I'm at that point right now. It's been about six weeks since I last heard from the publisher of WheelMan Press. My fourth novel, fifth book, was close to being issued. I haven't contacted him, knowing how time-consuming the literary life is. Why do something that might annoy him to the point where he would drop the book? It isn't easy to get any book published, let alone one as off-beat as Exchanges. I've been speculating about the causes of the delay. Maybe he's seen the light and decided to close shop. Maybe he's ill or worse. The last book he published was on February 24th, a novel on Kindle. Usually, the print version follows a few days later. Maybe he's lost his day job and run out of money. It wouldn't be the end of the world if the book isn't published. I have four others to promote and sell. I've been stockpiling cash in my Paypal account in order to buy copies of the new novel. I could always save that to buy copies of the others when needed. Since I only have two copies of Close to the Edge, I haven't brought it out, as I want to have all five books on display at once. I'll sit on it until Exchanges is issued or I'm told it will not be. It wouldn't be as cool as having five books out there, but it would still be cool.

At seven I will head to the wake of my old friend Anthony, aka Weegee. One good thing about it, I'm expecting to see people I haven't seen in decades, weather permitting. Some will be driving from Jersey and Staten Island and may pass once the snow starts falling. What do I do if people ask about my books? Do I say I have copies in the car? It wouldn't be appropriate, would it? Then again, the likelihood of people following up and buying on the web is remote. That's happened so many times. Sometimes life has a special way of mocking an individual.

And now for the most frustrating aspect of all -- the weather. If I hadn't bagged the most favorable parking spot yesterday, I wouldn't have been able to operate the floating book shop today. Spring is taking its sweet time arriving. The constant cold wind and the dearth of sunshine are wearing me out. I was so relieved when Lev pulled his van into a spot across the street, paid the meter and approached. I knew he would buy Jerusalem: The Biography by Simon Sebag Montefiore. He also bought Dean Koontz's Breathless. He finds the author an easy read, which he prefers, since English isn't his first language. As usual, he overpaid. Also proving that it is best to be out there despite the weather, Justin, a local porter, donated five books, two on the English language, and three huge medical-related texts. I also got a chance to repay a little of the debt I owe Marie, who has donated so many CDs and VHS tapes, by giving her a copy of a book on spirituality, a subject she loves. Thanks, folks, and also to the gentleman who bought the two science-related books on Bay Parkway yesterday, when I was too bummed to blog.
Vic's Third Novel (Print or Kindle): http://tinyurl.com/7e9jty3
Vic's Website: http://members.tripod.com/vic_fortezza/Literature/
Vic's Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic's 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic's 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic's Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3

Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 3.16 - Weegee

We called him Weegee. I'm not sure how he came by the nickname, but it fit, maybe because he was short. Today I received the sad news that he has succumbed to a heart attack. He was a few years younger than me, one of five brothers, Steven the oldest, Alfred two week older than me, Bobby next in line, Joe the youngest. Weegee, Anthony his given name, had boundless energy. He leaped headlong into the freewheeling philosophy of the sixties. He was the first guy I saw in ballooning bell bottom pants. He was a teller of outrageous, often hilarious tall tales tales, a mover and shaker and a deal-maker. The last time I saw him, pre-1988 when I was living in Bay Ridge, he was seated in a parked car in serious discussion with another guy. He pretended not to see me. I walked on, reluctant to interrupt whatever scheme he was cooking up. About ten years ago I heard he'd been diagnosed with MS. Although the cause of that dreaded affliction is still a mystery, I suspected it was brought, at least in this case, by years of hard partying. I am amazed at how many of the males from my neighborhood, most of them five to ten years younger than me, have passed away in the past decade. There was another just last month, brought down by a stroke. I am convinced that it is the by product of the license introduced in the late 60's and early 70's, although I've not heard of a death count such as this in other areas of the country. I am almost numb, so commonplace has it become. Of course, part of this is due to the coming to grips with my own mortality. Now 62, I offer thanks many mornings upon awakening, and I do so not to God but just because I'm thrilled to have an opportunity to enjoy another day, to accomplish something. Here's a picture of the Weegee I'll always remember, at the top of the pyramid, the terrified look on his face priceless:

Here's one of him years later, shirtless, looking like a rock star, in the company of Kenny and Louie Tish, who is slyly flexing one of his massive biceps:

Sorry it's so small. I goofed somehow in uploading it to Facebook. It was taken at a Bay 37th block party in the 70's by my good friend Billy, who passed away just before Thanksgiving. He wasn't a casualty of the freewheeling 60's but of family history. I think of him frequently and get pissed that such a good person was taken far too soon. I guess it's further illustration of how fortunate those of us who are still breathing are.
Rest in peace, Anthony.
The floating book shop was derailed by snow flurries today. Back at 'em manana.
Visit Vic's sites:
Vic's Third Novel (Print or Kindle): http://tinyurl.com/7e9jty3
Vic's Website: http://members.tripod.com/vic_fortezza/Literature/
Vic's Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic's 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic's 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic's Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3

Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 3/15 - Made Men

I had a pleasant surprise last night watching Person of Interest. One of the guest stars was Michael Rispoli, playing, as he so often has, a criminal. Mike was a member of the Willow Cabin Theater Company, which did off-Broadway plays. A life-long friend of mine, John, was also in the company, as was his future wife, Verna. I saw at least five of the shows, perhaps as many as ten. I first recall Mike in the role of a dying Scottish seaman, employing a brogue, doing a significant part of the piece from a hammock. I was always impressed with his work and I’m not surprised he has made it in the business. I also recall one role that required him to grab Verna’s crotch. When I asked John about it after the show, he laughed it off. I don’t think I could be married to an actress. Anyway, Mike has 72 credits listed at IMDb, not counting recurring appearances on series such as The Sopranos. He’s been on all the Law and Order incarnations. He has shared screen time with Nicole Kidman, Sandra Bullock, Matt Damon and Nicolas Cage. I  found him to be down to earth, which he is able to translate to the screen. Well done, sir.

Another of John’s contemporaries, who I believe also served a brief stint in Willow Cabin, is William Fichtner, whose success is even greater than Mike’s. Although he is listed as having fewer credits, 65, he was a regular on Prison Break, which shot 89 episodes. He was the lead on Invasion, 22 episodes, and also put in time on Entourage, MDs and Grace Under Fire. He was blown away by Robert DeNiro while watching a televised hockey game in Heat (1995). I met him only once, briefly, probably in the early 90’s. John said it was rumored that Bill was having an affair with a well-known Hollywood beauty. Although I’m tempted, I won’t divulge who, but if I see you on the street and you ask me nice, maybe buy a book, I might tell you. I was green with envy. Here are pictures of the two made men, Bill first. I’m sure they will look familiar to you:

A NYC legend has passed. Jack Curran, 83, coached at Archbishop Molloy High School in Queens for 55 years. His teams won 17 championships in baseball, 5 in basketball. He was named Coach of the Year 47 times. Six of his players made it to the NBA, two to MLB. Kudos, sir. RIP.

The forecast was wrong in a positive way. Unlike yesterday, the wind was benign, and I was able to put almost three hours into the floating book shop. My thanks to the folks who made purchases.
Visit Vic's sites:
Vic's Third Novel (Print or Kindle): http://tinyurl.com/7e9jty3
Vic's Website: http://members.tripod.com/vic_fortezza/Literature/
Vic's Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic's 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic's 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic's Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3

Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 3/14 - Loopholes

Given its good reviews, I really looked forward to watching Looper (2012). Although I enjoyed it, I had trouble following the plot. It's another time travel story with fresh spin. The theme has always been problematic. I am skeptical that it will ever be a reality, and even more so of it being as precise as depicted in the film. That said, there are several elements I really liked. There are minimal special effects. Its budget was only 30 million, chickenfeed these days. It doubled its return stateside. The characters are interesting. Most of the violence was filmed from a distance or from the characters perspective, which makes it tolerable. Hats off to Bruce Willis for taking on such an unsavory role and to Joseph Gordon-Levitt for allowing himself to be made up almost beyond recognition to look like a younger Bruce Willis. In the latter stages, the film turns to another common sci-fi theme, which acts as a sort of twist. As for its problems besides the confusing storyline: there is gratuitous nudity. Perhaps it was included knowing that an R rating was guaranteed given the bloodletting and language. The flick was directed by Rian Johnson, who also wrote the screenplay. I am unfamiliar with his other work, but look forward to his future efforts. It is rated 7.6 at IMDb. On a scale of five, I rate it 3.25, which might rise on a second viewing, especially if it includes closed-captioning.

On cue, liberals in the media bashed the selection of the new pope. Of course, they're not fooling anyone. They would be satisfied only if the Catholic Church approved abortion on demand, contraception, gay marriage, and women in the priesthood. Trouble is, where would the millions who oppose one or all of these things turn if the Church caved? Then again, the goal of many liberals is a completely secular society that eliminates God and exalts human elites. It's not complicated. Anyone who does not like the teachings of Catholicism is free to choose another denomination which encourages all of the aforementioned.

Too much wind, not enough sun made for a short session for the floating book shop today. My thanks to Maddy and Herbie, who bought books, and to the FED-EX employee who donated a huge pictorial on Japan's recent earthquake and tsunami. Another day closer to Spring.
Visit Vic's sites:
Vic's Third Novel (Print or Kindle): http://tinyurl.com/7e9jty3
Vic's Website: http://members.tripod.com/vic_fortezza/Literature/
Vic's Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic's 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic's 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic's Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3

Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 3/13 - Universe

God bless the first non-European, Latino Pope - Francis I.

My thanks to Anita, the Merry Mailwoman, just returned from vacation, who bought a couple of thrillers, and also to Abdul the Friendly Porter, who donated another batch of popular books in excellent condition, and to Moses, who dropped off one. When he asked what I thought of the Conclave, I had a senior moment, no idea what he meant. When I finally regained my senses we agreed that it would be cool if an American became Pope. Maybe next time.

I'm about halfway through the proofread of my near 200,000 word rock n roll epic, Rising Star. Here's another excerpt, about a ten-minute read. Each chapter is preceded by a song lyric. This one may be obscure to all but headbangers. The artist's name will appear at the end.

 30                                          "...All I have to give you is a love that never dies...."*

   "Would you like some more meat, Mitchell?" said Mrs. Zimmerman, reaching for the serving dish.
   "No, thank you. Everything's delicious. I'm just not a big eater."
   "As you can see," said Bonnie, "you and I are in the minority in that respect here."
   The ensuing silence was tense. The entire Zimmerman family was present, including each pair of grandparents and Mark's wife, who was pregnant. Mrs. Zimmerman's preparations were elaborate: three extensive courses served on her best china, fine wine decanted from beautiful carafes into elegant glasses, all spread over her loveliest linen.
   "How long do you plan on staying with your band?" she said.
   "I haven't really thought about it. As long as it's lucrative and fun, I guess."
   "Will you be away long this time?"
   "Three months."
   "That's a long time to be separated from someone you love."
   "We're really lucky in that regard. Some bands tour much longer. I wouldn't enjoy that. I'm really a homebody."
   "My mother's trying to establish how hopeless our relationship is," said Bonnie, smirking. "She'll never forgive you for missing Mark's wedding."
   "I understand her concern. Fell free to ask me anything you like, Mrs. Zimmerman."
   "Thank you. At least one of you has sense."
   He was quietly amused at her domination of the household. The others, including the three generations of lawyers, barely said a word. They seemed uncomfortable with the grilling, which, curiously, made him feel more at ease, as everything was in the open. Bonnie was much more tense than he.
   He liked Mrs. Zimmerman and had realized what strategy to adopt the moment they'd met. To have resisted, to have insisted the relationship would work despite the problems it faced, would have been foolish. He decided that calm, lucid realization would serve best to disarm her. He refused to give her an argument.
   The family sing-along was a disaster, despite Bonnie's desperate effort to make it work. Without Mrs. Zimmerman's lead, the others' participation was halfhearted. Mitchell was unable to bring himself to even hum.
   "Won't you play for us?" said Mrs. Zimmerman, smiling.
   "What would you like to hear?"
   "Anything. We're not fussy."
   "No, of course not," said Bonnie ironically.
   He warmed up by doing several lively glissandos, paused a moment for effect, then went into the Love Theme from Romeo and Juliet. The others were mesmerized. Bonnie was beside herself with glee. She loved him as much for his wit as for his intelligence and skill. She could barely keep from laughing, as none of the others, including her mother, realized the joke being played on them, so stunned were they by the performance. When he finished no one moved. He suppressed a smile.
   "I guess it could've been better."
   "On the contrary," said Mrs, Zimmerman, gathering herself. "It was wonderful. We just didn't expect it. When Leslie brought that dreadful record home I refused to allow her to play it. And that vulgar video -- it's a shame such talent's going to waste."
   Mitchell chuckled, no longer able to restrain himself. He did not know how else to respond, the situation suddenly too absurd to be intimidating. It made no difference to him that she thought less of him because he played in a metal band. His sole concern was Bonnie. He wasn't sure himself if Mrs. Zimmerman wasn't right about the music of Rising Star. In fact, Bonnie hated the music too.
   He was assigned Mark's old room. The shelves and bureau were vacant, the walls bare, imparting a cold, sterile atmosphere, which seemed to reflect Mrs. Zimmerman's attitude toward him. He wished he was home.
   In the middle of the night Bonnie tiptoed into the room and slid into bed. He was still awake, unable to sleep.
   "Excuse my mother," she said softly, cuddling. "She has to butt in. It's her nature."
   "She has every right to. Her reservations are right on the money."
   "You handled her so well."
   "I was trying to show her we're not ignorant of the problems of a show biz couple, that we're not two adolescents blinded by love."
   "I think she got the point, Romeo."
   She put a hand between his legs. He pressed his thighs together, crushing her hand.
   "Stop."
   She propped her chin on his shoulder. "You don't know how turned on I got while you were playing. I wanted to throw you on top of the piano and take you right there in front of them all."
   "Your mother put us in separate rooms for a reason. You know how loud you can get."
   "Let's get back at her."
   He turned to her, angered. "Revenge is no motivation for sex, at least not for me."
   "Come on. When was the last time we did it in the middle of the week?"
   "We can hold out until we're home tomorrow."
   Irked, she nudged him. "I can't believe what a prude you are."
   "How can you say that after all we've done together?"
   "That's it, Romeo, get tough. Juliet's hot to trot."
   He made a face. "You sound like some bimbo in a porn film."
   "What's wrong with you?"
   "Not here. I'm not comfortable. And it's not right to disregard your mother's wishes."
   "Your putz is certainly willing."
   He turned away from her. "No."
   "She probably knows I'm in here, anyway. The walls have ears in this house. I used to put a pillow over my face when I masturbated. I had to risk suffocation to enjoy myself. Come on, she'll assume we made it, anyway."
   "I have no control over that, but I do have control over right and wrong, and this is wrong."
   "Would you've done it if she'd put us in the same room?"
   He turned and looked into the silhouette that was her face. "You didn't ask her to, did you? I can't believe you could be that naive."
   "Naive? Because I want to sleep with the man I love."
   "We're not married, shmuck."
   "Who are you calling a shmuck? She knows we've been sleeping together. Why be hypocrites?"
   "We wouldn't be hypocritical -- we'd be deceitful. This is her house. She sets down the rules here."
   "I can't believe it. You're just as afraid to stand up to her as everybody else in this house."
   "What right do I have to oppose her? I'm not family. I'm a guest. We'll pull over to the first rest stop we come to tomorrow."
   "I can't wait that long."
   He dug his nails into her wrist, forcing her to release her hold. "Go pull a pillow over your face."
   She shoved away from him, spun out of bed, and slammed the door so that the whole house would hear.
   "Shmuck," said Mitchell, dreading the thought of facing Mrs. Zimmerman in the morning.
   Symptom of the Universe by Black Sabbath.
Visit Vic's sites:
Vic's Third Novel (Print or Kindle): http://tinyurl.com/7e9jty3
Vic's Website: http://members.tripod.com/vic_fortezza/Literature/
Vic's Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic's 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic's 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic's Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3

Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 3/12 - Artistry

With nothing to my liking on TV last, I whipped out one of the music tapes I made years ago, this one circa 1999, #24. It was culled from the usual sources: SNL, Letterman, Leno, Ed Sullivan and PBS, and features just about every genre. Santana, the artist I’ve recorded the most, appears twice and exhibits his usual brilliance. Elvis Costello fronted the Beastie Boys, rocking out to Radio, Radio on the 25th anniversary of the show. Two blind artists, Ray Charles and Dianne Schuur, did a charming rendition of the Isham Jones, Gus Kahn classic, It Had To Be You. The Eurythmics did a medley of their hits, on which Dave Stewart’s acoustic guitar work was crystal clear. There were several clips from the early Doo-Wop concerts PBS used as fund-raisers, before they became nauseatingly glitzy. I especially enjoyed the Cadillac’s antics during Speedo. Having the closed-captioning running had me laughing at racy lyrics heretofore unrealized by yours truly. And those green suits! This was the period when I first learned of Diana Krall. Her set on Sessions at West 54th Street was phenomenal, an incredible display of artistry and fresh interpretation of standards. The Mothership also landed on that great series - George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic. Not only was the music great fun, the costumes of the huge entourage were colorful and outrageous. One guy pranced about in a large diaper. I also caught a performance of a song from Frank Loesser’s Guys and Dolls I’d previously overlooked, the brilliant Adelaide's Lament, done superbly by Broadway veteran Faith Prince in Betty Boop style: “In other words, just from worrying if the wedding is on or off/ A person can develop a cough.” During a reunion tour, Debbie Harry belted out my favorite Blondie song, Hanging on the Telephone, on The Tonight Show, on which Chris Stein recreated the rip-roaring lead to a T. The tape concluded with a breakneck assault by the Rollins Band, fronted by Henry of Black Flag fame, on a track appropriately titled It's Hard. I’m not sure I’ve ever seen anyone as quick on the fretboard as his guitarist, who looked like Stevie Ray Vaughan. Unfortunately, I was unable to discover his name. For the highlight, I’ve chosen a song that takes rock to a new level, Rhyme and Reason by the Dave Matthews Band. I almost hesitate to do so, as the close-captioning revealed what may be a pro-heroin theme, but the performance is too passionate and the musicianship too beautiful to pass up. I play guitar, but I was completely clueless as to the chords Matthews was playing. I’d guess minor sevenths, but it doesn’t really matter. Whatever they are, the piece is haunting. Enjoy: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mfJEQo_SNKs

Among Old Simon's donation yesterday was Born Many Times, a book about past lives. I used that theme in a short story, Nowak's Dreams, which is in the A Hitch in Twilight collection. I was unable to determine if the aforementioned was fiction or not, so I researched it on the web. The author, George McMullen, claims to be a psychic who is able to conjure actual scenes involving historical figures. I passed on it, but I'm certain it will attract the interest of customers of the floating book shop, which was rained-out today.
Visit Vic's sites:
Vic's Third Novel (Print or Kindle): http://tinyurl.com/7e9jty3
Vic's Website: http://members.tripod.com/vic_fortezza/Literature/
Vic's Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic's 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic's 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic's Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3

Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 3/11 - Sweet

How sweet it is! as the Great One, Jackie Gleason, used to say. Manhattan state Supreme Court Justice Milton Tingling has shot down NYC nanny-mayor Michael Bloomberg's ban on the sale of soda, or pop, as my Midwestern friends call it, in sizes 16 ounces or greater. The judge wrote in his opinion that the rules are "arbitrary and capricious," applying to only certain beverages and only certain stores. I would argue that it's an attack on the freedom to be foolish. I limit myself to about ten ounces a day, even though I long for the stuff. The real crime is having tax-payers pick up the medical tab for those who overindulge in anything. Some believe that is compassionate. I call it enabling.

What a day in the NFL! Division rivals the Seattle Seahawks and San Francisco 49ers both made eye-opening trades. The Hawks acquired top-notch wide receiver Percy Harvin, who suffers migraine headaches, from the Minnesota Vikings for this year's first round pick and two others. The 9ers got WR Anquan Boldin, who tormented them in the Super Bowl with spectacular catches in tight coverage, from the champion Baltimore Ravens for a sixth round pick. The Ravens would not meet the salary demands of the aging future Hall of Famer. Don't be surprised if both Seattle-San Francisco games are televised in prime time next season. What a rivalry!

Also on the sports front -- an uplifting story out of the NBA. The Dallas Mavericks have signed Chris Wright to a ten-day contract. Despite four solid years as a point guard at Georgetown, the young man went undrafted. He decided to play in Europe. While practicing for a Turkish team, he fell. That night he began experiencing frightening symptoms he did not understand, and went to a hospital. He was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Many said his career was done. He received treatment in the U.S. and the MS is currently in remission. He went to the D League, the NBA version of the minors, and now has seen his dream come true. Even if he never makes it into a game, he reached the highest level and overcame a considerable handicap to get there. He is an example to all. Kudos.

It was a nice day for the floating book shop. I sold several books and received a substantial donation from Old Simon. He noticed a book on the making of the film Titanic (1997) and mentioned that he'd crossed the Atlantic on an ocean-liner with his mom at the age of two. He was surprised I remembered he sang Yiddishe Mama to passengers. It's something so vivid a writer would not likely forget it. I'll probably use it somewhere other than a blog some day. Thanks, folks.
Visit Vic's sites:
Vic's Third Novel (Print or Kindle): http://tinyurl.com/7e9jty3
Vic's Website: http://members.tripod.com/vic_fortezza/Literature/
Vic's Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic's 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic's 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic's Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3

Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 3/10 - Oddities

THIS-TV, channel 111 on Cablevision in NYC, broadcasts movies, many of which seem the straight to video variety. I check in frequently while surfing. Last night it offered something with which I was completely unfamiliar: Mad Dog Time, aka Trigger Happy (1996). Here is it’s unbelievable cast: Ellen Barkin, Gabriel Byrne, Richard Dreyfuss, Jeff Goldblum (the star), Diane Lane (last ten minutes), Burt Reynolds (almost unrecognizable), Larry Bishop, Joey Bishop (final appearance as Gottlieb, his real last name), Kyle MacLachlan, Angie Everhart (absolutely smokin'), Henry Silva (began career as perennial villain in 1950), Michael J. Pollard (C.W. Moss in Bonnie and Clyde, 1967), Gregory Hines, Billy Idol (yes, the rock star), Billy Drago (familiar creepy villain), Paul Anka, Richard Pryor (in wheel chair), Rob Reiner, Christopher Jones (26 years since his last appearance, Ryan‘s Daughter, 1970). The movie completely flopped at the box office, probably because it is so odd. It is essentially a gangster film with a high body count, although I could see where it might be interpreted as entirely fanciful, despite being not quite surreal, a session between an insane mob boss and his analyst, although it is never hinted at being such. Gabrielle Byrne stole every scene in which he appeared, often spouting silly rhymes. As Paul Anka is serenading the boss with My Way, Byrne is on stage accompanying and offering bizarre asides. I would not even attempt to rate such a picture, but one thing I will say: I was never bored. I wouldn’t be surprised if it became a cult classic. It was directed by Larry Bishop, Joey’s son, who has only one other credit at the helm, Hell Ride (2008), a biker flick. He has 34 acting credits listed at IMDb, where the film is rated 5.1 of ten. Here’s a photo of Miss Everhart: 

Now that stocks have made an all-time high, I'm wondering if I should sell some of mine. Although unemployment dipped to 7.7, I'm still leery of the fact that there are millions less in the work force than in the recent past and a record number of people on food stamps, the latter probably being government foolishness rather than actual citizens in need. It looks like the FED will keep interest rates low, which is terrible for bank accounts but drives investors to put their money where there will be a decent return. Most of my stocks pay a dividend. The two I'd most like to dump are Citi and AIG, which were slammed shortly after I acquired them. I lost respect for each after the bailouts. Decisions, decisions.

The book sales pattern held on Bay Parkway & 85th: good business Saturday, almost nothing Sunday. My thanks to the young woman who purchased John Gray's Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus.
Visit Vic's sites:
Vic's Third Novel (Print or Kindle): http://tinyurl.com/7e9jty3
Vic's Website: http://members.tripod.com/vic_fortezza/Literature/
Vic's Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic's 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic's 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic's Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3

Selling My Books on the Streets of brooklyn 3/9 - Rising

I caught up to The Dark Knight Rises (2012) last night, courtesy of Netflix. I really enjoyed it. I did not pause the DVD a single time, despite its two-and-a-half hour running time. It had a great villain, interesting story, a twist I did not anticipate (not the final one) and, of course, great effects. I don’t know why I was surprised that Anne Hathaway would make an excellent Cat Woman. She has been wonderful in every film in which I’ve seen her. I respect that Bane is never unmasked. Tom Hardy, who played the role, also did a great turn as one of literature’s great lowlifes, Bill Sykes, in the most recent adaptation of Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist (2007), a PBS miniseries. I still chuckle at Gary Oldman, another Brit, a master of silver screen creeps, in the heroic role of Commissioner Gordon. I was disappointed in only one aspect of the viewing. These days I leave the close-captioning running all the times, as my hearing is not up to par. There was none on the DVD, and I had difficulty understanding a lot of the dialogue. I did not understand why Cat Woman allowed Joseph Gordon Levitt’s character to arrest her without a fight, when she violently resisted everyone else along the way, including Batman. I hope the film is one day broadcast on regular TV so that I can read what I missed. During it, Bruce Wayne, played by Christian Bale, the definitive Caped Crusader, declares that Batman is an idea, not an individual. Does this mean the next celluloid incarnation of the alter ego will be someone other than Wayne, perhaps Levitt’s character? How would diehards react to that? Maybe it's time to retire the series. It's hard to imagine topping the most recent trilogy. On a scale of five, I rate The Dark Knight Rises four. It is rated 8.6 of ten at IMDb.

Yankees haters like me have been encouraged by their difficulties this spring, but now that the great Mariano Rivera has announced his retirement I see another scenario - the final pitch of his storied career closing out yet another World Series title for the Bronx Bombers. Say it ain't so, Joe.

It was a gorgeous day, and a successful one for the floating books shop. Jack of Chase Bank was not working today, but the security guard bought a couple of paperbacks. A gentleman purchased three non-fictions, including Rudy Giuliani's Leadership. Another purchased Flags of Our Fathers by James Bradley and Ron Powers, and Folly and Glory by Larry McMurtry. He was two years behind me at Lafayette H.S. and asked for advice for his daughter, 33, who writes. I told him to have her look me up on the web. I' ll answer any and all questions. Last but not least, Bad News Billy showed and bought the Ultimate Jazz CD I keep on file in Windows Media Player. He's treating a bad cold with streptomycin. Thanks, folks.
 Visit Vic's sites:
Vic's Third Novel (Print or Kindle): http://tinyurl.com/7e9jty3
Vic's Website: http://members.tripod.com/vic_fortezza/Literature/
Vic's Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic's 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic's 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic's Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3

Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 3/8 - Guest

Born in 1936, Judith Guest has written five novels and one book of non-fiction on family. Her first, the gut-wrenching Ordinary People, was a critical and commercial success. Published in 1976, it was adapted to the silver screen in 1980. It was Robert Redford’s first directorial effort, and he won an Oscar. The film was also named Best Picture, and Timothy Hutton was named Best Supporting Actor. I just finished her most recent effort, The Tarnished Eye, published in 2004. It is the story of the Sheriff of a rural Michigan area trying to solve a multiple homicide. It works both as a mystery and an examination of the man’s psyche, which has been damaged by a devastating personal loss similar to what the family in Ordinary People suffer. The prose and dialogue are solid and unpretentious, written with great care. The book’s 267 pages read more like 200. It is based on a crime that remains unsolved, but the author does not leave the reader unsatisfied in that regard. I wonder why Guest has written only six books. That seems rare these days when many writers bang out a book or two a year. I’ve been lucky in my last two mystery choices. Lawrence Sanders’ McNally’s Secret is clever light entertainment, and The Tarnished Eye is a serious examination of the most frightening aspect of human nature. On a scale of five, 3.75. It's transcends the genre.

Rand Paul, Republican from Kentucky, has garnered positive and negative reaction to his near 13-hour filibuster protesting the possible use of a drone strike against citizens on American soil. The gabfest delayed the appointment of the new CIA chief, John Brennan. I’m not sure how I feel about the issue. Suppose a terrorist group is holed up in a remote area and refuses to surrender? Wouldn’t a drone strike be preferable to a gun battle in which lawmen might be killed? And there’s only one thought I have regarding a politician speaking for more than a few minutes: Pass the hemlock. It is entertaining in Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939), where the filibuster runs for approximately 20 minutes of screen time and is interrupted by scenes that occur outside the Senate, but I’m certain I wouldn’t have watched had the entire marathon been represented, despite the noble intentions.

Mark Simone made an interesting point on his radio show this morning. Tired of the dire warnings about the sequester’s effects, he said that the cost of security for Obama’s round of golf with Tiger Woods was about the same as running the White House tours for an entire year. The priorities of politicians are, of course, far different than the public's.

It’s not a lot of snow, at least in Brooklyn, and it will melt quickly, but it is annoying. I hope the weekend forecast is correct. I need relief from the gloom, and I miss selling books on the street, even though it's frequently disappointing.
Visit Vic's sites:
Vic's Third Novel (Print or Kindle): http://tinyurl.com/7e9jty3
Vic's Website: http://members.tripod.com/vic_fortezza/Literature/
Vic's Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic's 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic's 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic's Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3

Selling My Books on the Streets of Brooklyn 3/7 - Ridiculous

And so Hugo Chavez has left for what I’m sure he hopes is that great Socialist paradise in the sky. He was wildly popular among Venezuela’s poor, spending one-third of the country’s oil wealth on social programs. Through CITGO and with the help of Robert Kennedy, he provided home heating assistance to the poor in the U.S.. Unfortunately, he gave a lot more of his country’s wealth to crones and leftists revolutionaries elsewhere. According to an op-ed piece in Wednesday’s NY Post, Venezuela is the most violent country in South America, murders occurring at a ridiculous rate. A think tank ranks it last in economic freedom. Its inflation rate is among the highest in the world. It suffers from electricity shortages and deteriorating infrastructure. It imports 70% of its food. Now the world will wait and see if the country descends into complete chaos without his leadership. He was only 59. How ironic that someone who provided universal health care to the masses could not be saved even by the vaunted Marxists doctors of Cuba, whose health system is always ballyhooed by liberal apologists, as if it makes up for the almost complete lack of freedom. Was he poisoned by the West? It’s not out of the realm of possibility, although I doubt it. It would have had to occur during the Bush administration. It’s hard to imagine Obama giving the order to kill someone whose ideals he seems to share, even though Chavez once called him a phony.

I don’t pay much attention to hockey until the Stanley Cup Finals, but there is something happening in the NHL that is quite astonishing. The Chicago Blackhawks have played 24 games and have yet to lose, 21-0-3. Of course, this does not guarantee post-season success. Hockey’s regular season is the least meaningful of the four major sports, although this year’s strike-abbreviated schedule lends it a much greater urgency than usual. Third and fourth seeds have won the Cup. Still, this is an amazing run, especially given that there are fewer off-nights to rest and heal. After they won the Cup two years ago, the franchise was forced by economic reasons to dump many high-priced players. Management has done an incredible rebuilding job. The Hawks have answered the bell every night. That’s not easy physically or psychologically. Kudos.

It looks like one more day on the shelf for the floating book shop, although I hope the forecast is again wrong in terms of snow accumulation for tomorrow. The advisory is in effect until noon. If the weather shows signs of breaking by then, and the wind isn't too ridiculous, I may be out there. I'm feeling like a bum right now. Fortunately, I've been proofing my near 200,000 word rock n roll epic, so the past few days haven't been a total loss.
Visit Vic's sites:
Vic's Third Novel (Print or Kindle): http://tinyurl.com/7e9jty3
Vic's Website: http://members.tripod.com/vic_fortezza/Literature/
Vic's Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic's 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic's 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic's Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3