In Stephen King’s wonderful novel ‘Black House’(the 2nd of a two book Talisman series), he discusses the concept of slippage. A quaint term used to describe the tendency for people who desperately want to hold onto at least an 'illusion of normality' even when that is no longer possible. Slippage is like standing in the house known as ‘Rose Red’. A dwelling that appears to be OK at first glance but which is, in point of fact, quite insane. Some of us can perceive slippage rather well. Others of us are totally blind to it. Blind that is, until the pressure of forces beyond our control crash down around our heads and thrust us into a new and sometimes disturbing reality.
Here in the United States slippage is going on in full force for those of us with clear and penetrating sight. You can see it in the eyes of the people on the streets around you. No one wants to look too closely at anything anymore. Rather they sidle up to it, preferring a quick glance from the corners of their eyes. After all, a mere glance affords one a good feeling of normality without having to risk the queasiness that might come with true vision . (Something that can be said to be especially valid for some politicians who stumble about the great halls of Congress). Those who regard these individuals, in just a cursory manner, can not ever see what they are really up to.
Yes, even with slippage seems to be now in full force, many of us walking the daily walk, never having to deal with the foul visual stench that has become much of our government....
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