A sample from Mutating the Signature

Today is a collection of commemorative plates. The hours today are engraved pewter and painted enamel to dangle on wooden racks or be displayed on glass shelves. For this reason, those who take a moment to pause over the careful arrangement of minutes will want to number them in awe. This way, “collectors” will be able to savor their encounter with time. You have a date with a clock. You may need to protect yourself from the minute hand. This afternoon there is a buffet of schedules and a platter of appointments. Enjoy the sensation of waiting in line. In the rush of traffic think of each second’s hot touch. Use an egg timer and imagine the pleasure you might have. This is a day to fondle your chronology.

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Today is a business suit made of stone. My pants today are granite, carved to resemble office buildings. For this reason, I take an hour to walk to the fax machine. My clients will be able to stare at my legs with impunity. Slacks have a crucial role to play in financial agreements. Casual trousers may need to be replaced by something stronger. This afternoon there are reports to be filed and pleats to be polished. I enjoy maintaining the gleam of a marble crotch. What could I wear through all my negotiations that could be more architecturally protective? I use a flashlight and stepladder in the morning. At night I might have to sleep in my coat.

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Process Notes
These were made from a skeleton Dana Guthrie Martin posted on Mutating the Signature, the new online journal we started. We’re acting as curators of the first issue — a kind of test run.