He was the kind of asshole who names his dog Tarkovsky

no money vacation: sleep
no money rose: crumbled kleenex

Our two teachers, pain and fear

In compensation for his collapsing dignity and self respect he found himself engaged in acts of escalating grandiosity—leaving preposterous tips or paying extravagant compliments—in hopes that someone might find him bearable.

Another day on earth; pray for mercy and hope for the best.

Since childhood she had engaged in small acts of self mutilation in hopes of turning prettiness into beauty.