Q: The Scarecrow begins with Jack McEvoy being RIFed.

That used to be uncommon.

But you have been through it many times. You're an old hand at being RIFed.

A: In WORKINGMAN'S BLUES NO. 2, my temporary technical writing job is running out. And there'll be no unemployment.

I'll go from $17 an hour to naught.

From gainfully employed to at the house.

But for me, an expulsion is a promotion. At least until my money runs out.

I'll find something.

I always do.

Q: Maybe you'll sell a book.

A: I never have.

It doesn't feel like that's what's pending.

Q: It's always the darkest just before the pitch black.

A: That's what I'll call my black novel, if I ever get around to writing it. PITCH BLACK.

That's where I operate. The dark before the pitch black. The lull before the storm. The center of the cyclone.

Critical fudge.

Three foot up a bull's ass.