Incessant pounding somewhere resonating through the building.

Sex? wondered my roommate.

If so, congratulations. Solid four hours, and going strong.

Parched throat, un-cooperative mind. At times I want to gulp down glaciers of water and gobble fruits bursting ripe with juice to satisfy my neverending thirst.

I read somewhere that because of my 'fiery nature' I need more water.

When I read that, I pictured myself as a ravenous raging fire which evaporated all liquids nearby.

I hunger for so much.

Karaoke tonight. Likely to make a giant fool of self singing such hits I hate to love such as Britney Spears and Spice Girls.

Perfect happiness strolling through Leather Lane market, admiring the bright colors of swingy skirts and searching for that perfect necklace I can't seem to find anywhere. Simple coral-red translucent beads in a long strand, with heft and a cold mineral feel to them.

Everybody Marie tonight!

So tired of ethnicity/origin questions by the Indian cashiers who pop up everywhere. American, I tell them firmly. But they continue to probe, pick, wheedle it out of me that my parents are from Taiwan. It is then, only then, that they nod with satisfaction, as though I have fulfilled some very important part of their life.

I imagine them at home, going through a list--did I meet a Taiwanese girl today? Check!

Like it is their sole purpose for living.