Voltaire published his book secretively. A satire, it was sure to piss off the mediocre assholes who thought their new clothes made them look smart. Or rich. Or thin. Sure enough, Candide was a hit and the assholes banned it. But does anyone remember their names or even care?
As diners close and an old man running a neighborhood newspaper-stand fights $800-an-hour lawyers working to evict him, a real city still stands. Or in this case, sits. Being reminded that no matter what century or country it might be, mediocrity can and will continue to be challenged.
