The Old Vic

by Garry Gay and John Thompson

Written 4 January 1994, at the Old Vic pub in Santa Rosa, California. Return to “Rengay: Its Birth and Growth” essay.

empty glasses

low dimmed lights

swaying to the sax Garry

slurred emotions—

another round John

shouting over

the din of conversation—

small talk Garry

girl at the bar

laughing at their jokes

and cringing too John

corner booth

lost in their own music Garry

surly bartender

after closing time

counting his tips John