Monday, May 21, 2012

The numbers were fuzzy, soft-edged, the pricing of multiple items was calculated by Juan in a quasi liquid street math. He had learned to simultaneously add, subtract, sell, watch for thieves, and chat up potential customers -- all while maintaining the appropriate level of humility that made the tourists comfortable. The totals were accurate enough to work, but not so accurate as to distract from his real task of peddling goods.