LikeMind
A dystopian tale of what happens when you only live near people who agree with you.
Ideological districts to suit all tastes have been demarcated since the second referendum, and people are about to be rezoned according to their expressed beliefs. But it doesn’t quite go to plan…
Opening
‘Jez? I got my letter.’
‘And?
‘Well I won’t be with you.’
‘Not joining my friendly neighbourhood of Nazis? Pity. Where then? Bryten, yes?’
‘Yep’.
‘Lucky bastard. So what have we got in Bryten? Let’s see - Redland, Alta, Viridia, Credence. Well you can’t’ve gone for Credence.’
‘Nah. They all have to actively learn about and respect each other’s faiths, and everyone’s got a religion? Do me a favour. They never would’ve been land-selected if it hadn’t been for Lord Barford. How this country loves a Lord - he could’ve convinced them of anything! The whole place should be in Albion, I reckon. Fifth column waiting to happen. I’d rather not even be next door. They’ll be killing each other in no time.’
‘Well you’re not political enough for Redland. Can’t see you with the weirdos in Alta, so I guess it must be Viridia.
‘Got it in one.’
‘Well that’s alright. I’d be delighted compared to what I’ve got.’
‘No luck with the appeal?’
‘No. Apparently they’ve been overwhelmed with requests, so they’re going to address them all ‘after the first redistribution is complete’. ‘
‘You’re joking, aren’t you? It’ll take ages!’
‘Well they said a year in the election.’
‘Yeah, right! They said whatever they needed to - it’s gonna take years. They’re six months in and only half of us even know where we’re going.’
‘Well, I’ll keep trying, but I’m not optimistic. Mum says she’ll top herself before moving in with the KKK. Thinks they’ll be round our house in their hoods on Day One with a rope. I think it’ll be alright - everyone wants it to work. We’ll just keep ourselves to ourselves for a while. Let’s have a look at the leaflet then. What’s your place gonna be like? Ha!’
‘What? ‘
‘Better enjoy your burgers while you can, Cassie.’
‘Why? It’s not bloody veggie is it?’
‘Nah.’
‘Thank Christ.’
‘It’s vegan, mate.’