Away (August)

The bathhouse is a multi-storeyed fact. You cannot wish it away. The bathhouse exists on services rendered. It’s not the same as changing schools. Still, you have to pass disguised through the gates. Like everything about the past, the bathhouse has its own rules. You cannot brush them away. Two bombs fell on Japan in August. You cannot wish them away. Greasy monsters come to clean away their shit. It’s only ever temporary. You survive by declining their gifts, No-Face and his fool’s gold. You will put away foolish things. You will learn your true name and name Illusion, now.

3 of 10: 'Spirited Away' by Hayao Miyazaki (2001)