Friday, May 14, 2010

Sad Sack: Las Vegas Four


People were spread out around the casino. Some were playing Black Jack or a variation, some were at the Craps table and some at the Roulette table. Mostly they were having fun, whooping when someone won and moaning when someone lost. But definitely an air of fun.
Then there were the Slot Machines. Many folks slouched in the chairs that go with each machine, cigarette smoldering in hand or ashtray, drink nearby and a defeated look on their faces. They pushed the buttons again and again and seemed to find no joy at all. You have to wonder about these “sad sacks”. Las Vegas is a holiday destination that is supposed to be fun. I had fun. I saw lots of people having fun. But not at the slots. It seemed like these players were down to their last chance, and losing.
I could be wrong, but it looked like the atmosphere of defeat hung around them like a fog. I had planned to spend a bit of time on the slots myself, but after seeing the company, walked away.

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