At the gym, riding an exercise bicycle while reading "The Ask," by Sam Lipsyte:
A man leans in and compliments me on my cycling: "You're really getting your heart-rate up!" he says. This is both sketchy gym behavior, and not remotely true. I have not broken a sweat. He then identifies himself as a masseuse. I'm not sure if this is meant to put me at ease.
"What are you reading?"
I show him the cover. He looks puzzled.
"It's a dark comedy," I explain. There is something about his demeanor, a certa...