So many superstitious Americans are afflicted
by this fear, the resulting loss of business equals
$800–$900 million. Perhaps we could come up with
some excruciating new superstitions instead of strikes,
and petitions, and target them somehow. If the number
twelve is perfection, alchemically complete, then thirteen
bulges obscenely, I get it. So much for the idea
we’re a country of gluttons. But there’s Lawson’s novel,
in which an unscrupulous broker creates a Wall Street
panic. See there? It’s all true. Having thirteen
at the table results in a death—another one about greed?
Yet in the Netherlands, driving proves safer because folks
are preventatively careful. Fewer fires too. Less theft.
In Spain, they freak out on Tuesday instead.