Chapter 1: The Illusion of Time

It seems like just yesterday—or was it last year? Time appears to be slipping away at an alarming pace, leaving me feeling as though a thief is stealthily snatching away precious moments. As I age, the urgency intensifies; time has become an increasingly rare commodity. I find myself pondering how to report this “time crime,” but ironically, I don’t have enough time to even think about it.

But I digress.

Not long ago, a remarkable "Installation" graced the large advertising screen in Piccadilly Circus, a clear sign that the future of visual technology had indeed arrived. I had always imagined that I would confidently declare such advancements when, for example, I could witness a silent flying Prius whisking its joyful passengers across the city, or when a simple card labeled 'Food' could grant me access to any culinary delight at any hour without the hassle of payment.

While these aspirations remain on my wishlist, I was captivated by the sudden emergence of this astonishing box, which drew gasps from an astonished crowd. I turned to a man beside me who was equally mesmerized by the eerie 3D hand reaching toward us from above.

"This is incredible," I remarked. "It’s like that box is filled with 3D wheels and projectors that can sense our thoughts in 4D, just like that ghostly hand searching for us in the darkness."

The man looked puzzled but intrigued. "What do you mean?" he asked.

I continued, "The brilliance emanating from that massive structure is extraordinary, but there’s something even more remarkable about it, don't you think?"

Suddenly, a smile spread across his face, one of those smiles that suggests a secret is about to be shared. "Yes, I designed it! And the best part? There’s no need for those pesky 3D glasses anymore," he beamed, his eyes sparkling with pride.

Stunned, I absorbed his words as he elaborated, revealing the joy and wonder that technology could bring. He painted a vivid picture of a scenario where a gigantic hand emerges from the box, startling unsuspecting drivers at a red light.

"Imagine your wife screaming and dropping her ice cream as she bolts away, leaving you bewildered! What do you do when that hand approaches? Is this a dream or reality?"

His whimsical narrative continued, laced with humor and wit, intertwining absurdity with insight. He shared stories of how this installation was a testament to human creativity, even if he was, in fact, an out-of-work actor writing a review for a niche website.

"Not everyone is a geek," I retorted, slightly offended. "Some of us are completely unaware of what that term even means."

He chuckled, reminiscing about the past and how this innovative display would be unforgettable. He painted a picture of the future where such technology would capture our imagination and redefine our experiences.

As we conversed, I applauded him softly, feeling an unexpected kinship. Time slipped away unnoticed, and we found ourselves lost in discussion, oblivious to the world around us, even as the iconic advertising screen dimmed and the night faded.

In the early hours, as refuse trucks began their routine, we continued our engaging dialogue filled with laughter and insight. I will always remember that night and the nameless man who shared it with me—a magical evening when technology and humanity intertwined in the heart of London.

We.

Two souls on a bench,

Two humans… being.

Ian Francis February 2023

Chapter 2: A Glimpse of the Future

The first video showcases the official music video for Roddy Ricch's "The Box," highlighting the artist's unique style and captivating visuals that resonate with the theme of unexpected moments.

In this second video, Roddy Ricch presents the official audio for "The Box," allowing listeners to immerse themselves in the song's rhythmic beats and lyrical depth, echoing the essence of surprise and wonder.