Frank B.
Yelp
So, I go to Camden on another Sunday to look for interesting gear - what else is that market there for?
I return to a nicely fitted store with Jesus statues - signs on them, "you break it you pay for it". I look around for four to six minutes. The usual selection of Chucks, 80's carrot Jeans, silky baseball jackets, chintzy dresses, three salespeople at the center island desk. I look through all the eye-level stuff. Hmmmmm. Then I scan the ceiling. Oh, an interesting jacket - a paper tag hanging off it. Hard to see, but definitely more text than just a price. "D I S P L A Y only - not for sale."
The only interesting item, and no proper price tag. WHY? Just hanging around on the ceiling?
Me, not a friend of unpriced things in shops ( this clearly not any decoration), goes to the island desk and asks the lady and guy behind "how much is the jacket" up there?". Man answers "Oh, that's the owner, ask him", points to burly geezer right aside from the desk.
I ask him. He says " Oh, don't work here". Me: "OK, this fella says you're the boss". He: "Oh, yeah. It's my day off". Me: "How much is that jacket", drag him around to the item. He: "Oh, that, hmmmm. I got that as a present." Me: "Why's it hung here - not for sale?". He: "Yeah, just to advertise our stuff." Me: "If you display it, you should at least have some similar items - no?". He: "I collect these jackets - it was a present. One like this has sold for 100 quid". Me: "OK. If you want to sell it give me a price". He, shrugs shoulders and walks off.
I feel silly. Why - why do I feel silly? Why me? Grrrrrrr!
I calm down. Walk around looking at more of the gear. A vitrine full of Nike Air - 80's - interesting, but well worn. No price - in fact labels like "Nike Air 80's £______". I suddenly recall seeing these shoes perhaps ten years ago at Camden Market. Still not sold.
I trudge out if the shop. Too disheartened to even ask about the jacket. "What the hell is wrong with that guy?" I shout out, exasperated.
I walk to my car grumbling, head for home.
What an annoying day in Camden.