Part 63 (1/2)

I close my eyes and do the only thing I can do. I am, at last, the creature I have so long wished to become-a kind man. With my swollen blue-veined breast I give my offspring succour-the milk of dragons from my witch's t.i.t.

It will give him strength for the interesting times ahead.

Peter Carey is the author of eleven novels and has twice received the Booker Prize. His other honors include the Commonwealth Writers' Prize and the Miles Franklin Literary Award. Born in Australia, he has lived in New York City for twenty years.

BOOKS BY P PETER C CAREY.

PARROT AND OLIVER IN AMERICA.

HIS ILLEGAL SELF.

THEFT.

WRONG ABOUT j.a.pAN.

MY LIFE AS A FAKE.

30 DAYS IN SYDNEY: A WILDLY DISTORTED ACCOUNT.

TRUE HISTORY OF THE KELLY GANG.