"Well," the guy said, smiling in a twisted way. "I'm from somewhere better than youseee."

Despite recognizing that he was now an unwilling participant in a rhetorical set-up, Casey played along: "Where?"

"Philly," our man said, in a challenging proud voice. His eyes had a little bit of crazy in them… He stood staring at Casey for a good 10 seconds, then flicked his cigarette at his feet and walked away.

Just then, the bouncer, who'd been watching this whole thing take place, let out a low whistle and spoke all of the truth.

"Man," he said. "In Philly, you just come out angry."

—