Zappa Encounters "Bob"

The Real Frank Zappa Book, Poseidon Press, 1989, Chapter 13, "All About Schmucks," page 233:

"I suggest we learn how to take anything bad that happens to us and *polarize* it. Instead of being overwhelmed by a negative event, dodge to the side like those t'ai chi guys and let it whizz by your pants. Maybe it makes a little breeze -- big deal. *(Please, don't mistake this for optimism.)*

"There is an organization in Texas called *The Church of the SubGenius,* devoted to the teachings of some guy with a pipe in his mouth named *"Bob".* I'm not a member, but part of their 'theology' parallels mine.

"As the planet gets more crowded, me must realize that *'slack'* is precious, schmucks are plentiful, impingements are impractical and werewolf etiquette for self-defense is a personal necessity.

"Techniques must be developed to enable each of us to escap the other guy's bullshit (just as he wishes to escape ours). Heaven would be a place where bullshit existed only on television. *(Hallelujah! We're halfway there!)*

"People should be encouraged to look after their own self-interest, but avoid *inflicting* themselves on other people -- especially don't infliuct yourself on a schmuck. The guy has already made his choice. *Cut the schmuck some slack.*"

Zappa elsewhere has mentioned first hearing of The Church of the SubGenius on CNN. That report was done in 1983, just after the first edition of The Book of the SubGenius came out.

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