I found the entrance by mistake. That could well have been the intention because, although the arrangement seemed secure, the address was decidedly vague - hidden, as it was, amid a dark labyrinth of back sois that gurgled with mischief and neon glitz. Nevertheless, I was greeted by a smiling dwarf with a metal leg. Venue? Bangkok snooker club. Time? About 9.30 p.m. Temperature? Rising. Corruption? About 80%.These finely-crafted stories and articles were originally published in Bangkok Metro magazine and The Nation newspaper. Written between 1994 and 1998, they appeared in Metro under the column title "Mugged by Reality" and in The Nation as "Slightly Out of Focus". Factually sweetened, slightly surreal, occasionally critical, but always biting and hilarious, they are guaranteed to make you laugh out loud. Take a trip inside for further enlightenment on life in Bangkok and life in general..."A rich feast of humour as Beaumont's poetic pen journeys through Thailand and elsewhere, ambushing the reader with a full arsenal of language and irony." Christopher G. Moore, Novelist"Roger Beaumont is one of a rare breed of writers who can make you laugh and cry at the same time. He takes delight at the absurd things in life and shares them with us in his unique style. A thoroughly entertaining read." Roger Crutchley, Bangkok Post