Bangkok, October/November 2011 
THRESHOLD
Will it rain today? How strong will the deluge be? Should we move before the water arrives? How much above sea level is this area? How high will the tide be? Should we wait and see? How is mum doing? How far has water travelled? Should I empty the three higher bookshelves? Will water enter the house? Can I sacrifice those books? Should we stay? Is she more awake? Really? The fridge will float? Will the furniture float? Is the tap water clean? Have we stored enough water? How much will we need for a month? Can the drinking-water delivery-man deliver? Has water receded from his home? Is the 3-layer pile of sandbags enough? Does she know she is coming home? Is she in pain? Have we got enough rice? Should we board up the windows and doors? What if it reaches the second level? Should we go? What about the puppy? Have we got enough medication? Food? Dog food? Will she recognise me? Will she smile? Will the barriers hold? Should I get a portable stove? Will internet still work? Should we get more sandbags? Will there be a coup? Shall I pin the curtains up? Keep a bag packed and ready? What if electricity fails? Are the city canals over flowing? Will they warn us before the flood arrives? Are we on our own? Will she know she is home? Do we have enough candles? Is that how you block drains? Is the old man in the corner house prepared for this? Should I go to the supermarket? Look for more drinking water? How long will it stay? Is the river full? Will she speak even a few words in time?
