The Insidious Pocketbook

It began, innocently enough with a simple patterned cloth. Even the design was simple. Designed to draw the eye and weigh next to nothing. The strap could be used over the shoulder and it could be washed as well. Yes, it was a ingeniously hatched plot. The only obstacle, if you could call it that, was the price. Some would not be able to afford it...not that it should have been expensive, mind you. It was only a small handbag, made of cloth. But you didn't think of it, did you? Therefore, they could charge whatever they wished--they thought of it first. And so the empire grew from that one small purse. Soon women everywhere began to notice them. And want them. Money began to not be a problem. It was habit-forming, owning these precious bags. And new patterns of cloth became available four times a year--I think it was four times. But who was counting? The people who came up with the idea, thats who. They were counting all right. Counting the dollars rolling in. Soon the little bags became bigger bags, then overnight bags, then diaper bags, then backpacks, then suitcase-like things. Ah, but they became smaller as well, clutch bags, wallets, smaller wallets, change purses. And let us not forget the glasses holders, the cell phone holders and the pocket savers! And then the true genius took hold. Why not take the design of the cloth and imprint things with it, like pens, clipboards, frames for glasses and picture frames! Why not indeed? Shops began to spring up like weeds, touting the products. Women were drooling for the next pattern, the next shape, the next gee gaw and doo dad. Catalogs were produced with family members as the models--what could be more natural? But of course, the families were beautiful and stylish in their patterned finery.

It has been hinted that the tsunami of lust for the bags has crested and things are beginning to settle down now. But summer is coming and there are new patterns to display.