Finally, I had a few days left to make deadline and I spoke to his manager..."why can't we get Gene to say something for the book in the boxset?"
I was told: "Gene wants the tape he did for the Mark Twain show" (oh yeah---he didn't show up for the Mark Twain Prize honor for Richard either, instead sent in a tape!)
"Why does Gene need the tape of his remarks to give a testimonial for the booklet?" I asked nievely...
"Oh because, he talked about how Richard taught him how to improvise and he wants to remember what he said?"
I laughed!
I replied to the arrogant manager..."Is the irony not lost on you and Gene that Gene requires this tape to discuss IMPROVISATION?"
I thought,now that's fucking ironic...apparently Gene didn't get the lesson of improvisation afterall!
