Postcards from London 2018

As the National Gallery’s 16th-century Titian masterpiece holds court, Jim wanders in, his small-town sensibilities drawn to the artistic grandeur like a magnet. His fascination with the painting proves too great, and he succumbs to its beauty, fainting into unconsciousness. This unexpected encounter sets him on a journey of self-discovery as he finds himself in the midst of Soho’s vibrant cultural scene. After a chance meeting with a kind-hearted barmaid, who dubs him an angel-faced innocent, Jim stumbles upon a group of charismatic individuals (David, Jesus, Marcello, and Victor) who introduce him to their unique profession: serving as raconteurs to wealthy patrons.

As Jim immerses himself in this new world, he undergoes a crash course in the cultural arts of Soho, with Caravaggio’s masterpieces providing the catalyst. His education extends far beyond the artistic realm, however, as he learns the intricacies of the sex trade and opens his own viewing booth. The patronage of discerning clients follows, including a book author who shares Jim’s fascination with Caravaggio’s works. During one particularly memorable encounter, Jim finds himself transported into a painting, assuming the role of Christ while the client offers words of wisdom: “Enjoy your youth.”

This unusual sensitivity is further highlighted when Jim becomes the subject of an old man’s fantasy, reimagining Ancient Rome and playing the part of Saint Sebastian. As he feels guilty for participating in this escapade, Jim refunds the fee, yet his reputation as a muse-in-the-making begins to spread throughout Soho. Max, an artist seeking inspiration, takes notice of Jim’s unique essence and invites him to be his model. After months of posing, Jim produces a stunning piece of art that reinvigorates Max’s career.

Despite this newfound fame, concerns arise regarding Jim’s frequent fainting spells. David and the group persuade him to seek medical attention, leading them to a doctor who diagnoses Jim with Stendhal Syndrome – an affliction where the patient becomes one with the art, experiencing emotional ecstasy upon beholding beauty. This rare condition is exemplified when the doctor shows Jim The Musicians by Caravaggio, inducing a trance-like state and another fainting spell. In this altered reality, Jim finds himself transported to 1595 Rome, surrounded by his friends as they appear in the painting. The artist, none other than Caravaggio himself, chides them for their chatter, tenderly stroking Jim’s face before disappearing into the canvas. Upon awakening, Jim speaks as if he has a personal connection with the artist, a testament to the profound impact of beauty on his psyche.

As Jim’s consciousness lapses into blackouts, he finds himself metamorphosing into various artistic personas, one of whom is the enigmatic Max. In a poignant moment of introspection, Max (Jim) engages in a philosophical discussion with a discerning client about the heightened sensitivity he possesses when it comes to art. The conversation is abruptly interrupted by the appearance of Paul, an individual who holds a profound connection to Jim’s past. Paul’s words are laced with a hint of bitterness as he reveals that their shared history involves a clandestine profession, one in which Jim initially replaced him.

As Paul’s narrative unfolds, Jim is struck by the realization that his unique emotional response to art may be harnessed for financial gain. Paul proposes a provocative partnership: if Jim can utilize his empathetic abilities to distinguish between authentic and fraudulent art, they could reap substantial rewards. Their initial encounter culminates in a intimate connection, with Paul’s words lingering like a promise of opportunity.

As the days pass, Paul sets a test in motion, designed to exploit Jim’s extraordinary talent. However, Jim’s introspection is marred by feelings of shame and disgust, stemming from his perceived curse. His four confidants, once united in their exploits, now harbor a deep sense of betrayal towards Jim.

Meanwhile, two newcomers attempt to capitalize on Jim’s reputation, seeking to tap into the lucrative world of art appreciation. Amidst this tumultuous landscape, Dr. and Paul present a compelling argument: that Jim’s extraordinary gift can be leveraged as a valuable service to the art world, with commensurate compensation.

Jim’s experiences are marked by a recurring pattern of artistic genius, accompanied by physical exhaustion and fainting spells. In a moment of vulnerability, he is cautioned by a sympathetic barmaid to savor his good fortune while it lasts.

As Jim navigates this complex web of relationships and artistic expression, the four original raconteurs begin their quest for a new partner. Meanwhile, Jim’s own creative vision starts to take shape, as he sets out to craft his own unique beauty.