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Are you Runyonesque or Bunionesque? Damon Runyon created, and Broadway idealized the craps player/gambler with the heart of gold. Strangely enough, these characters do exist but they are on the verge of extinction. Youll have to search, but on any given night, in some casino, youll find these eccentrics. Theyll be standing at the corner of the table, giving the table staff some good natured ribbing, while at the same time, placing, collecting, and most importantly watching. Despite the din and the chatter, their eyes never leave the table. They know the strong shooters from the poor at the table. They know the break-even point of their spread of wagers. Theyre quietly confident in their discipline and extensive craps knowledge. Theyre efficient with their interaction with the staff, but not rude. Dont interrupt them during the game with questions! At best youll be ignored, at worst, youll get a tongue-lashing. But, introduce yourself when theyre done at
the tables and in all likelihood, youll be greeted with a smile and a handshake. Win
or lose, (mostly win) the runyonesque player knows and loves the game. I aspire to become this type of craps player. On the other hand, you
have the bunionesque player. Hes
less difficult to find. This guy acts as if
hes been on his feet since Guys and Dolls opened on Broadway. He may be at the same corner of the table. Instead, though, hes rude to the table
staff and the other players. Hes
grouchy. Hes superstitious. Hes
under funded. He complains about the dice
rolls and is quick to interject his opinion of your wagering methodology whether
youve asked for it or not. Wheres
the damn cocktail waitress? I remember when this place had GOOD service. Wherere
my smokes? Jesus Christ. Did somebody take my smokes? Ope! Here they
are. Hey Buddy, got a light? "Whoa!
Get a look at her! Give me fifteen minutes with her and Id
.Wait, hey!
I jus told you to take me down! I didn't? You Sure? Youre jus'
tryin to rip me off! At one time, he may
have known a lot about craps, but over time, knowledge, attentiveness to the game and
discipline were lost, just like the manners his mother taught him. Now its all shortcuts, the quick score or
comps he doesnt really deserve. I hope
youve have had the chance to read the Mad Professors Are You A Friggin' Idiot? . In that article, he documents quite nicely the
casino life of the bunionesque player. Whether you wish to become the embodiment of the Runyonesque player or not, its of the utmost importance that at the very least you dont become that curmudgeon in the corner. Why? If youre like me, you LOVE craps. You love everything about it. The noise, the bets, the camaraderie and the winning, (and to a smaller degree, even the losing). You cant love and enjoy the game and be bunionesque too. |
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