Author: Martin Cichy
Location: Usti nad Labem
I recorded this story in the town of Rehlovice with Jozef Pohlod, a Rom from Usti nad Labem. I went to see him on a Saturday when he and his wife and kids were working in the garden. It was a beautiful day, so we sat down and began talking about his work. The atmosphere was friendly, and Jozef began to talk about his jobs. His wife and two children listened carefully to his experiences. Jozef is twenty-eight years old, tall and robust, of dark complexion with green eyes and dark hair.
"I’m a locksmith by training. But I couldn’t find a job, so I decided to get a business license and start on my own.
The work is good and interesting. I’ve only had the business for a year, but because we live in the country there’s always plenty to do. People need their gates, doors, and lamps repaired. And Imake steel devices and products.
One day a guy I know came to ask me to make steel bars for his windows and doors: he and his wife were leaving for a vacation at the seashore.
But I had a problem. My partner in the business got sick and had to go to the hospital. I couldn’t tell the client: it wasn’t anything for him to worry about.
I had two days and nights to deliver. I started on my own and worked through the first night. Then I remembered my brother-in- law and asked him to give me a hand. I was lucky. Together we managed to forge the bars and mount them. The client was happy and began to recommend me to his friends. I received good money for the job, and split it with my brother-in- law. Since then, I’ve been known as a fast and reliable worker.”
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