December 29, 2023:
My imaginary friend is Robbie the Robot, from Forbidden Planet.
This is a deliberate, self-conscious decision. I've been told, whether by kids or adults I no longer recall, that it's common for kids to have imaginary friends, and that they're fun. I should have one, then. I make the decision walking home from sitters', on the sidewalk alongside the runoff channel steps from our driveway.
Why Robbie, specifically?
Robots are cool; Robbie is protective; mommy loves science fiction.
He's my friend for some while. I talk to him frequently — quite often while walking home from sitters'. He never replies, but I like that he listens. Largely, for the most part, to one-way conversations about games, reading, my kitty, and, soon, rock and roll music.