Here’s a great passage in narrative literature: the premise for the movie I Am Legend.

A genetically re-engineered measles virus, originally created as a “miracle cure for cancer,” mutates into a lethal, highly pathogenic strain known as Krippin Virus (KV). KV has infected and killed 90 per cent of the human population.

Those that are not killed turn into vampiric, albino, cannibalistic mutants called Darkseekers, who are extremely vulnerable to sunlight and roam at night, preying on the one per cent of humans who have become naturally immune survivors.

So, what are you up to this afternoon?

Now, time for a local end-of-the-world movie plot: I Am Land Use.

The Official Community Plan, engineered and approved by a majority of Victoria city council as the path to affordability and sensitive neighbourhood infill, morphs into a neighbourhood-crushing, six-storey-tall monster.

“What can be done?” cry citizens, some still hoping for official understanding. Local government, responsive to community concerns, hires a consultant to prepare a report.

Some brave citizens, desperate for a more sensitive growth strategy, defend their neighbourhoods. They are joined by the Pandora Avenue homeless, who say, “We can relate.”

Finally, the monster destroys itself by overdosing........

© Times Colonist