My first shag was in an apartment I rented in 1974. I'd like to say it was a high point in my life but, upon reflection, it was a total mistake. I don't even remember what color it was. And, though it looked good at the time I'm pretty sure I'd find it downright ugly now. It was just one of those spur-of-the-moment things that you live to regret. It never occurred to me that there was more to having a shag than just laying it on the floor. A shag entails a long-term commitment. I was totally unprepared. Heck, I didn't even have a vacuum-cleaner and you just can't keep shag carpeting clean with a broom.