I read this in the Times Literary Supplement, 25.4.2008.
Evelyn Waugh was interviewed in the BBC Radio, in Frankly Speaking.
Q: Do you find it easy to get on with the man in the street?
A: I've never met such a person.
Q: Do you like people generally when you meet them on trains or buses?
A: I never travel on a bus, nor would I address a person on a train.
How do you talk to him?
Why should I talk to him?
ReplyDeleteYou don't like the common man, or what?
ReplyDelete:)
during travel i used to start my communication like this. you should not ask questions as start of conversation. just pass on a common comment like.
ReplyDeleteit is very hot today.
the sun is the hottest or
these young ones, no respect or
oh the trains are always late or
all the conductors are callous
mostly the other will be tempted to reply. even if he doesnt you dont worry because you didnt post any questions to be answered.
"These young ones, no respect", is a gem.
ReplyDeleteUsually complaints work well to start the conversation, is it that?