I’ve never had much time for small-talk, but now, as I’m getting on*, I simply can’t do it at all and I explicitly refuse to do it - as part of my manifesto. I strongly – and slightly madly I must admit, being a sensible person - believe in genuine, no-nonsense ice-breakers that feature tension, anxiety, clash or even shock. Form now on my official policy is to put them to good, constructive use within the first few minutes of a conversation.
When I meet new people I’ll say (well, as I’ve been saying for a long while now, but without any written commitment): ‘So how do you feel about your upcoming death?’ or ‘You realise you’re going to – if statistics are anything to go by – fall out big way with your bestest friend. Regardless of what it’ll really be about - what do you think it should be about?’ or even ‘What’s the main reason your right to vote should be taken away**?’
PS Speaking of the last one, how about you? (Besides, Cardiff feels now like Palma, Mallorca, doesn’t it? At least so tell me my pupils.)
