Right up front I will say that I am an avid reader and, if I'm being honest, a conversationalist as well. Which means I talk a lot if you touch on the right subject. The right subject could be anything to do with science or academia, music, literature, pop culture, etc. So when I am starting a new job or class, or meeting new people in any situation, I generally start conversations with questions like "So, What shows do you watch?". Or "Are you reading anything good right now?". More often than not I am greeted by a blank stare and silence. Not to be deterred, I will follow up with "What kind of music are you into?", or "What is your favorite restaurant in this area?". Almost everyone listens to music and everyone eats, right. Quite often though my questions are met with answers like "I don't read.", and "You know, a little of everything." Being a city punk for most of my life I am used to being around lots of people (read strangers) with many different interests and hobbies. That's the beauty of the city. All those different lives happening all around you. I have met so many interesting people with such wonderful stories.
I consider myself a "professional new guy" because I have moved around quite a bit in my life, although I have been slowing down as I grow older. This has given me the unique ability to make friends and blend in rather quickly when I do find somewhere to put down roots. These little intro conversations are the key to making connections to people around you and people genuinely enjoy talking about themselves when given the opportunity. I enjoy meeting new people sometimes and networking is everything in our modern society.
At first, it is always a good idea to stay away from controversial topics such as politics, religion, even family. My own opinions on certain topics can be quite extreme and require some context and knowledge of my past to fully appreciate. The point of this post is really to say that the best conversations are usually once I find a few like-minded people that can handle the sarcasm and dark humor that often pervade my discussions. One of my favorite things is to be involved in a heated debate amongst friends with totally different perspectives of the world and still be able to love each other afterwards. Intelligence is also very sexy. If my partner can hold up her end of the conversation, or better yet challenge my ideals, I will be endlessly fascinated and we will probably have many long nights. Being physically attracted to someone is important, that is often how we first notice one another, but being attracted to someone's personality and mind is so much more important to me. I want to know your story and I want to share mine.
Am I old school and lame? How do you feel about this?