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It seems to me it is a necessary qualification of a good conversationalist not only to avoid boring others but also to avoid being bored himself. So as not to have to suffer twice what does not at all interest me, I first of all consider avoiding getting into a conversation with the person altogether. If I find that impractical, in that he lives next door or works in the same shop or is related to my second cousin or if I need him for some of his other qualities, then I discover which of the several things that might be on his mind are on my mind too. Thereupon, when I meet him, I maneuver the talk around to those topics. In this way, we can both be happy. |
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