While attending a party last year, I was introduced to some friends of a friend who were quite interested in engaging me in conversation.
“We understand you’re a movie critic,” said the husband, smiling.
“Yes,” I said, “for over 25 years now.” After a long silent pause, I followed up with, “Are you and your wife big movie fans?”
She replied, “Yes, very much so. We’re just not big fans of critics.”
Not exactly your usual getting-to-know-you chit-chat, but as they were both being semi-cordial, I tried to engage them further by mirroring their directness and asked, “What exactly is it you don’t like about critics?”…