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Allan Degra's avatar

I don’t know if this is the algorithm at work, but I had never heard of Mr.Bierce prior to today. Then within five posts on my feed he’s mentioned twice…

Allan Degra's avatar

🫡

Tom White's avatar

He's terrific. This short story of his is a must read: https://www.gutenberg.org/cache/epub/375/pg375-images.html

Cathie Campbell's avatar

Very creative writing. Mutual authenticity is wonderful yet cautious audacity of pretension is expressed eloquently here. Trust is absent such that careful orchestration is cadence. Sincerity is absent for a reason and sometimes that is sensed so strongly that mutual depth will never arise either from a first encounter or after years of recognition. Well described.

Tom White's avatar

Thank you, Cathie! I find that most of what we call conversation is just comfortable pantomiming — a careful, calibrated process that ensures the topical ball stays within predetermined lines.

Cathie Campbell's avatar

Those who trust each other are authentic conversationalists. The rest pantomime to protect themselves from darts of degradation. Respect is earned, not instantly given.