Talk to Me

by Nyllone

Meeting new people in There is easy.  Just say "Hi!", do the wave emote ('wave) followed by "How are you?" and "Where are you from?"  Those questions can jumpstart a conversation.  But make sure you give time for the person to answer.  Or else, it would look like an interview of some sort.  And it wouldn't be fun at all.  Usually those questions can really break the ice, and can start a good conversation.  Unfortunately, some people cannot follow through, especially when all they want is to sit and make out.  Whenever.  Wherever.  Who hasn't encountered, "Wanna kiss?" during the first few days in the spawn areas?  That could really hamper your social skills as you try to avoid talking to the person altogether.  Then again, if you enjoy it, then perhaps by the time you're on your second month, you are a Legendary Kisser.  Unfortunately, there is no such skill.

There are also people who would start trying to compliment you, especially if you're girl.  "You're hot."  "You look sexy."  "Nice ass."  Those remarks could be a warning that you are talking to a potential pervert.  It's either you teleport away, or you ignore.  Thus, no further talking ensues.

Another reason for having an aborted conversation is when you are asked of your age and you turn out to be "a little too old" for the asking party.  For some reason, most young people in There do not seem to be delighted to be in the company of adults.  They often run away when they learn you're not a teen anymore.  Like it's some kind of a curse or something.  Some can even be rude.  But some would try to be nice as they think of their way out and walk slowly, backwards.

Scenario: 
Male avatar: (Trying to hit on Ny)  Hey sexy!  How old are you?  'wink 'wink 'wink
Ny:  'Hmmm...  I am 62.  *cough*
Male avatar:  Oh wow.  You could be my grandma!  GTG! 'wave 'wave 'wave
Ny:  ??? 
(Who says age doesn't matter again?  Disclaimer:  The author is younger than 62.)

One understandable reason, however, for a discontinued dialog is the language barrier.  Some barely speak English, which makes it difficult for them to communicate initially.  Thanks to various clubs that offer a sense of belongingness to non-English-speaking new members.  And to the Island Guides that speak more than one language who help out in communicating with them.  Unfortunately, some people use their native language to speak against someone, or to intentionally leave out someone in the group, which could be really rude.

However, apart from these reasons, meeting new people in the world is easy.  But it's making new friends that takes a while.  And it goes beyond hi's and hello's. 

The best kind of friend is
the kind you can sit on a porch swing with,
never say a word, then walk away feeling
like it was the best conversation
that you ever had.

 

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