This is fun and I love that a bit of middle English can upset you so. But that's the challenge, isn't it? We like to suggest that manners are just a form of consideration for other people, but then tell them they must place a napkin (Isn't that a nappy in posh speak somewhere?) on their knee where it loses part of what could be a useful function of keeping clothes clean.
Perhaps we should just call these things our preferences??
Interesting point, Anne. I think there's a difference between our preferences and how we practice consideration for others. Avoiding making people feel uncomfortable is important. One is reminded of George VI drinking the finger bowl after a provincial mayor had done so. That put a stop to the sniggering. But yes, it's incorrect use of a finger bowl!
I imagine people who do eat with their mouths open unaware of what they are doing and might well be unaware of what I am doing at the same table. So, no.
This is fun and I love that a bit of middle English can upset you so. But that's the challenge, isn't it? We like to suggest that manners are just a form of consideration for other people, but then tell them they must place a napkin (Isn't that a nappy in posh speak somewhere?) on their knee where it loses part of what could be a useful function of keeping clothes clean.
Perhaps we should just call these things our preferences??
Interesting point, Anne. I think there's a difference between our preferences and how we practice consideration for others. Avoiding making people feel uncomfortable is important. One is reminded of George VI drinking the finger bowl after a provincial mayor had done so. That put a stop to the sniggering. But yes, it's incorrect use of a finger bowl!
That's a classic example, but would you go so far as to eat with your mouth open to make someone comfortable??
I imagine people who do eat with their mouths open unaware of what they are doing and might well be unaware of what I am doing at the same table. So, no.
O, cunning! Xx