3578. The role that General Kutuzov found himself performing
at these dinner parties was that of the director of conversation. He
accomplished this task with invisible aplomb, and nobody ever knew he was exercising
any skills at all. With a seemingly innocent question directed to the inattentive
guest, or a quizzical clearing of the throat after someone’s too forceful statement,
he directed the discussion from one idea to the next.
3579. In order to direct a large conversation well, a person
must be able to read the mental state of the guests at a glance. It takes an
eye instantly attuned to the moods and attitudes of others. Not only that, but
it requires a broad knowledge of history, the arts and contemporary affairs, so
as to know what idea to bring up, and what to disregard.
3580. Talk of ballet can lead seamlessly to discussion of
opera, and from there to the latest museum exhibit, but a master of the
conversation might unexpectedly introduce the topic of the change of garden
design after the French Revolution, or the disappearance of the cravat in men's
fashion.
3581. These ideas might be inserted into the conversation by
the General because of his remembrance of the stage design or costuming of a
new play, and the comment or question might be directed to a Countess known for
the landscaping of her classical gardens, especially if that very Countess
seemed to be losing interest in the festivities.
No comments:
Post a Comment