Hidden Wisdoms

What are you ever really missing out on..

Hidden Wisdoms

Incessant nattering is abound in virtually every establishment. Every bar, pub, club or cafe you go to is an endless string of mundane conversation, swapping knowledge merely for its own sake.

Since I quit my job I made it my mission to frequent such establishments, local or otherwise, and to indulge in the music of conversation. As if somewhere in the orchestra of ordinary orations, daily events from one unfocused mind to another, there'd be some divine inspiration therein, a subtle note otherwise unheard. 

People don't always get this, nor do they have any understanding of what I'm doing there. They think it's appropriate to ask me questions like "what's the time?" or "how do I get to such and such?" "am I going to order anything?" It's not right. I spend my days eternally on the verge of some great breakthrough, waiting to hear the greatest conversation held in the English language.

I finally found somewhere quiet. An all night diner, at 2am, with the few remaining staff on cleaning duty minding their own business. I spy a single couple at an adjoining table, locked intently in a fierce, vibrant, seemingly awe inspiring dialogue. The man gestures as if imparting great and frantic wisdom, the young lady listens enraptured.

I lean across my table, seeing this as my final break...only to be unable to discern a single word. They are French, as it turns out, no problem for some but an insurmountable barrier for myself. My instincts regardless tell me that this is truly the piece of divine overheard coffee shop wisdom, and I can't interpret a damn word.

I try to ask if they speak English, but I am glibly ignored, dismissed. They don't understand me either.

I debate whether I should learn any new languages in my pursuit of hidden wisdom. I was never any good at them at school.

Frustrated, I pick up a nearby paper and begin an exasperated search for a new job...