Lee Wochner: Writer. Director. Writing instructor. Thinker about things.


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Things people just say

I just asked someone, “What time is it?”

She responded, “Now?”

“No,” I said, “12 minutes ago.” Who would want to know what time it isn’t? (I could guess what time it isn’t, and always be right.) Of course you want to know what time it is now. So why do people so frequently respond with, “Now”?

4 Responses to “Things people just say”

  1. Concerned Rich Says:

    Often, people take “What time is it?” for a philosophical question, in which case “Now?” is an appropriate response.

  2. Dan Says:

    I think you’re asking wrong: try, “Pardon me, can you tell me the time?” I mean, if you’re starting out with “WHAT TIME IS IT? Yeah, I’m talking to you, ya feckless little twit!” well, you’re just bound to get some unhelpful responses.

  3. Dan Says:

    Or another problem might be: Are you using this question as a way of introducing yourself to attractive young persons? At a party or a bar, do you walk up to a good-looking young lady and pose this question, accompanying it with a suave smile, a raised eyebrow and a knowing wink? And does she then turn her gaze on you, somewhat in the manner of a French Aristocrat just invited to climb onto the tumbril and ask, “Now?”

  4. Paul Says:

    At my place of employment we have a copier that is in need of a replacement part and currently not working. There is a sign on it saying “out of order”. One of the people I work with said to me, there’s an out of order sign on the copier does that mean its broken?

    I had to keep a really smart assed remark to myself.

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