From Toby Young Q. I am a theatre critic currently
appearing in a one-man show in the West End. Not surprisingly, several of my colleagues have been less than generous about my performance. One in particular, a man I’ve always had a very congenial relationship with, was absolutely vicious, saying he hoped I’d leave the country. When I resume my duties as a critic, I’ll inevitably bump into this man two or three times a week and I’m not sure how to behave. Should I just pretend I didn’t read his review and greet him in the normal manner? Or should I abandon all attempts to maintain friendly relations?
A. When you resume your duties, break the ice instantly by rushing across to say ‘I’m so sorry you got all that stick over my play.’ Put your hand up to brook no interruptions as you continue: ‘I mean, I said to people, “He was just trying to show he’s non-partisan and he went slightly over the top. So what?”’ Shaking your head solemnly from side to side add, ‘I said, “No way does this discredit his judgment in general just because this one thing backfired. ... ”’ Then slap him reassuringly on the back with the pay-off: ‘Don’t worry. I’ve always stood up for you and I always will.’
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