Talk, Talk, Talk

So glad you could come this year because the work he does is so different. And this is an unusual event. He always has a showing and then does a painting while we watch.

Well, I am glad you invited me.

Say, since we got here so early, we have plenty of time before he’s even started so how about a spot of something to eat?

I have to agree that would be good. Coffee maybe?

Come on, ya idiot. I’m up for more than that. I haven't had my breakfast, and my damn tummy is growling like a beast. There’s a great place that’s just down the street. Follow me.

This dining establishment serves only breakfast and lunch, but what an outstanding menu!

Yea. Hey, wait a minute! Claudia! Come here! Edgar, this is someone I’ve known for years. Claudia, meet Edgar. Come sit with us, Claudia. That’s if you’re not meeting someone.

Hi Eddie. No, it’s just me. Just came from an interview, and these things are so damn boring. Always the same questions. Always the same answers.

Incidentally, it’s Edgar. Not Eddie.

So sorry, Eddie. I mean Edgar. I kinda know how some people are with names. Particular, you know. I mean, look at my name. Claudia. Most people can’t even spell it right. But, for me, at least, it’s a minor issue. Anyway, George, I hear our friend is at it again. Is that where you’ve just been? Or are you going there after? I must admit I’m a great admirer of his work but kind of bored with the hoopla he insists on. Don’t you agree, Eddie? I mean Edgar.

I consider it intriguing, unusual, and an excellent method to familiarize the public with this form of art. George graciously requested me to accompany him today, and so far, it has not disappointed me.

George, my dear. You know, I just realized that in all the years we’ve known each other, this is the first time we’ve sat at a table together. And wouldn’t you know it, I can’t stay long.

Well, since you must go, then please don’t let us stop you, Claudia. Besides, Edgar and I don’t want to dawdle either. We want to get back to see the finale.

George is such a darling, Edgar.  Have another interview to go to after this. But since this is a first for us, I hope we don’t make it the last. 

Why, do you know, when we were in high school, Georgie practically pulled me up by my bootstraps by being my mentor in math? He insisted we meet every day, and, silly me, I remember how I tried to get out of it, but he kept pushing and pushing and wouldn’t, you know it, by the end of the semester, I actually made it. 

Claudia, there’s no need to embarrass me. Edgar, I’m sure, is uninterested in any of this. Besides, here’s our food. Let’s dig in.

Oh, Eddie.

Edgar. Edgar, please.

Sorry, sorry, Edgar. Silly me. I have this habit of forgetting the tiniest of things, and I know that makes my friends think I’m a brainless idiot. But really, with so many things—oh, this is so good — isn’t it? So tasty. But as I was saying, I have so many things on my mind, you know. My job and all. Oh, do try some of my pancakes, George. They are delish.

Don’t need to but thanks. I have plenty here. How are your eggs, Edgar?

Just fine. Cooked well. 

Oh, you are a man of few words, aren’t you? I like that in men. Makes them seem so viral. I do not like men who are wimpy. The ones who fawn all over you. But you seem like you know what you want and how to get it. By the way, how do you two know one another?

George and I met at a literary club. We both enjoy reading, and our tastes run the same.

Books? Wow! Never would have pegged you that way, Georgie. But live and let live, you know.

Edgar has even been the head speaker at one of the last conventions we went to.

Cozy, arent you two? Are you— you know?

Not at all, Claudia. I had assumed you knew that George had been married for many years.

Oh no! Georgie darling, I had no idea. You see, Edgar, we never have connected other than to say hi and bye since those days in high school. But it would be wonderful, simply wonderful if we could now, you know, Georgie darling. Wifey and all?

Claudia. Now that we’ve finished eating, Edgar and I want to get going. I see you’re not finished yet, so here’s the money for our share. Thanks for spending time with us.

Oh, don’t rush off. I know you need to get back, but please, I do have some time and —.

Sorry, but Edgar and I must be off. See you sometime soon.

My word, George! She does have the ability to talk endlessly, doesn't she?

Yea. Sorry about that. And so you can understand why I don’t hang with her.

She does not appear to be someone who would fit into our circle of friends.

Let’s get back to the studio and Roger. Even though I don’t understand his paintings, I love how he mixes colors. What about you?

George, I’m a very receptive individual. Modern art perplexes me, but with perseverance and resilience, I hope to enhance my understanding. 

Ya know one thing, Edgar? I’m so glad we met because you are teaching me to see things in a new light. And that’s always a plus. And my wife loves to have you over because your conversation is always new. You bring a vibrancy to our table, which in turn encourages us to dive deeper into a variety of different topics.

Oh my, George. You are starting to articulate in a manner similar to mine.

Well, that’s a plus. Oh, here’s the door. Let’s get in and see what the genius artist has cooked up. And maybe between the two of us, we can get some understanding of this type of art.

Oh, no, George. Don’t look now, but here comes Claudia.

Oh, fellows. My interview was canceled, and I couldn’t think of anything better to do than spend the rest of the day with both of you.

Claudia. It would be our pleasure.

Please do join us.