I'm often misunderstood at my supermarket in Sussex, not because of my accent but because I tend to deviate from the script. Cashier: Hello, how are you this evening? Me: Has your house ever been burgled? Cashier: What? Me: Your house-has anyone ever broken into it and stolen things? With me, people aren't thinking What did you say? so much as Why are you saying that?
In his book "Calypso," David Sedaris shares a humorous anecdote about his interactions at a supermarket in Sussex. He notes that his conversations often take unexpected turns, leading to misunderstandings that are not due to his accent but rather his tendency to stray from typical social scripts. For example, when a cashier greets him, he responds with an unusual question about burglary, which catches her off guard.
This interaction highlights how Sedaris's approach can perplex others, making them wonder why he asks such unexpected questions rather than simply responding in a conventional manner. His experiences reflect a deeper commentary on social norms and how deviations from the norm can lead to confusion in everyday exchanges.
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