IT IS HIS BIRTHDAY, and Hugh and I are seated in a New York restaurant, awaiting the arrival of our fifteen-word entrées. He looks very nice, dressed in the suit and sweater that have always belonged to him. As for me, I own only my shoes, pants, shirt, and tie. My jacket belongs to the restaurant and was offered as a loan by the maître d', who apparently thought I would feel more comfortable dressed to lead a high-school marching band.
It is Hugh's birthday, and the narrator finds himself in a New York restaurant with him, anticipating their meals. Hugh looks distinguished in his customary suit and sweater, while the narrator reflects on his own attire. His own belongings are limited to just a few personal items, underscoring a contrast in their situations. The jacket he wears, lent by the restaurant's maître d', adds a humorous touch, as it seems more suited for someone in a completely different setting.
This scene sets a playful tone as Sedaris captures the nuances of their friendship and the social dynamics at play. The absurdity of borrowing a jacket while celebrating a special occasion creates a lighthearted moment that emphasizes the narrator's awareness of his surroundings. It highlights the whimsical nature of life and how even small details can make significant impressions during meaningful moments.
