Thursday, July 22, 2004

where are you from?

New acquaintance: "Where are you from?"
Me: "San Francisco/U.S."
New acquaintance: "Where are you from originally?"
Me: "Maryland."
New acquaintance: "No, where are you really from? Where were your parents from?"
...

Ever have that happen? I've had that kind of conversation in multiple countries, not just the U.S. I guess I just don't look "American" to some people. Some people won't give up until I've explained my parents' entire emigration history. I enjoy baffling them with my "Maryland" response.

While a this kind of inquiry is a little annoying at times, I never realized that it is a violation of etiquette.

I'd like to know a polite response to stem inquiry beyond my reply of "San Francisco."

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