Conversation

Why can't lovers say what they feel? Should children be seen and not heard? Can talking save families from fighting? Why do some people find it easier to talk to machines? Should you tell your workmates what you really think? Why do men find it difficult to express their feelings? What are the virtues of silence? IF YOU WANT BETTER CONVERSATIONS with your lover, your colleagues at work, your family, friends or strangers, or yourself, Conversation explains what kind of talk charmed and excited people in the past, and why conversation is different today. It shows how women have changed the ways lovers speak, how families avoid silence or boredom, how your work can damage or improve the way you converse, and what role there is for the tongue-tied and shy. It will enable you to see more clearly what you want to talk about, and what conversation can do to your life. When THEODORE ZELDIN'S talks were broadcast on Radio 4, many listeners wrote to the BBC saying that they would like a copy of the text. Some added that they had become so absorbed while listening that they were late for work. The six talks are published here in full, together with thirty-six pictures and thirty-six topics of conversation.