In fact, what IS the genteel life these days? I'd like to feel like I'm sitting in plush leather, in a satin smoking jacket, sipping the best cognac, sharing a good cigar with great fellows in my company, all the while with a little classic jazz in the background on the perfect McIntosh analogue system. I don't want to actually do any of this, just feel that way about what I am doing.
I've lived pretty well most of my life. I have a decent house that is full of heirlooms and is kept nicely. I know my foods, eaten in the best restaurants, I know the wines, the sauces, all that. I've been to theater, to concerts, seen great conductors and performers. I'm not that well read or traveled, but I've done enough to not be a dolt at a cocktail party. I was raised solid middle class with plenty of money and played golf at the country club as a sub teen and teen. I've got almost impeccable manners at the table and elsewhere in the home and in public. (When I'm not being an ass
) I've worn custom tailored suits (no silk, however), wool slacks and cashmere sweaters and sport coats. I guess I saved the silk for socks.
I play a fundamental chess game. I thought I'd like to learn to play bridge, but then I thought maybe I wouldn't care for that too much. I'm not mathematically inclined like a good poker player, so beating people at games is not my cup of tea. In fact, I don't need to win at anything. Just be good at what I do. Maybe cards or board games are not too sophisticated anyway. Doesn't bother me either way. Perhaps I digress with the games.
Some things I have not done: I haven't shot a fine shotgun or ridden a great horse. I never learned to fly and so have not flown wonderful vintage planes. I don't particularly like the water, so I've not sailed a spectacular yacht.. Never played polo, that I can tell you.
I speak and read one language.
The thing is, I'm not impressed with any of that or myself for having done any of it . If I was, I'd do it still. I felt like a teenager driving the '71S, M&K equipped 911. So far, I like the '88 Carrera better. In fact, I've made a decision to move to a 964 or 993 after this one, if it becomes viable. That's the only
genteel thing I can think of that I like. Otherwise, I'd much rather make or build something. I prefer to work with my hands rather than sit at a desk.
BUT. I want a genteel lifestyle. Or at least I'd like to think I'm leading a
lifestyle. Gentlemen ( and ladies), how does this work?
Don't tell me to go join Tabs for some of his espresso and then take in a buffet.
I've been a veggie for 21 years, so all I get is rabbit food anyway. And, I gave up alcohol, so a single malt is lost on me.
BTW, why do I ask this question? Well, when I think that way, I'm happier. Less stress, too. Bottom line, I was born and raised in a white collar professional family and willingly launched myself into the blue collar world when I departed at age 18, repudiating all the entitlements of the
bourgeois. Catch 22, ain't it? Someone will point out that money doesn't buy intangibles.
Let's hear it from the peanut gallery about your or your acquaintance's sophistication. If you want to call it that. Any terms are acceptable.