My fiance and I had dinner Tuesday night with Jon Rauch and his boyfriend. I’ve known Jonathan for many years; he’s not just one of the most decent and principled writers I know; he’s a lovely guy. But he’s also hard to get to know, a little socially awkward at times, occasionally remote. He mentioned that one piece he had once written had proven over the years to be the most popular he’d ever had published. Here it is. Money quote:
Do you know someone who needs hours alone every day? Who loves quiet conversations about feelings or ideas, and can give a dynamite presentation to a big audience, but seems awkward in groups and maladroit at small talk? Who has to be dragged to parties and then needs the rest of the day to recuperate? Who growls or scowls or grunts or winces when accosted with pleasantries by people who are just trying to be nice? If so, do you tell this person he is “too serious,” or ask if he is okay? Regard him as aloof, arrogant, rude? Redouble your efforts to draw him out?
If you answered yes to these questions, chances are that you have an introvert on your hands‚ and that you aren’t caring for him properly.
No one believes me, but I think I may be one too. Jonathan has a Q and A about the article here.
The Dish 