Already a subscriber? Log in
Q. The discussion about what car to take to school functions reminds me of the problem which arose when I attended such occasions at my daughters’ public school. Having no car which, in my judgment, would compete, let alone dominate other cars in the park, I chose not to shame them with my green Granada. Instead my practice was to drive a decaying Fiat Panda, thereby firmly conveying the impression that it was a second car, perforce being used while the Rolls/Bentley was in the garage for servicing. No parent at Sherborne would have as their only car a Fiat Panda.
E.D.G., Lostwithiel, Cornwall
A. Thank you for this useful tip.
Q. My daughter is unmarried at 38 but she is beautiful, clever and productive, highly paid and actually rather counting her blessings that she is not saddled with some grumbling old git. When I meet new people and they ask me about myself and whether I have children, inevitably they will ask about my daughter, ‘Is she married?’ How can I say ‘No’ in a positive way without overcompensating?
H.P., London W2
A. Why not raise your eyebrows saucily the way, in response to the same question, mothers of 38-year-old bachelors do and say, ‘No. Apparently she’s what’s called a bachel-her — one of this new generation of single women with everything going for them who simply can’t be persuaded to give up their freedom.’ Thus you will show that far from her being a Bridget Jones, your daughter’s single status is something she has been careful to conserve.
Also in Society
Also by Mary Killen
Latest
Comments
Join the debate for just $5 for 3 months
Be part of the conversation with other Spectator readers by getting your first three months for $5.
UNLOCK ACCESS Just $5 for 3 monthsAlready a subscriber? Log in