The techniques of opening conversation are universal. I knew long ago and rediscovered that the best way to attract attention, help, and conversation is to be lost. A man who seeing his mother starving to death on a path kicks her in the stomach to clear the way, will cheerfully devote several hours of his time giving wrong directions to a total stranger who claims to be lost.

John Steinbeck (1902-1968) American writer
Travels with Charley: In Search of America, Part 1 (1962)

 
Added on 6-Aug-09 | Last updated 6-Aug-09
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