DEAR MISS MANNERS: Years ago, in my early college days, my friend and I were enjoying lounging by the pool on vacation. We are both female. Two college-aged men passed by and noticed us. One of them commented in my direction, “Well, that one’s cute,” before continuing on.
In the moment, I didn’t know what to do or say, except to look at my friend in astonishment. Nothing more was ever said of the incident.
But I have wondered, in the years since, what would have been a witty and appropriate retort? The young man’s comment was out of line, and my silence felt somehow acquiescent. I’m curious to know your thoughts.
GENTLE READER: The word “ick” comes to Miss Manners’ mind: a seemingly unintentional sound that expresses disgust — much like if one saw excrement or a dead rodent on the ground.
If silence felt complicit, this sound would have conveyed that you found the comment neither flattering nor cute.
Please send your questions to Miss Manners at missmanners.com, by email to [email protected], or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.
