As you get older, you drop the specific questions. You get more general. You see the patterns. See past the inane, the momentary — grow to appreciate the inane, the momentary.

People walking up to each other as if they are old chums. Talking, giving long anecdotes — they’ve never met. They just like to talk. Mouths never stop. Talking about improv comedy — Second City — and their education. Laughing insincerely. Speaking with continuous lilt: “you know? isn’t that wild?” Travel, polo shirts, connections. Hot out of college and onto the job market.

Very expensive sandwiches and beverages.

Rent and groceries — not a bad lifestyle if you can meet it.

one as a person
No one
someone

Person standing ildy while people around her die; X-files style show; comes up with bizarre theory that would be right in any normal drama; “are you insane?!” people would ask; turns out, yes, actually. The end.