This is from one of Svitlana's magazines for English teachers in Ukraine. It makes me think that Ukrainians are Martians, or someone was having a good time writing it, or both.
"A
high five is a celebratory gesture made by two people, each raising one hand to slap the raised hand of the other – usually meant to communicate mutual satisfaction to spectators or to extend congratulations from one person to another. The arms are usually extended into the air to form the ‘high’ part, and the five fingers of each hand meet, making the ‘five,’ thus the name. In addition to the standard high five, several variations exist in order to add uniqueness to the experience and to maximize satisfaction.
If one initiates a high five by raising a hand into the air and no one consummates the celebration by slapping the raised hand, the initiator is said to be ‘left hanging.’ This is considered to be a somewhat embarrassing faux pas. Initiating a high five excessively can also be considered a faux pas."
What!
ReplyDeleteWhat is this magazine? Is it intended to teach Ukrainians about American culture?
If I send you a treasure would you send me one in return? I'm sorry I've been a terrible pen pal but things are really going to change.
Jacek
JACEK, MY PRECIOUS TREASURE. Yes yes of course let’s rekindle our correspondence. I met a fellow volunteer this weekend who reminded me of you, and it both broke and soothed my heart.
ReplyDeleteOh, and I have no idea who is responsible for this publication. It's put out for teachers of English in Ukraine, possibly by British people. I wonder how I can ascend to their editorial board.
I send my love to you, I send my days to you, send it all to you...!
I am in charge of that publication. Me.
ReplyDeleteHahahaha. This is incredible for it's hilarity and accuracy. I never thought the idea to be left hanging would be succinctly described. The last sentence just about seals the deal for me - this is my future profession.
ReplyDelete