On social relations in the vintage dancing world.

[regfoghorn]

Given what has been posted about behavior in the vintage dance world, where I am a sort of wallflower, I'm worried about future interactions with anyone under the age of 50, as I don't want to come off or be seen as potentially harmful to young people.

As a person of large stature, this is something that I've worried about for years. The world automatically assumes that large guys are socially unacceptable and dangerous. It probably dates back generations - before movie star Fatty Arbuckle, possibly back to King Henry VIII.

I am not harmful, nor do I intend harm. I may flirt, but I'm not very good at it, so I more or less limit myself to complimenting someone on their outfit or hairstyle.

So to the world at large: Please do not take offense at what I do. Call me on it, you will receive an apology and I will endeavor to change how I interact with you. Parents, do not be afraid of me for your children's sake - I have taken care of small children and acted in loco parentis, and I would never hurt them.

Thanks for reading.

Comments

[terpsichoros.livejournal.com]

At least part of the problem is that you are the victim of a double standard. If someone a young woman finds unattractive flirts with her, he's creepy. If someone the young woman finds attractive flirts with her, it's ok.