‘How are you?’ is both a passing greeting and a profound inquiry | Friendship
I would like to add one more answer to the question “How are you?” » question (Letters, December 26). A very elderly neighbor, who died several years ago, always gave what became the Elton John response: “I’m still standing!” I use it myself now and remember it every time I do it.
David Duell
Durham
How miserable it hurts to write on your letters page. Following a stint in intensive care in October with an infection that I’m starting to see was much more dangerous than I thought at the time, my response to the question “How are you?” ” is “Better every day”. And – thank you very much to the NHS – may it stay that way for a long time.
Charles Harris
London
My father used to respond, “Here’s to you / As good as you are / And here’s to me / As bad as I am / But as bad as I am / And as good as you are / I’m as good as you / Bad as I am.”
Ian Winstanley
Ashton-in-Makerfield, Greater Manchester
These days, many people avoid the traditional “How are you?” » in favor of “Okay? » I never really know how to answer this question. What can I say if I’m “all wrong”?
Barbara Riddell
Epsom, Surrey
In this part of the North East of England, the most likely greeting is “Y’OK?” or “Are you all rehearsing?” – seemingly a deeper investigation into the human condition. But by the time you nod and smile, they’ve moved on with a cheery “See you later” — a time frame that seemingly includes everything from soon to probably never.
Peter Lowe
Newcastle upon Tyne
“How are you doing?” isn’t that such a short question. In Lancashire it’s just “‘Ow, are you okay?’
Carole Haines
Yealmpton, Plymouth
My grandmother, when asked how she was doing, said: “I’m walking to save funeral costs. » At 83, I am tempted to say the same thing from time to time.
Lesley Millard
Bishop’s Waltham, Hampshire
A friend responds to “How are you?” » with “Still warm to the touch”.
Very Reverend John Saxbee
Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire
I invariably answer “ish” and people always understand what I mean.
Maureen Cavanagh
Kingsley, Cheshire
