40.) We Listen To Your Conversation On The Subway

Eavesdropping, snooping, spying--call it whatever you want, but if you and your friend are talking loudly on the subway, we're all listening. The subway is a very boring place. A whole bunch of people, sitting uncomfortably close to each other, trying desperately to avoid any eye contact or interaction. We stare at our feet, our bags, or the advertising lining the subway. Advertising is a good bet to pass a little time, but you're going to see the same ads over and over for weeks (does the name Dr. Zizmor ring a bell for anyone?).

So, when we suddenly notice a loud, distinct conversation, we listen in--not to eavesdrop, per se, but to help pass the time. And sometimes you get lucky, and get to listen to some really interesting stuff. I once spent a whole subway ride, late at night, listening to an off-duty police officer talking to an obviously drunk and homeless man about ways to take care of himself. The homeless man kept getting scared, but the officer would say "I'm not here to bust you! We just talking." It was one of the most fascinating conversations I've ever listened to.

If you want to discuss sensitive government secret, I wouldn't do it on the subways. But if you have some juicy gossip, or want to bitch about a co-worker, I'm sure there are several straphangers that will appreciate it.

Written By Joe Lankheet
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