If I Were Lady Whistledown
I can’t lie — I’m a big fan of Lady Whistledown (and that pen name!). In season 2 of the Netflix series Bridgeton, she becomes a focal point, understandably. Once they revealed her identity and her discretion while gathering her stories is shown, it reminded me of myself. Not because I’m a gossiper (like at all!) but because I overhear a lot of conversations that I wish not to be part of — but which I sometimes go back to in my head to build dialogues.
Never do I intend to eavesdrop on anyone, but for some reason I find myself in that situation quite a lot. (Anyone remember Eavesdropping on the M Path?)
Just this past weekend, I was at a bar sitting next to a group of friends who clearly had a lot to catch up on. “Homeboy,” said one of the girls, as she told the story of a recent date. “You either meet me half-way or there will be no way.”
I was glad I ordered a second drink so I could be there to hear the rest of it. Also, even though I didn’t know this woman, I was proud of her. In fact, I never even turned around to see who was speaking. She remains faceless to me yet still relatable. Besides, I really didn’t need a face. The story was entertaining and that was all. (Of course, it would be a different story if I were Lady Whistledown.)
But I was entertained because, as a storyteller, I’m inevitably drawn to and excited about hearing other people’s anecdotes. I’m also always fascinated by how much our human experiences connect us.
The girl went on with her story and she wasn’t shy about detailing all that happened. Occasionally, her friends chimed in, making it even more amusing. After many laughs (my chuckles included), one could conclude that man wasn’t getting a second date. That’s when I thought, boy, the stories I’d tell in this city if I were Lady Whistledown… and no one would even know. [insert devilish emoji]
No harm intended, though. All for fun. And, characters would remain unknown…as writers already know.
But, alas, Lady Whistledown anonymity level wouldn’t work in today’s society, where everything can be tracked down. Nor would it work in a touristic city. I also couldn’t help but wonder, would I really want to remain sort of a ghost…writer?
I think for now, I’ll just keep watching the stories within the story and appreciate the fancy words in Lady W’s magnificent storytelling.
