In the latest instalment of The Guardian's long-running Blind Date column, two 29-year-old strangers, Toby, a data analyst, and Liam, a civil servant, were paired up for a dinner and drinks experience in London. The feature, which has been a staple since 2009, aims to connect individuals for a spontaneous evening, with participants sharing their honest reflections afterward.
A Night of Tangents and Introspection
Toby entered the date with no expectations, describing Liam as somewhat shy initially. Their conversation flowed through various topics, from favourite films, music, and books to the deep introspective capacity often found among queer men. Liam proved attentive, keeping up with Toby's tangents, which added a layer of intellectual engagement to the evening.
The Awkward Meme Moment
However, the most awkward moment arose when Liam referenced the "six seven" meme. Both men felt they were two generations too old for it, leaving Toby unsure how to react. This highlighted a subtle generational disconnect, despite their shared age, adding a humorous yet cringe-worthy twist to their interaction.
Table Manners and Personal Insights
When it came to dining, both admitted to being somewhat feral in devouring the gorgeous food at Erev in London W11, showcasing a relaxed and unfussy approach. Toby noted that the best thing about Liam was how he spoke about his friends, indicating they mean a great deal to him, which painted Liam as a loyal and caring individual.
Post-Date Reflections
In the Q&A segment, Toby described Liam in three words as attentive, kind, and Scottish, while Liam saw Toby as zesty, cute, and chatty. Both agreed there was no romantic spark, with Toby refusing to give a numerical score, simply enjoying the experience without compatibility. Liam rated it a solid 7, praising the great food and fun chat.
They did not kiss or go on elsewhere, ending the night at the restaurant. Toby wondered if Liam moderated his behaviour for a higher score, adding a layer of introspection to the evening's dynamics. Liam wished for more romantic connection but appreciated the fun company.
About The Guardian's Blind Date
The Blind Date column pairs strangers weekly, featuring their stories in Saturday magazine and online. Applicants provide details like age, occupation, and interests to aid matching, though it remains a blind process. Only first names, jobs, and ages are published, with answers edited for length and clarity. The column aims to foster connections, though it doesn't guarantee finding "The One."
Interested individuals in the UK can apply by emailing blind.date@theguardian.com, with many applicants based in London but welcomes from elsewhere. This edition underscores the mix of awkwardness, fun, and self-discovery that defines modern dating experiences.
