Conversational types

Conversation is not always about talking. There is emotional conversation, which is similar to nuzzling. This is pillow talk, where people make up their own words and speak utter nonsense. The value in this conversation is simply hearing the other person’s voice. No one will remember what is said or makes any pretense to think about what they’re saying.

There is the power struggle conversation, where a person tries to beat the other in debate. This is more like sparring than talking. Jabs are thrown as feeler arguments, and regardless if we agree or disagree with what the other person is saying, we try to sneak in our left hook. Conversations of this type are not about working through a point; they are about bludgeoning.

There is small talk, or getting to know you talk. This is the equivalent of circling around someone and checking them out, but through language. Innocent questions in these types of conversations are not necessarily so innocent. They are often probes, as a doctor might needle you prior to making a complete diagnosis.