Can you flirt on the Tube?

Eldred Rogers, author of 'Train Diaries' certainly thinks it's possible. Talking to ITV, in one of those 'quirky' local news items that often sets Glitterditch's teeth on edge, the debut novelist discussed his theories on how to find love when crammed into the Underground.

Interestingly, he believes that the Tube is an ideal place to meet prospective partners, as you get familiar with someone through the regular interaction of sharing a commute. Added to this, it is a low-maintenance and unavoidable part of your routine (unlike socialising), and so requires little effort. It might be minus the alcohol buzz (at least for some of us), but with the bright lighting you fully see what someone looks like when deciding whether you want to get them naked. Rogers went on to say how one gender is much better at flirting when riding the Bakerloo line home than the other. But which one is it: men or women?

It's women, of course. The male flirting technique is often comprised of godawful chat-up lines and lusty leering and Rogers seemed somewhat despairing about his fellow sex. "The guys have not been able to get the flirting techniques right", he lamented, whereas in contrast "girls have it down to a tee."

So how can men up their game? "As long as you're not gawking… that's fine," he advises. "I think guys should smile, look straight in her eyes… have a bit more composure." Got that lads?

Glitterditch is pretty sceptical about all this and tries to ignore those manic, smiling people on the Tube, not encourage them. But Rogers notes that meeting people on a train "is a new trend," so if you're a single commuter looking for love, why not go for it? Just prepare yourself for some weird looks and perhaps the odd whack to the head.

Flickr image from MHGau's photostream.

Written by Katie on 4 Apr 2008 2:41 PM. Permalink