I really don’t understand some people.
When you’re taking a tube, and it’s rush hour (or whatever the local term for it is), you can be assured of one thing: it’s going to be packed. Packed. Since we’re right on the border of Zone 2 and 3, chances are that at least we’ll get a decent place to stand on our morning commute.
But so far – twice this week, no less – whilst I’ve been standing there minding my own bees, holding on to the centre pole, an inconsiderate dude decides that the pole was placed there for him to lean on. Never mind that my hand was firmly planted there. Never mind that said pole was providing my only means of support (often in the middle of the carriages, there is nothing else to hold on to). Never mind that his back is disgusting and sweaty, and that, by proxy, my hand now wreaks of his body oder. So long as he is comfy, that’s really all that matters.
The first time this happened, I was somewhat surprised – surely he most have noticed that he’s leaning on my hand? And, being stubborn (and with a peppering of New York attitude), I refused to move; instead I twisted my hand around so it was my knuckles digging into his spine. But he didn’t seem to notice – or at least he didn’t care! I gave up after about ten stations and moved down the aisle a bit.
When it happened today for the second time, I at least was less surprised, though no less disgusted. I was very, very tempted to cough all over the guys neck, conjuring up as much phlegm as I possibly could. My evil imagination went into overdrive, picturing him being dragged out of the tube covered in slimey green goo. Woah hahaha hahahaaa. But of course I didn’t – I just shook my head and moved.
At least I didn’t apologise.
6 comments
You need to wear a big ring.
I bet ya any money it’s the same person who stands in front of the gates blocking the hundred or so people behind them while looking for their oyster card.
You mean the guy with the oversized luggage that stands at the top of the stairs trying to work out which way to go? I know him too!
Shaking your head is a good one – also useful for drivers who don’t respect cyclists!
I hate that guy. My knuckles never seem to make any difference either!
This kind of thing is common though – I’m still constantly amazed at how the locals are *completely* oblivious to anyone around them!
I’ve discovered this too since being in the big L. It’s like a stand-off… no one backs down. Good work with the knuckles.