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Ode to the grapevine

Who does not love gossip? But, observe rules to ensure everyone has a good time

PERFECT TIME-PASS For boys and girls

How often have you heard your friend whisper into your ears: "I am only telling you this. Promise you won't tell a soul."

You can be sure she would have told a hundred people the same thing.

Welcome to the world of gossip.

This art, initially confined to women, is now seeing men turning to it big time to keep pace with what's happening in the workplace.

Not just women

Earlier, when men discussed business at parties, the women would flit from table to table gathering news and dropping some juicy titbits for others to discuss at length.

Now it is Adam's turn. Admits, Vivian, sales executive: "We do gossip, but in the right sense. We never run down anyone."

Never gossiped

But, some still swear off it. Like the retired army official who has never gossiped and does not see himself doing so at this age.

For collegian Rajan, a final year engineering student, gossip happens when friends discuss their Saturday night plans.

These days, gossip is being encouraged too.

With work schedules leaving people with little time to have fun, it is gossip that breaks the ice and helps them take a break.

And, the number of people who gossip is only growing.

So much so that there are entire websites devoted to gossip, be it teen gossip, business gossip or e-gossip. The popularity of websites like www.itgossip.net, which gives (as the caption goes) "What you need, when you need it", and www.gossipcity.com where you can never miss out on any gossip, only proves it.

Be credible

Gossiping also has its flip side. If your sources are not good enough, your credibility is at stake.

Talking about what you've heard and being petty is alright once in a while but if you are constantly loose lipped and come out with sketchy stories, your reputation will take a beating.

Don't get personal

So, how do you decide when to stop? When you think you've hit the nerve of an individual.

As a rule, avoid getting personal. Bad-mouthing outsiders and movies are acceptable; not fellow students and their families. And, remember that whenever you pass on a canard, someone's reputation dies.

Never let gossip turn into a conversation. It is time-pass and should stay just that.

BHAVNA NEELAKANTAN

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