An exchange of pleasantries’ covers anything from a conversation on a particular topic to a tête-à-tête’ between two old cronies. Underlying this is an agreement to spend the odd hour in sharing views, opinions and discussing topical issues.

This can become so engrossing that one doesn’t even notice the passage of time. And it all comes down to a light-hearted banter that sums up the moment. Because it’s all about cementing relationships nothing goes amiss. Only facial expressions and body language assume importance at the critical moment.

Since so much has to be said within a time limit emphasis is given to the weightier issues delivered in a suitable tone. Whenever one pauses to let a point sink, the other takes up the cue. More so when there is something to add to the conversation.

There is something to be said about expressing oneself. Only those who are a part of the scene will acknowledge any doubts raised. At these times stopgap measures will

not do and the broken ends must be put together for a resumption of the small talk.

In discussion in the exchange are happenings, incidences and general news. These are savoured to the fullest extent possible when all those in the conversation are in mood.

Also, there is a brief fling into the past and a review of the moment as it presents itself. The odd conversation brings with it a renewal of interest and a commitment to do something. It’s a way of taking advantage of the opportune moment. So that everything comes around full circle with no effort on the part of those concerned.

In holding a conversation something is best left unsaid if it means hurting sentiments — even if this entails withholding information of vital interest to the other.

Thus bringing oneself in tune with current happenings becomes a way of reckoning. This requires more than a half-hearted attempt if it’s going to have any kind of effect.

‘An exchange of pleasantries’ begins and ends on a pleasant note. There are no barbed comments or innuendoes and everything is dealt with in a fair-and-square manner so that there are no hard feelings.