[etiquette part 1] gentlemen are unnecessary today

Chivalry, etiquette, romance – surely dead as a dodo with the new multi-partner, dirty talking, reconstructed, inwardly-focussed and ambitious woman who knows every single one of her rights?

Where does that leave the opening of doors, the laying of a cloak in a puddle, the concern for your partner? In a puddle with the cloak? The Japanese have strict rules of etiquette, even today. Closer to home, how many of the following antediluvian precepts are still relevant? This is from an article by Michael Bucci [pre-blogging days]:

1 Always be polite. Even if you don't like someone, there is no need to lower yourself to his level. Show that you're the better man.

2 Never swear. It shows that you don't have the vocabulary to express your thoughts appropriately.

3 Do not speak loudly. It always implies that you can't reason with people. It also draws negative attention.

4 Do not lose your temper. When you lose your temper, you are showing everyone that you can't control your emotions.

5 Do not stare. Ogling at someone is the equivalent of psychological aggression.

6 Never interrupt. Let people finish what they are saying before adding in your comments. Interrupting is egotistical.

7 Do not spit. A lot of men do this almost subconsciously. Were you raised in a sewer?

Another ten points here ...