A set-piece of Jewish American social life.

Guest: Declaration of intention to depart.

Host: Vehement protest.

Guest: Counter-protests.

Host: Demand for concessions in return for permission to depart.

Guest: Counter-offer.

(Repeat as needed.)

Host: Introduction of (previously unbroached) topic of burning interest.

Guest: Full engagement in topic of burning interest.

Host: Interruption to offer and pack up leftovers for guest.

Guest: Getting up, and slowly moving toward the coat closet.

Guest: Introduction of second (previously unbroached) topic of burning interest.

Host: Running to retrieve book or other object related to conversation that guest must immediately borrow.

Guest: Putting on coat.

Host and Guest: Hugs and kisses all around.

Host: Introduction of third (previously unbroached) topic of burning interest.

Guest: Walking toward door.

Host: Opening door.

Guest: Introduction of fourth (previously unbroached) topic of burning interest.

(Repeat as needed)

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