A GUIDE TO PROPER SOCIAL ETIQUETTE

[Ankan 2875]

〚 ۞┇  ═════════════ - ‹ •◦ ☼ ◦• › - ═════════════ ┇۞ 〛

To walk the marbled streets of the Motherland is to be ever in the company of elegance and intellect. Though even in our Blessed Bastion, one may from time to time encounter the minor tragedies of poor posture, untamed speech, or the anarchy of an unhemmed robe. These are (sadly) not crimes, but they are preventable embarrassments.

The work herein, first penned by the great Malaurir Lucian Sullas is no common list of rules. Consider it a reminder; offering reflection, self-improvement, and the encouragement to comport oneself with the dignity our blood and Motherland demand. Physical copies will be sent to the residences of the mali'thill whom have been deemed lacking in this regard.

maehr’sae hiylun’ehya

Octavius Visaj-Taharion’onn

A Guide to Proper Social Etiquette

by L. Sullas

I have been asked on a number of occasions upon the "proper" way of acting when in the presence of fellow citizens. Not that I wish to presume my compatriots have terribly poor manners (though many could perhaps use some advice) I shall regardless outline the proper etiquette taught to me by my family. Should the citizenry be interested in such things, then do please read on.

I shall not offer explanation for "why" to do such. Merely that I find it pleasant, as should anyone.

 

One's Attire

A Mali'aheral's outfit should be clean, devoid of creases, and be of a fine quality. Avoid garish, bright colours that would attract pointless attention. Be a beacon through your words and mind, rather than the hue of your under-shirt.

Always wear an outfit that is tasteful to the eye. Though there are outfits with smaller amounts of material that compliment its wearer's natural perfection, showing unnecessary skin speaks poorly of your character, and may mark you as one of ill-repute.

When wearing a long-coat, always be sure to position the bottom hems carefully when sitting down upon a chair, a stool, or the ground. The material can become easily crushed, and create dreadful creases.

When dressed in full robes, be sure to sit straight on your chair. The cloth located upon one's sternum is highly likely to crush when leaning forward, so take special care to smooth the material whilst sitting for long periods.

 

One's Posture

Never slouch under any circumstance in public. Slouching implies weariness, and looking weary around others may give them the impression that you find their presence tiring. Should I have to explain why such a thing tends to reflect poorly on your reputation, I feel you should simply close this book now.

 

One's Voice

Always speak clearly with precise annunciation. A fiercely exaggerated "r" does nothing to endear yourself to you compatriots.

There is nothing more dismal than a Mali'aheral who mumbles. Worse still, one who speaks with awful colloquialisms (Example, "Aye," "Nay," "Milord," "Milady,") is similar to that of a dove braying like a donkey.

Refrain from filthy languages as often as possible. The Uruk tongue, though it may have its uses in communication with those beasts, should be avoided during social gatherings. So too, should any foul words native to the common tongue (I shall not write them here, as it is a public book, after all). Speaking as a brute is but the first step to being a brute.

 

One's Habits

Do not pick at your features when in the presence of your fellows. An itch upon ones ear may be scratched, certainly, but an irritation in the nose must wait until privacy may be found.

Always cough or sneeze into a handkerchief, or if one is not available, away from the table/direction of your colleagues. Illness spreads in the air, as well as the body, and others may avoid you should you not have a way of keeping your expulsions contained. Should you feel the need for flatulence, excuse yourself from the vicinity.

Never smoke or chew tobacco; it dirties the lungs, fouls the air, and stains the robes. Those who do such are naturally filthy, and their stench is deplorable. Be mindful of your fellow citizens, and respect their nostrils.

One should always carry a handkerchief, or at least a clean length of cloth, to wipe away any grime that should get upon your clothes. Better yet, carry a second to offer a compatriot who is otherwise handkerchief-impaired.

 

One's Courtesy

Should a citizen be walking towards a gate behind you, be sure to open it for them if they intend to go forth themselves. The same idea extends to that of doorways, however, one should offer entrance to the one behind first.

Should you observe fellow residents caught in the rain, it is polite to offer them sanctuary from the elements until they pass over. You yourself would not wish to be sodden, and thus extending that courtesy is polite.

When you have a guest within your home, be sure to first offer them a refreshment of some sort. If none is to be had, then offer food. If there is a lack of both, be sure to apologise for your poor housekeeping.

Always ask permission to sit at another's table. As a guest in a home, you should never presume that you have any right to be seated in the presence of another. Furthermore, always request permission to leave, once conversation or purpose has been exhausted. Should you be seated at a public table, then consider the ones seated at it before you the "owners" of the space and the rules may be applied appropriately.

 

One's Pleasantries

When greeting a fellow citizen, a simple "karin'ayla" is sufficiently polite for strangers. However, those closer to you, or those worthy of praise, should be entitled to more elaborate forms of greetings. A short bow towards a respectable fellow is reasonable enough, as well as a quick arm gesture (example, touching one's chest) would be sufficient still.

Combining all three is polite in all situations without any chance of insult.

When retiring from conversation, a simple "van'ayla" combined with the bow and gesture is excellent indeed.

Addressing your fellow citizens by name is tasteful, and it is always best to seek out their name at the beginning of every conversation. Should you not recall another's name, inquire of it quickly to avoid further embarrassment.

The statement "maehr'sae hiylun'ehya" is in itself a blessing, and may be used as both a delightful "hello," or "goodbye." However, to not return this blessing upon receiving it is extremely rude. How could you not return such a sentiment? Are you truly so devoid of eloquence that you dare not embarrass others with your foul pronunciation? It is truly outrageous.

Know these words, and use their advice. The people of this city will be far better for it.

 

maehr’sae hiylun’ehya