Play something American! He releases a laugh that can only be conjured with his arms in the air. A baseline demonstration—Bom-bom, bom-bom! He is librarian by day, enthusiast by party.

The band plays "Oh, Susanna."

The principal orders more wine—The better kind, please.—and fills the inspector’s glass.

Blackout. No one blinks. Candles are lit. Circle dancing, of course. A circle fits between rows of tables, you know.

The lights blow out the candles. Only the happiest guests remain, singing and testing the integrity of the tables.

The better wine's run dry, but their glasses are full.

* The views expressed on this site do not represent the views of the Fulbright Program, the U.S. Department of State, or any of its partner organizations. They are the observations and reflections of someone who likes good stories.