Specifically About Things

(I’m a reporter at a newspaper. The following conversation happens between me and another reporter within minutes of me getting to the office. Note: As reporters, it’s essential we know how to ask questions to get information we want and need. Seems pretty obvious, right?)

Coworker: “Have you spoken to [Our Editor]?”

Me: “Today? Yesterday? When?”

Coworker: “Whenever.”

Me: “About?”

Coworker: “Anything.”

(Pause.)

Me: “Yes, I have spoken to [Our Editor] at various points in the past about things.”

Coworker: “That’s not helpful.”