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Comment by cpach | Hacker News Reader

If you don’t want to talk to them, why not just say so? “I’m afraid I’m busy, I hope you understand” or “Excuse me, but I would prefer to mind my own business”. They might not love the response, but no sane person would continue the conversation after that.

Also, out of sheer curiosity, may I ask why you would dislike the interaction?

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It’s generally easier to carry the conversation to its natural conclusion — people tend to respond inordinately negatively to being bluntly told when others are not interested in a conversation.

As to your last question, the “why” is simple. I find small talk to be both pointless and exhausting. I prefer to be left alone, and for those with nothing to say to say nothing.

Interesting perspective. However, I’m not sure what it is that’s blunt about saying “no” in a polite manner. People have the right to attempt conversation, but you have no obligation to engage. Oh well, I guess you have a strategy already.

If you walk the footsteps of a stranger you will learn the things you never knew, you never knew. I certainly respect your attitude but a bit of interest in the unknown and bit of kindness can bring you a lot in life. But of course, you have the right to close yourself to unknown people. It is a thing of these times. Close yourself from others, open up to the toiletscroller, it's easier, more instant reward.

Your message merely says a great deal about you and your judgement of those of us who aren’t interested in making small talk with you.

You have no wisdom (great or small) to impart while using others to assuage your need for external social validation.

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