Tea-table Talk by Jerome K. Jerome is a delightful and charming collection of essays that captures the essence of leisurely conversations over tea. With witty observations and humorous anecdotes, Jerome takes readers on a journey through various topics ranging from life's little pleasures to the absurdities of everyday existence.

The author's conversational writing style makes the book feel as though you are sitting at a cozy tea table, engaging in banter with Jerome himself. His keen observations on human behavior and societal norms are both insightful and entertaining, making each essay a joy to read.

While some of the topics may feel slightly dated due to the book's original publication date, many of the themes and observations remain relevant today. Tea-table Talk is a timeless read that offers a refreshing perspective on the human experience.

Overall, Tea-table Talk is a charming and entertaining collection of essays that will appeal to readers looking for a light-hearted and humorous read. Jerome's wit and charm shine through in each essay, making this book a delightful addition to any bookshelf.

Book Description:

As the New York Times said in 1903, this lesser-known work by Jerome K. Jerome does not display “the wit of Congreve or even the glittering sort Mr. Jerome employs in some of his other books.”

It takes the form of imaginary conversations between the writer and a number of un-named characters at the afternoon tea table. The Woman of the World, the Old Maid, the Girton Girl, the Philosopher and the Minor Poet wax lyrical on subjects like marriage, art, society and politics. Frequently they appear to prefer the sound of their own voice to that of others.

Although I couldn’t agree with the NY Times that it is the Baedeker guide to conversation, it is certainly an eye-opening glimpse into this now almost extinct art. The participants are already bemoaning the lack of invigorating conversation in society: “Conversation has become a chorus; or, as a writer wittily expressed it, the pursuit of the obvious to no conclusion.”