Good Advice

Six year old girl to woman: "Tell her to listen to punk rock music. It will make her feel confident."






(Overheard by ER at a block party in Deering Center)

You Wouldn't Understand, It's an American Thing

Woman, gesturing at the crowd singing along with "Hamilton": "How do they know all the words?"

Singer: "Oh--well, they've been listening to the cast recording and singing along."

Woman: "But...I don't understand. What is it? I'm Canadian."






(Overheard at the Hamilton Singalong in Congress Square Park)

What Will They Think of Next?

Person #1: "What is this 'cold brew' that I keep hearing about?"

Person #2: "It's this new iced coffee that Starbucks invented."






(Overheard by AS on Congress Street near Starbucks)

Picnic Tables

Loud lady, to friend: "Salvage Barbecue--picnic tables? Really? I think it's one of those places that's designed to be uncomfortable so you'll leave. You know, if John and I aren't fighting--like all the time--we actually like to sit and chat. So we'll stick to Congress Bar and Grill."




(Overheard by MH at Thurston's Wicked Good Burgers)

Virtual Portland

Man, to lost-looking young woman: "Can I help you find anything?"

Woman, relieved: "Yes! Do you have any tips?"

Man: "Are you looking for a place to eat, or..?"

Woman: "No, I'm playing Pokémon Go."





(Overheard by MH on the Eastern Promenade Trail)