Parade

– And did you not celebrate St Patrick's Day yesterday?
– Well, I thought about it, briefly. But I didn't quite feel up to it.
– Why ever not?
– It seemed somehow a little out of place to deck myself out in green and parade up and down the high street. Had there been a large crowd of Irish men and women on hand it might have been quite enjoyable. But on my own, I would have felt quite self-conscious.
– I'm sure casual bystanders would have joined in, once they realised what you were up to.
– I don't know: bystanders can be pretty aloof at times. Especially when they suspect you're slightly unhinged.
– You should take more pride in celebrating your heritage.
– I'm not Irish.
– Well, not anatomically, perhaps, but culturally? Surely you have thrilled to the words of Yeats and Joyce and – and the rest?
– Of course, at least occasionally, but I'm not sure that qualifies me. Anyway, I don't have anything to wear in green. Apart from socks.
– That would have been enough. As long as you made sure they were clearly visible.