Parlor Games

Parlor game –noun

any game usually played indoors, esp. in the living room or parlor, as a word game or a quiz, requiring little or no physical activity.

[Origin: 1890–95 ] Dictionary.com Unabridged (v 1.1) Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2006.

This is such an old fashioned term. It brings to mind flounced dresses over hoop frames, and someone playing at a pianoforte. OK, it is time to stop watching Jane Austen Period Pieces.

In this time of technology, video games, reality TV, and connections via Twitter, it was nice to have an evening talking with my friends.

One of our long distance connections was travelling in from New Zealand. In order to bring everyone together we decided to have a Werewolf party. If you have never played Werewolf (or mafia), you can find the info here.

But, to be honest, it wasn’t the game that was important. It was the joy of having friends in our home, talking, laughing, plotting lynchings, and socializing. In the midst of it all I was hit with the realization of how rare this is in my life. Many of our gatherings are too big for meaningful conversation. Others, the drinking portion of the evening becomes the priority, so acting out becomes more important to our guests. Not to say that these things are bad, but they can get in the way of really talking and finding where these people are on their various paths.

Werewolf makes this even easier as, once you have been lynched by the villagers or killed by a werewolf; you cannot participate in the game. So these folks often go to the next room and talk amongst themselves. This time we had the added fun of the kids joining the game. It surprised me that they wanted to play with the grown-ups, but these two pre-adolescent boys really seemed to get into the spirit of the role playing. Though we did have some hurt feelings, but those were easily assuaged with revenge in later rounds.

I know schedules are tight, and free time has become an expensive commodity, but I really would like to suggest that you host an evening like this, soon. Just tell your guests to bring a beverage and a snack, and let the party happen around you. The warmth generated in the room will soon spread to your heart.

Comments

[Caroline]

You are so right. I adore get togethers like this. For instance, last night, we gathered in my neighbors driveway b/c my baby monitor only worked up to that point. We were away from TV and such, with a bottle of wine and folding chairs, and a warm summer night. We didn't even plan it, it just happened. And it was so much better than watching the olympics, I swear.

Oh and whenever we can get out boardgames, cards, what have you, and turn on some music and just BE TOGETHER we will. Awhile back, my husband and I celebrated "earth night" with all the electricity off, on our back porch, grilling food and watching the stars. One of the best evenings together.

Free time, we have to make it and then do it some justice. Have a good weekend!