The Cast of Characters

Answer side by side

When the important call has to be made — good news, bad news, three-in-the-morning news — where do I sit in your order?

The question sits across the top; you each answer on your own page. Whoever writes second reads the first answer before writing — agree, argue, or correct the record.

Why this question

Be honest about the running order; partners and parents are allowed to outrank me.

And once you’ve both answered

The point isn't the ranking. It's that we both know we're on the list. Confirm it.

Answering it honestly

  • Whoever writes second reads the first answer before writing — properly, not a skim. Your page can agree, argue, or correct the record.
  • Be specific. Dates, places, what was playing, who else was there. Wrong details are welcome; they're evidence.
  • Don't negotiate a joint version. Two accounts that refuse to match are worth more than one polished one.

And the house rule, whatever the mode: leave a blank rather than write a lie. A blank can be filled later; a lie sits in the archive forever, and you both have to live with the paperwork.

More from The Cast of Characters

Who was once part of “us” that we've lost touch with?

What is your family's standing verdict on me?

Describe the wider gang — and where the two of us sit inside it.