The Early Chapters

Answer side by side

What is one of the earliest running jokes or private languages we developed?

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

The stupid phrase, the look, the reference only we understand.

And once you’ve both answered

When did it start, and why has it survived?

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 Early Chapters

Pick the early story about us that has been most improved in the retelling — and write down what actually happened.

What was the first time you realised we were going to be proper friends?

What was the first real thing you trusted me with?