Geology Makes a Friend

Cast:

Geology—study of the Earth’s crust

Psychology—study of the mind

Cetology—study of whales and dolphins

Nihilism— the denial of all real existence or the possibility of an objective basis for truth

Theology-- study of religion and religious doctrine

Geology Makes a Friend

Every seat was taken. Geology carried his drink gingerly, looking for somewhere to sit, hating himself for coming to a fast-paced party in the first place. He was much more comfortable in small gatherings, or even at outside festivals, but crammed-in house parties made him claustrophobic and nervous. Psychology could always talk him into doing things he wasn’t interested in, though.

He went into an adjoining room to find more of the same: bodies crammed into small sofas, or sitting all over the floor. He spotted Nihilism arguing with Theology in a corner. Nihilism had seated himself and his hair gel on the floor in front of a primly disapproving Theology, trying hard to keep her legs covered although she was seated on a hard-backed chair in front of him. Geology felt a hand on his shoulder.

He turned, it was Psychology.

“Having fun?” she asked, eyes glittering, “Isn’t it interesting how Nihilism has gained the upper hand by taking the position of the lower person? Just fascinating, isn’t it? I’m sure Feminism would point out the use of the skirt by society to keep women weaker even when in the dominant position, but I guess she could spread ‘em and scare him off if she wanted to. He’s a weird one. Well, hang in there, relax!”

The torrent of talk over, Geology nodded, unexpectedly feeling a little better. He went into the next room, and spied his holy grail, an empty seat. Unfortunately, it was right next to Cetology, who smiled a nervous and self-effacing smile. Forgetting for the moment social hierarchy and his distaste of hearing someone drone on about something he didn’t care about, he sat down and expected the usual litany of whale-related information. Surprisingly, Cetology was silent under his mussy hair and outdated glasses. They stayed like this for a few more minutes. Geology couldn’t take it.

“Aren’t you going to tell me about the humpback, or how sad it is that there are no longer norwhales?” he asked.

“I’m just so glad someone is talking to me,” said Cetology meekly. Geology laughed.

“Want to take a walk around the grounds?” he asked, finally relaxing. Weights seemed to drop from Cetology’s shoulders, as well.

“Maybe we’ll find a Pilocene whale fossil.”

“Maybe.”

And they walked out, cups in hand, chatting amiably. Despite also chatting with a few avant-garde art movements, Psychology glanced at the two figures strolling across the lawn and smiled knowingly.