Meeting with Ideogeny

Cast:

Ideogeny—the study of the origins of ideas

Panspermatism-- belief in origin of life from extraterrestrial germs

Sensualism-- belief that ideas originate solely in sensation

Zoism-- doctrine that life originates from a single vital principle

Meeting With Ideogeny

No one thought meeting in a backwoods restaurant with Ideogeny was the best idea, but it was one they could all tolerate. Zoism and Panspermatism were the chief organizers, and they glared at each other fiercely from across the table. Sensualism just wanted to eat, and ordered everything he could from the menu. Ideogeny had yet to show up, leaving stilted conversation.

“At least it isn’t cold,” said Zoism. Panspermatism didn’t answer, instead watching Sensualism devour his salad.

“Did you just come along for the food?” she questioned.

“Why else?” Sensualism smirked, openly ogling a disgusted Panspermatism. Zoism grabbed her arm.

“She’s coming…”

Ideogeny indeed was entering the restaurant, her long, white hair tied up onto the top of her head with bright orange patterned fabric. Some of it, Zoism reflected, must be fake for her to have so much hair at her age. The older woman walked directly up to their table.

“I cannot tell you who is right,” she said, “only how you have come to think in the way you have. Is that what you want to know?”

Panspermatism was put out and disgusted. She slammed a hand on the table to push herself up, spilling all of their drinks, and left, muttering to herself about “the truth” and nonbelievers. Sensualism ran his hand across where his iced tea and hot chocolate had soaked his shirt. He smiled.

“I’m going to the jungle,” declared Zoism, turning to Ideogeny and motioning at Sensualism, “have fun with that.”

Ideogeny watched her leave. Then, she fetched a handful of napkins to clean off the seat next to Sensualism. He motioned the waitress over and ordered another iced tea and hot chocolate.

“So it was good, then?” asked Ideogeny. Seansualism, putting his elbows in the messy debris on the table, leaned forward.

“Yes, but I have not yet tried,” he licked a bit of whipped cream off his arm, “tasting them together.”

Ideogeny was pleased and impressed, “Neither have I.”

What began for both of them as a stressful morning then became a delightful, long afternoon lunch.