In the latest NY Times Blind Date for over-60s, celebrated novelist Deborah Moggach, 75, sat down with Mike, 76, a private tutor with a background in mathematics and physics. Their meeting was a study in easy conversation, mutual respect, and the gentle reality of dating later in life.
Deborah on Mike
Dressed comfortably yet stylishly in a long red cardigan over a patterned navy dress paired with a bright blue polo neck, Deborah arrived with an open mind and a simple hope: “A possibility – the most alluring word I know.”
Her first impression? Mike greeted her with a firm handshake and had thoughtfully secured them the best table by the window, setting a pleasant tone for the afternoon.
Their conversation flowed naturally, covering a range of topics that included their fathers’ wartime service, political leanings towards the Labour Party, family stories, and shared passions like biking and sea swimming—though Deborah suspected Mike was more the Lycra-sporty type. They also dived into tech talk, where Mike’s expertise as a mathematician and physicist shone, contrasting Deborah’s confessed technophobia. Throughout, Mike asked plenty about Deborah, demonstrating a genuine curiosity that she found both unusual and welcome.
Remarkably, there was no awkward moment to speak of; both were candid about their past attempts at internet dating, which added a layer of camaraderie. Their good table manners were evident—they shared plates, admired their food enough to take photos (both having foodie children), and enjoyed the meal thoroughly.
What stood out most about Mike? Deborah found him likable and easy to talk to. However, a key deal-breaker emerged: Mike’s dislike of dogs clashed with Deborah’s love for them—and her cheeky admission of letting dogs sleep in her bed.
Would she introduce Mike to friends? Yes, but only if they didn’t own dogs.
In Deborah’s Words:
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Three words to describe Mike: Well-mannered, chatty, curious.
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What Mike thought of her? “God knows.”
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Did they go on somewhere? No, the spark wasn’t quite there. But phone numbers were exchanged with grace.
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Was there a kiss? Polite pecks on the cheeks.
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What would she change about the date? Nothing; it was just fine.
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Rating: 8 out of 10.
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Would she meet again? Probably not.
Mike on Deborah
Mike arrived smartly dressed in a pale pink shirt and dark trousers. He hoped for “nothing beyond a couple of hours of intelligent and amusing conversation,” and Deborah delivered on both.
His first impression of Deborah was of an attractive, lively, and engaging woman. Their discussion wandered comfortably through Deborah’s illustrious writing career, Mike’s own work, politics, relationships, and shared interests—including the ever-important topic of dogs.
Mike recalled no awkward moments, finding their exchange relaxed and friendly. Their impeccable table manners continued throughout; amusingly, neither touched alcohol, though this didn’t dampen their connection.
What Mike appreciated most about Deborah was her down-to-earth nature. Despite her literary acclaim, she never made him feel ordinary or condescended to—it was “a conversation between equals,” he said.
Would Mike introduce Deborah to his friends? Absolutely, especially to his literary circle, where she’d fit right in.
In Mike’s Words:
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Three words to describe Deborah: Listener, informed, intelligent.
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What Deborah made of him? She seemed genuinely interested in his life and career.
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Did they go on somewhere? No; Deborah had other commitments.
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Was there a kiss? Goodbye pecks on the cheeks.
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What would he change about the date? More time to get to know Deborah better.
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Rating: 9 out of 10.
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Would he meet again? Yes.
Final Thoughts
For Deborah and Mike, the date may not have sparked romance, but it offered a warm connection marked by respect, wit, and genuine interest—a reminder that at any age, meeting someone new can be a rewarding experience. Sometimes, it’s the meeting of equals, not the fireworks, that makes a date worthwhile.
