I’d like to add one more answer to the “How are you?” question (Letters, 26 December). A very elderly neighbour, who died several years ago, always gave what became known as the Elton John response: “I’m still standing!” I use it myself now and remember him each time I do.
David Duell
Durham
• What a lot of misery guts writing to your letters page. Following a spell in intensive care this October with an infection that I’m starting to see was much more dangerous than I realised at the time, my answer to “How are you?” is “Better every day.” And – many thanks to the NHS – long may it stay that way.
Charles Harris
London
• My father used to answer: “Here’s to you / As good as you are / And here’s to me / As bad as I am / But as bad as I am / And as good as you are / I’m as good as you are / Bad as I am.”
Ian Winstanley
Ashton-in-Makerfield, Greater Manchester
• These days, many people eschew the traditional “How are you?” in favour “All right?” I’m never really sure how to answer this question. What to say if I’m “all wrong”?
Barbara Riddell
Epsom, Surrey
• In this part of the north-east of England, the more likely greeting is “Y’OK?” or “Y’all reet?” – seemingly a more profound inquiry into the human condition. But by the time you nod and smile, they have moved on with a cheery “See you later” – a time frame which apparently includes everything from shortly to probably never.
Peter Lowe
Newcastle upon Tyne
• “How are you?” isn’t such a brief question. In Lancashire it’s just “’Ow do?”
Carol Haines
Yealmpton, Plymouth
• My grandmother, when someone asked how she was, would say: “I’m walking around to save funeral expenses.” At 83 years of age, I’m tempted to say the same now and again.
Lesley Millard
Bishop’s Waltham, Hampshire
• A friend replies to “How are you?’ with “Still warm to the touch.”
Rt Rev John Saxbee
Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire
• I invariably reply “ish” and people always know what I mean.
Maureen Cavanagh
Kingsley, Cheshire
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