Birgit on Solomon What were you hoping for? A fun evening with someone interesting. I chose to not think about it too much beforehand and to just let things happen. First impressions? He came in carrying a novel, which was a great start for me. What did you talk about? What didn’t we talk about? We kept forgetting to order. The importance of compassion and empathy. Our careers and families. Car crashes on American road trips. Aliens. The northern lights. Our mutual love of dancing to anything with a beat. Wading across rivers on the top of mountains. What makes time stop for each of us. Most awkward moment? I felt a flustered at times (in a good way). Good table manners? Absolutely, and the food, service and restaurant were all great. Best thing about Solomon? How warmly he talked about his children. He’s a great storyteller but also asks good questions. That’s actually three things, but they’re all important. Would you introduce Solomon to your friends? Sure. He’d like them and they’d like him. Describe Solomon in three words Interesting, kind, fun. What do you think he made of you? Scandinavian socialist do-gooder. Did you go on somewhere? He walked me to the train station, which was a nice way to keep talking. And … did you kiss? We hugged goodbye. If you could change one thing about the evening what would it be? This was a great experience from start to finish. I wouldn’t change a thing. Marks out of 10? 9. I laughed all night and really enjoyed meeting him. Would you meet again? There’s a geographical distance between us, but I’d be up for meeting again. Solomon on Birgit What were you hoping for? Awesomeness. First impressions? Warm open smile and a hug. The Guardian has helped me land on my feet here. What did you talk about? All the important stuff, which included the not so important stuff. Most awkward moment? None. Though being able to walk out of a restaurant without paying the bill was odd-nice. We might do that again. Good table manners? I wouldn’t be able to recognise them, good or bad. Best thing about Birgit? It was easy to be me around her. Would you introduce Birgit to your friends? That would be up to Birgit and my friends. Describe Birgit in three words Insightful, generous, accomplished. What do you think Birgit made of you? That I have an extensive knowledge of Scandinavian mythology. Conversation flowed easily. Either I ticked the important boxes or she was a considerate companion. Or both! Did you go on somewhere? We walked to the station to catch the last train. And … did you kiss? Nope. If you could change one thing about the evening what would it be? Nothing. Marks out of 10? 10, because why not? Would you meet again? There was a connection which I’m always grateful for. I’ll let you know …