Turtle Soup

why it bothers people when other restaurant patrons talk on the phone during their meals. In particular, I don’t get why they grumble, “No one wants to hear his/her phone conversation!” People socialize in restaurants. You’re doing it with the people at your table as you criticize the person on the phone. Can someone explain to me what the difference is between talking to people sitting at your table and talking on the phone while you’re dining alone? Should unaccompanied persons eat in silence on the off chance that accepting a call from their bosses or catching up with their mothers while waiting for their food will vex complete strangers?