Elbows on the table

[Sundae]

Originally Posted by DanaC

I wasn't aware of that custom.

Really?
I've never seen it, but read about it lots. Bill Bryson mentions it for example...
I remember a friend coming round to dinner, leaning on one elbow and eating only with her fork. My Mum dismissed it as "that's what the Americans do" as if she'd sunk about as low as she could go We were only about 11, so table manners were a big thing, and the way you behaved in front of other people's parents was a sign of respect - in this case a perceived lack of.

I've always been allowed my elbows on the table when relaxing and talking before and after the meal. Unless Nan was there. Then she'd bore us with stories of her strict Grnadmother who would whack them across the kuckles with her metal topped cane or say, "Joints on the table will be carved, cooked or not" while brandishing a carving knife! We never had elbows on the table while eating though.

I suppose it shows a slovenly attitude with is disrespectful both to company and to the cook.