My 86 year old English student asked me to explain the meaning of 'next time.' As I started to explain, she interrupted me and asked
"Is it like a Carioca invitation?"
Me. "Carioca invitation?"
Her. "You know, let's meet up soon. I can't wait to see you! And life goes on, you buy bread, and you die."
This started an entire mini-discussion with this very interesting woman. She went on to explain how Cariocas truly are flakes and really do have a difficult time adding in new people to 'allowed in my home' list. She told me that people in Bahia and São Paulo will invite people over and then follow it up by saying "That is not a Carioca invitation! Please show up!"
And it is so true! I will never forget the first time a new acquaintance suggested we meet up for beers. She said she was going to call me. I was new in town and was so freaking excited! I ran home and told my husband.
The poor guy sighed and asked, "Did you get her phone number?"
No. There had been no exchange in numbers or information. Being the truly sheltered little American that I was, I asked him "Then how is she going to get a hold of me?!"
Daniel: "I'm afraid she's not going to."
BURN!
So I explained to my student that next time simply means the next time you get together. No promise and no lack of promise.
As for the Carioca invitation, I can say I am now fully adapted. I do the same thing to other people!
