Generally speaking, waiting rooms are always filled with a lot of impatient people. However, a project carried out by The Observer suggests that people regard these spaces as a place of refuge (避难), a window in their tightly scheduled lives.
Ella Doroudy, Margate Station
We were at the beach for the day, and now are on our way home. We don’t have to wait very long, because we checked the timetable so we got here in time for the train. I just chat with my mates, really, and listen to music until the train comes. Waiting with other people is easier because you can kill time when you’re talking about stuff.
Caroline Lacey, Streatham Dental Center
I don’t really get nervous about seeing the dentist, but since these two fillings (补牙的材料) came out I’ve been in sharp pain. It’s very bright and airy here, so it’s quite calming. Usually I kill time by reading magazines. I’ve been coming to the dentist as and when I need to, but now it’s got to be regular.
Katie Hawkins, Model Casting
I was a bit late today, which I’m quite pleased about because some of these girls have been waiting ages. I can’t help but look at everyone else a bit — I look at the other girls and think: “I wonder if they’ll like her better than they like me.” While I’m waiting, I’m thinking: “Oh come on. I do have a life!”
Paul Thomas, Royal London Hospital
I feel pretty indifferent (满不在乎的) while I’m waiting here, to be honest. It’s something I’ve got very used to since my motorbike accident seven years ago. I’ve had about 32 operations so far. It’s no good rushing in thinking you’re going to escape in five minutes, so I just sit back and people-watch, really.
1.
What is Ella doing at Margate Station?A.Checking the timetable. | B.Catching the train to the beach. |
C.Meeting and picking her mates up. | D.Waiting for the train to return home. |
2.
How does Caroline feel after she enters the waiting room?A.Bored. | B.Excited. |
C.Relaxed. | D.Nervous. |
3.
What kind of feeling does Katie probably show when she is thinking “I do have a life!”?A.Impatience. | B.Satisfaction. |
C.Amazement. | D.Confidence. |
4.
Who enjoys looking at the people around him or her while waiting?A.Paul Thomas. | B.Ella Doroudy. |
C.Katie Hawkins. | D.Caroline Lacey. |