The Male Gaze

A few days back I remarked to one of my colleagues that I have what is called 'the male gaze'. I tend to notice the women the men are bound to notice!

Today, I was at a Subway outlet. While I was customizing my sub, an elderly gentleman walked in. He had the distinct look of an old womanizer - salt-n-pepper hair, a breezy T-shirt(that too on a Monday!) and a been-there-done-that attitude. I scarcely looked his way. Concentrated on my sub. Paid the bill and settled down in my favourite spot near the window. At this point in time, I heard the song 'Hum Tum' from the movie of the same name on the TV. I decided that I wanted to see the picturisation. So, I changed to the opposite seat. The old fogey took the seat in front of me with his back facing me.

There was one nice song after another on the TV. I had a fairly good time while I munched my sandwich. When I was nearly done, oldie got up and made towards the door. He sneaked a look at me - only to find me looking squarely into his eye. I can't express the momentary triumph that I felt. It was like - gotcha!  beat you at your own game :)

Then walked in a guy who bargained around - was dissatisfied and left the shop. I made it a point not to look at him just to spare him the embarrasment.

Finally, walked in a guy with a thin well-maintained moustache. The guys at the shop addressed him as 'Sir'. I deduced he was a regular. This man was not completely unfortunate looking. The TV probably was playing some advertisements at this point of time. So, I turned my glance and my full concentration on him. This made the guy distinctly uncomfortable. I could literally see him squirming under his supposed composure. Completely satisfied, I dropped the trash, slung the spare sub in the carry-bag and breezed out of the shop.

And then I realized how much I have evolved.
Who is this new me? I hardly recognize her. But I know one thing for a fact - I like her!!