It’s not scientific, not digital – much less based on analysis of billions of data points. It’s as analogue as the pineapple in your shopping cart! But its proponents claim it’s The New Dating Game. At least, in Spain. And it’s gone viral on social media…
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Sounds like fun. And there’s no way you can get the ‘signals’ wrong. There’s only one important signal, and singles everywhere are quickly becoming aware of it…
Déjà vu all over again
If you’re old enough to remember the premiere episode of Star Trek: The Next Generation (TNG), you will chuckle with recognition as you read about the new dating trend we’re looking at today.
A subplot focuses on Captain Picard’s desire for a totally-relaxing interlude on the leisure planet Risa. He’s never been before, but his new executive officer, Riker, has. And the helpful subordinate recommends his boss pick up a souvenir of his vacation – a small, harmless-looking wooden statu-ette called a Horga’hn. No problem.
But it turns out the statuette is really a Risan fertility symbol. And, when displayed openly by a visitor, means they’re ‘seeking Jamaharon’ – open to intimate encounters. So much for the ‘relaxing interlude’…
Nothing so exotic for the lonely at Mercadona supermarkets across Spain. But just as explicit. If you’re looking for ‘companionship’, stand a pineapple upside down in your shopping cart. It could start more than just a conversation!
How it works
It’s like the spy trade craft protocol of sign/countersign: If you see someone you like who also has an upside-down pineapple in their cart – crash (gently) into them!
There’s an option if you’re only looking for a one-night stand. In that case, pick up a head of lettuce, too. “Because it goes bad quickly,” as Instagram user Ana G. (@_anagildersleeve) explains the symbolism.
If you’re in search of a long term relationship, add lentils to your pineapple instead, “because lentils last forever in your pantry.”
Note: This mating game is only ‘live’ between 7 and 8 pm, and only at Mercadona.
Where did it come from?
Like many social media constructs, nobody can agree where this dating game originated. But it obvi-ously has appeal. I think, first and foremost, that’s because it is, in itself, totally harmless. There’s no danger of anyone getting hurt – in any way – until both parties agree to… leave the store together. Then, they’re on their own.
And everyone involved – or about to be ‘involved’ – is clear on the concept.
My take
This is a clear throwback, all the way back to the Middle Ages, when a lady dropped her handkerchief in front of a gentleman to indicate her interest and favour. The proper response for the gent was to pick it up and return it. And in so doing, opening the opportunity or a conversation that had – in a way – already started.
Like the pineapple schtick, the intent was unmistakable. And, even if others witnessed the exchange, the whole process remained exclusively between the two people involved. No social discomfort or disruption.
My questions for you:
Does the Pineapple Method of ‘dating discovery’ appeal to you? (I think it’s deliciously cute – and just as subtly sexy, in its way, as the handkerchief thing was it its day!)
If it was happening, say, at Loblaw’s, or Aldi – and you were ‘in the market’ (pun intended)… Would you try it?
Muse on that…
~ Maggie J.