Where are you from?

Conversational habits

Sir, – I feel that Kathryn Phelan is being slightly precious when bridling at being asked where she is from (“I’m tired of being asked where I am from”, Opinion & Analysis, August 20). I have been in quite a few countries in the world and upon hearing my accent have been asked the same question. Once in a southern state of the US when replying “Ireland”, I was asked if I had driven there! Being asked where you are from is akin to being greeted with a comment about the day’s weather. Next weekend in Cork I shall be delighted to reply with “Armagh”. – Yours, etc,

ENDA CULLEN,

Armagh.

Sir, – Regarding long-standing Irish conversational habits and conventions, perhaps Kathryn Phelan could adapt rather than expecting others to do so.– Yours, etc,

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CORMAC Ó DÁLAIGH,

Dublin 3.