As part of Instituto Cervantes de Manila’s ongoing mission to promote Hispanic language and culture, the Intramuros branch will host Guadalupe Ruiz Fajardo on 9 December 2025 at 2:00 p.m. for a lecture titled “How Difficult It Is to Converse (and Why That’s Fascinating).”
A senior lecturer at Columbia University and expert in conversation analysis and the teaching of interactional competence, Ruiz Fajardo brings decades of research on the subtle dynamics of everyday talk and cross-cultural communication.
Her lecture will uncover the hidden layers behind what we often take for granted: human conversation. Using humorous and relatable examples—from the brief English hello to the extended Spanish farewell—she will guide the audience to appreciate the nuances of communication. Attendees will gain insight into how language signals consensus, manages interruptions, reflects culture, and creates surprising moments, showing that even the simplest exchanges carry depth shaped by the diversity of human interaction.
In the spirit of gatherings that highlight human communication, this event promises an afternoon of insight and reflection. Instituto Cervantes de Manila welcomes the public to join and see everyday conversation anew. Entrance is free. Seats can be reserved here: https://forms.office.com/e/3xMY8FgtkN
For more information, please visit the Instituto Cervantes de Manila website at https://manila.cervantes.es or follow them on Facebook