This book is about how we present our selves in everyday talk and interaction. Selves and conversations are skilful accomplishments requiring trust, dependency, and co-ordination. They are produced by multiple partners co-operating in the production of social events. The self is a 'performed character' – a 'dramatic effect' in Goffman's terms – which results from shaping our behavior to create a desired impression. Talk is both the means and the product of such events. Selves live in worlds that...
