Genealogy /
What are common Polish character traits? [425]
I think the main one is defensiveness. Their ears prick up when you mention Poland and then they just can't wait to hear what you have to say. It's almost like you are there to confirm their understanding of their country and their beliefs. If not, expect a sharp riposte! There isn't much of 'yeah, you are right and I see where you are coming from' if you say sth slightly negative.
One of my dear friends called Seweryn, himself a Pole, told me that if you assign a student a role which is at odds with their way of thinking, they won't bend their minds to step into that role. Rather, they will refuse and insist on you giving them one that suits them. I have found that he is spot on. VERY few in Poland have the potential to be like Johnnie Cochrane, O.J Simpson's defence lawyer. He surely couldn't have believed in the innocence of his client but he made out a sterling case and got him off the hook. Poles can't step into a role so freely given their alacrity in taking a position and holding onto it for dear life.
