With fingers firmly on keyboard and tongue firmly in cheek, the writer attempts to write - and rewrite - himself. There is a certain irony in this: he is so used to expressing himself in narratives, yet this narrative is the hardest he has ever had to write.

Like any first draft, the story has potential. But hindsight is 20/20, and likewise, so are second drafts, third drafts, a fourth. One can only revise a tale so many times before fact becomes intertwined with fiction, and the story takes on a life of its own.

It would be nice, though, if the story turned out something like this: the protagonist meets his soulmate, falls in love with her and lives happily ever after.

Some would argue that this makes for a very predictable story. After a while, though, one learns to appreciate plots that have the least amount of complications - and the most amount of closure.

Hello! Thought I would try something different in my introduction this time, so here goes:

What do you look like? I'm happy to swop pix on Telegram/Instagram. I've decided not to share my photos online for privacy reasons.

How would you describe yourself? If you're a fan of MBTI tests, I'm an ENFJ. Generally, I'm fairly open-minded and adventurous and I'll try anything once. Almost anything... My friends and colleagues describe me as calm and patient, though I have occasional moments of spontaneity too.

What do you like doing? I'm very much into the arts and I like reading, writing, films and theatre. I enjoy visits to museums or art galleries too.

I like the outdoors as well; thanks to Covid (never thought I'd say this!), I've started appreciating walking/hiking/being a tourist in my own backyard.

What are you looking for in a partner? I’m looking for someone to go out with or come home to; someone to grow old with as we build a life together.

Traits I find attractive are the same ones I have: Kindness, humour, intelligence, emotional stability and a growth mindset. If you have a similar affinity for films, books and the arts, that'd be great and I'm happy to share in your interests and learn from you too.

Are you for real? Yes. LOL! We can video call or chat on the phone so we both feel comfortable before meeting up.

What’s important is the quality of  conversations and whether they spark joy, fascination and wonder.

Drop me a line if this resonates with you and if you’re at the stage of meeting a lifelong lover and friend too! I'm interested to know about the best day you ever had, what you’d do if you had $1m, or your favourite joke.