Dating 101: Artsy weirdo

Why should you put superhuman effort into getting to know one of these complicated, quirky blokes? Because you hope that one day the lyrics of the hit song he’ll write will celebrate you; you’ll be the dedication on his definitive 21st-century novel; poems of such ferocious beauty will arrive on your doorstep that you may actually swoon. Look past the subculture cover; he may at present be chained to a heritage Chengal pasir tree, dress like a Goth or be hiding behind a silly haircut. He may spend too many insomnia-addled nights playing computer games. But he’s still struggling to find himself, nail down his exact passion – he has so many – and it’s this weird and wonderful cultural web that will mean (after you, oh Griselda-like patient maiden, have gained his trust) endless hours of rabidly engaging chats and wild, whirligig nights of terrifying intensity.

Where to find him:

He spends his reading time at the National Library (100 Victoria St; 6332 3255), where he has the creative space to compose his next piece – in his Moleskine journal, naturally – for the bi-monthly poetry slam sessions at The Writers Centre (#03-10 Telok Ayer Performing Arts Centre, 182 Cecil St). He receives regular newsletters from The Esplanade and will be attending the Mosaic concerts in March (www.mosaicmusicfestival.com). When he needs natural inspiration, he’ll link up with the Wild Singapore group (www.wildsingapore.com) to go hiking and trail walking. Occasionally, he’ll drop in at the Fringe Benefits Gallery (#01-01 Wessex Square, 5 Portsdown Rd) to check out the scene, in the hope he’ll stumble upon a soulmate.

Spot him:

He’s the guy with the quirky eyewear, slightly dishevelled appearance and a perennial five-o’clock shadow. He and his man-bag are never separated; inside, he’ll have the day’s papers and his journal, and on his feet will either be trendy sneakers or scuffed brown loafers that he’s sported since university days.

One-liners to use:

He’s an introvert, so go easy tigress. Take time to suss out exactly what sort of artsy type he is. If he displays a more private nature with leanings towards intellectual arts, a well-timed coo of ‘I don’t do Facebook’ would immediately paint you in a different light. If he’s more street-meets-edgy with a fascination for popular culture, draw him into a conversation with ‘Remember when TV ads were fun?’, he’ll most definitely take the bait, hook, line and sinker.

Show your affection:

Write him a haiku (www.toyomasu.com/haiku) and don’t be afraid of letting him know he inspired it. If you’re splurging, purchase a fine writing instrument from Elephant & Coral (#03-07 Wheelock Place, 501 Orchard Rd; 6736 1322) – he’ll be touched and chuffed that you support his artsy passions.

Under the covers:

When this sensitive soul desires for two to become one, he does it in the most intimate manner. Forget the doggy position; he’ll never be turned on this way. He’ll like to get you both in a kneeling position so you can look into his eyes as he whispers sweet (but sincere) nothings. If you really want to touch him, say that your union is serendipitous – but please say it only if you mean it.

Dating 101: HOT LABOURER | Dating 101: INTELLIGENT GEEZER