Given the grim reality of our current world, the new fad which will soon sweep the planet is the Doomsday Party.

Of course, normally a party is a fun thing. People eat, drink, laugh, share experience, play footsies under the table, exchange meaningful glances, argue about religion and politics, tell jokes, swap phone numbers. Why should a Doomsday Party be any different? In fact, perhaps such a party will put real depth and intensity into what is often a pleasant though trivial affair.

The photograph shows such a party just about to get underway, one for five people. Now five is an odd number of people to have, isn’t it? Perhaps one person’s partner has left him or her, or died, or is in hospital readying herself for birth or is filling in a late tax return? Who would know? It’s none of my business.

Now, to me, the Asian fare on offer at this party is simple but mouthwatering though it might not appeal to some. Curiously, there are no wine glasses but they might be lined up at the bar. There are three mugs there and two tall glasses and what they might be intended for is unknown. And the rice, an essential part of this feast, will come later, surely. Perhaps I should’ve been a detective. Or a restaurant reviewer.

I guess one question which must be asked is what dress is appropriate for a Doomsday Party? Is it a thongs, stubbies and blue singlet affair or should people wear black suits? This is a difficult question to answer. I suppose it depends upon whether you’re a serious person or one who sees life as a bit of a joke anyway.

To lighten the mood, you could always suggest that people dress up like their favourite role models, you know, the Pope, George Bush, Tarzan, Skippy, Fred Flintstone, Hitler, Jesus, etc. Remember, if people did dress up, their placement at the table could be critical (if the latter two turn up, they should be seated on opposite sides of the table to avoid friction – Skippy and George Bush would fit together nicely).

Should certain topics of conversation be avoided at a Doomsday Party? Perhaps only sex and the weather should be allowed. No, not weather. That might lead to discussion about global warming or where the radio-active clouds might drift. Well, sex can be interesting as long as it doesn’t lead to buns in ovens and overpopulation!

I must away. I have my first DD party to plan. Friends, eat, drink and be merry while thee may!