Harry on Ivan





What were you hoping for?

Good conversation and someone who knows what they want in life.

First impressions?

I thought he may be slightly geeky, which is perfect for me.

What did you talk about?

We put the world to rights, from the transphobic, rightwing press to how fickle our generation is on social media. And my magazine and his novel.

Any awkward moments?

I guess when he ordered six desserts. But I’m very glad he did, because I ate almost all of them.

Good table manners?

Yeah, he didn’t stop for air while he was talking, so the meal took three hours to eat.

Best thing about Ivan?

He is driven and wants to help change society for the better.

Would you introduce him to your friends?

I’m sure they’d all get on.

Describe him in three words

Passionate, driven, complex.

What do you think he made of you?

He may have liked me, but I don’t want to say point blank yes in case he gives me 2/10.

Did you go on somewhere?

We got the same tube home.

And... did you kiss?

I try not to after six desserts.

If you could change one thing about the evening, what would it be?

I’d have liked another drink because we weren’t done putting the world to rights.

Marks out of 10?

7.

Would you meet again?

Yes, we’d be good friends.

Ivan on Harry





What were you hoping for?

Not much, because you never know how blind dates will go.

First impressions?

He seemed like a nice guy.

What did you talk about?

Writing, the media, the LGBTQ community, among many other things.

Any awkward moments?

No.

Good table manners?

Yes.

Best thing about Harry?

He’s easy to talk to.

Would you introduce him to your friends?

Maybe.

Describe him in three words

Friendly. Chill. Shy.

What do you think he made of you?

Maybe that I’m nice and interesting.

Did you go on somewhere?

We took a walk to the tube together.

And... did you kiss?

No.

If you could change one thing about the evening, what would it be?

I’m not sure.

Marks out of 10?

7.

Would you meet again?

Maybe.

• Harry and Ivan ate at Flavour Bastard, London W1.

Fancy a blind date? Email blind.date@theguardian.com.

If you’re looking to meet someone like-minded, visit soulmates.theguardian.com