One thing that becomes immediately apparent from Adam’s post is that an unprepared foreigner should avoid talking politics with a Pole whenever possible, because the experience may turn out to be less than pleasant. But don’t worry, even if you get two Poles discussing politics, chances are the conversation may become very heated. How does the saying go? “Two Poles, three different opinions”? Yep, that’s us!

However, it’s only politics that should be avoided. The uninitiated and unprepared for what may transpire should also steer clear from a wide variety of topics, such as:

  • Religia (religion) – this is a tough one, because even if you are a devout Catholic and think you’re safe when discussing this subject with a Pole, you might be in for a big surprise. Poland is a Catholic country, but not everyone is a church-going zealot. In fact, my American friend dubbed Poles “cafeteria Catholics” who pick and choose which church teachings they want to follow.
  • Jan Paweł II (John Paul II) – even the most lax Polish Catholic worships the late pope.
  • Historia (history) – avoid, avoid, avoid. Otherwise you may be very surprised how the Polish view of history differs from… well, from just about everything you might have been taught in your history classes.
  • Druga Wojna Światowa (World War 2) – do yourself a favor and don’t go there. Change the topic to the weather or current price of lettuce (but that may lead you to politics, so be careful).

Now it’s your turn. From your experience, which topics should be avoided when talking to a Pole? And I mean, a stranger, someone you don’t know, because among friends it’s safe to discuss just about anything.