To not want to have to answer millions of questions

[elderflowerlemonade]

I don't know if it is just me, but I am finding a woman I know (and unfortunately can't really avoid) difficult because she just endlessly asks me questions. I sometimes give short answers as a sort of 'I don't really want to talk about that' response but still they keep coming.

I've had -
'someone said you were a teacher, did you not like it?'
'are you not getting anything for your dad for Father's Day then?'
'how much rent do you pay there, then?'

My answers (I am looking after my baby, he's dead, we own it) I thought were short enough but they just prompted a load of other questions - some quite personal - which I don't feel comfortable answering.

Do you know anyone like this? How can you discourage them from feeling like you're being interviewed but staying polite?

[elderflowerlemonade]

It's hard to explain but it's the way she asks them. She has one of those annoying nasal voices, which doesn't help!

[Flakedorreadyrubbed]

My standard interview deflection would work:

"that's an interesting question, what makes you ask it?"

[momtothree]

I like the my x left me for a man, thanks for reminding me I had to give up my profession thanks for reminding me my dad died, thanks for reminding me ..., question answered - disapproval noted.

[elderflowerlemonade]

I think that would go over her head mom - she would just carry on asking questions. I did say 'my dad died' but then I had a load of other questions - when, how, did I miss him (!) did my mum miss him ...

[ilovesooty]

I think I'd just tell her you find her questioning really rude and intrusive.

Subtle isn't going to work.

[elderflowerlemonade]

I suppose - don't think she'd 'get it' though. I don't think she's very bright - not that I'm Einstein or anything, but you know!