I was already deep into your post, thinking about how I, as a reader, connect with certain books and authors vs. others. Then I came across this:

"When the guest receives tea, he taps two fingers on the table, signaling not just thanks and respect, but also knowledge of tea etiquette. When the host swiftly grinds the teapot against its plate in a circular manner, the guest knows that he has outstayed his welcome—and the host need not say anything that might be seen as impolite."

Then you had me thinking about the social cues we have in everyday life that require no words yet speak volumes.

Excellent post! A thinker which has me looking at writing and social behavior in a new way. Cheers!