My theory: Just as the Wheelers' neighbors upon hearing of the Paris trip, Mrs. Givings "droning on" was a sort of self-justification for wanting that life in the suburbs. She appeared to like them when she spent time with them, but then decided they were just strange - a very common psychological defense mechanism to make your reality seem like it's matching your wants and dreams.
And having lived an entire adult life in this "reality", Mr. Givings simply does what one must do to be able to cope with it. Instead of talking himself into a fake truth, he simply choose not to listen at all.
I imagine, if the Wheelers would not have had that terrible accident, they too would learn how to play suburban charades eventually, beginning at that awkwardly forgiving breakfast scene.
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