Word Play

By Mark W. Danielson

Intuit (pronounced in-too-it) is a company that provides accounting software and other services for small businesses. They chose that name because it implies quality customer service, and in spite of some controversy and criticism, they appear to be doing well. That’s good, considering how our economy is struggling.

Intuit, the word, can also be short for intuition. One definition says intuition is the act where the mind perceives the agreement or disagreement of two ideas. A more common definition is it means understanding without apparent effort. But Intuition is also the name of a professional learning services company that focuses on financial markets, government, and life services. Companies love using word play like this because we notice it.

Along these lines comes the infamous “round tuit”. (pronounced ’round too-it) These little jewels are found in living rooms, kitchens, offices, bedrooms—pretty much wherever people hang out. Ever notice how people give you round tuits when you ask them to do something? Sooner or later, everyone gets a round tuit.

I was awarded some round tuits while in the Navy, and could trade them in whenever I found the time. Round tuits were handy when someone higher ranking than you asked why something wasn’t accomplished. Lacking any better explanation, you could could always say you never got a round tuit. Granted, this usually led to some remedial training, but at least you had the pleasure of collecting the round tuits from your subordinates. You see, a round tuit never expires, but I’m quite sure not everyone honors them.

Although everything I’ve said applies to daily life, it is especially true for writers. After researching their topics, authors must use their intuition to lead their characters into mayhem and back. Experience has proven that it’s easier to create chaos than to restore order and create an ending with its characters intact. Of course, sometimes characters must die. Just ask Leonardo Dicaprio about that. As best I recall, The Aviator was his last movie where his character survived. Apparently, his roles are to die for.

Some of the best word play is found in skits. Everyone over forty surely remembers Abbot and Costello’s Who’s on First skit. Saturday Night Live followed suit with numerous word play skits involving world leaders where their names are substituted for dialogue. It’s fun to involve word play, but not all audiences appreciate it.

The key to successful writing is making sure your content is suitable for wide audiences. Unless they are cute gift books, stories full of word play may not get published. So, authors, remember that if you’re struggling with words and you’re not that intuit, or you can’t seem to get a round tuit, then listen to your intuition and take a break from it.

’Nuff said.

British Humour

Mark W. Danielson

I thought I’d end the year with a chat about British humour. (That’s how they spell it.) I love how they laugh at themselves. Hugh Grant has made a career reflecting bungling, polite characters. Their humour is sophisticated, satirical, raunchy, and silly as they poke fun at their royalty, the absurd, their class system, and the constant battles between parents and their children. Their parodies, skits, stand-up routines, theater productions, television, and big screen movies are full of silliness. TV Shows like Benny Hill, Monty Python, and Mr. Bean, found international audiences because of their universal appeal. There is nothing mean about it.

A recent web video features the Hampshire Fire Department’s “Red Sparrows”, which is a spoof on the British Air Force Red Arrows flight demonstration team. This brilliant production features a squadron of World War I bi-planes piloted by firefighters. Their marvelous aerial stunts precede several “dogfights” against German fighters. Smoke, flames, and gunfire make this compelling piece a must-see. Who else but the British could come up with such cleverly performed antics? Check it out at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f_lXqMmevog

I’m not sure why American comedians must get their laughs at the expense of others. Lyne and I went to a Comedy Club a while ago and people started walking out because of the entertainer’s foul and hurtful language. If the HBO comedians were broadcast on network television, every other word would be bleeped out. If you want an idea about where we’ve gone wrong as a society, check out Mean Girls. Thankfully, we still have witty programs like The Daily Show which find humor in current events.

Perhaps the Brits’ ability to laugh at one’s self is a by-product their politeness. Take, for example, Kelly Osborne’s recent performance in television’s reality show, Dancing with the Stars. One might think that the daughter of a rock star would be totally warped, but instead, she swept the judges and audience off their feet with her ever-present smile, dedication, grace, and politeness. True, she occasionally let her guard down and spouted some four letter words, but they were always self-directed, not at others on the show.

Ride in a British cab and you’ll find a polite driver with a witty sense of humor. Do the same with a New York cabbie and your heart will be racing five minutes into your journey as they cuss and gesture while weaving through traffic. We can probably learn a few things from our friends across the pond.

What’s most interesting about British humour is its level of sophistication. Much of it involves current events so if you’re not tuned in, you won’t “get it”. It is also fast-paced, so pay attention.

Humor is found around the world, though. Japanese television airs hysterical slapstick game shows, Indian Bollywood movies are hilarious, South American game shows are raunchy, but funny, and let’s not forget the Canadian actors who have added so much to Saturday Night Live and other shows. Since most people ring in the New Year laughing, why not do the same for the other 364 days? Happy New Year everyone!