WATCHING a television quiz show recently, in the course of which one contestant’s responses displayed a remarkable level of ignorance, if not downright stupidity, I was reminded of the following exchange that took place during a radio show (I forget which station) competition a few years ago.
Host: ‘What was the name of the American trumpeter and jazz singer whose signature song was ‘It’s A Wonderful World?’
Caller : ‘Can you give me a clue?’
Host: ‘OK! What was Lord Mountbatten’s first name?’
Caller: ‘Erm, Louis?’
Host: ‘Correct! So?’
Caller: ‘Can I have another clue? ‘
Host: ‘What is the opposite of leg?’
Caller: ‘Arm?’
Host: ‘That’s right. So?’
Caller, after another pause: “Please can I have one more clue?’
Host : ‘OK. Last one, here we go. What is the opposite of weak?’
Caller: ‘Strong?’
Host: ‘Absolutely correct. So, now do you have the name?’
Caller, after another pause: ‘Got it! Frank Sinatra?’
Unsurprisingly this was followed by dead silence.
ROBERT READMAN
Norwich Avenue West, Bournemouth
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