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