The charm of whimsy and the light-heartedness of wit found their way into various corners of the city’s recent happenings. From curious incidents to playful verbal sparring, here are some entertaining snippets that have added a touch of levity to the daily routine:
In the realm of unexpected closures, the recent St. Patrick’s Day brought an amusing incident to light. According to official reports, 133 out of 131 public houses in Galway closed for the occasion. One can only imagine the bewildered feelings of the lone publican who found himself in an unusual position that day. A whimsical verse captures the spirit of the situation:
“St. Patrick’s Day is the day for we,
‘Tis then I make things pay, sir;
And while one hundred thirty-three
Pubs close, I ope that day, sir.”
Meanwhile, the magistrates of the city seemingly hold similarities with lovers: they only truly capture attention when engaged in a quarrel. Recently, a solitary magistrate, Mr Hickson, expressed his isolation at a Petty Sessions, leading to an unusually populated bench on a subsequent occasion. Whether this increase in numbers is a desirable outcome is debatable, as the extra justices brought an unexpected level of excitement to the courtroom, creating an “extra row” not on the streets but within the judicial setting.
At the Board of Guardians meeting, the normally sombre atmosphere was occasionally enlivened by wit. Notable characters include Alderman Donnellan, who inadvertently delivered a comedic statement when he suggested that the best course of action for an incurable patient was to “find out the best means of curing him.” Meanwhile, the conscious humor of Mr Robert Nix shone brightly, evidenced by his playful suggestion that a fellow guardian come down from his elevated position, ensuring the humor didn’t fail to penetrate the “conservative atmosphere.”
Not to be outdone, an amusing anecdote unfolds involving a man embracing a lamp-post and showering it with affectionate declarations. The scene, though unusual, brings to mind the different ways people express their affections, even towards inanimate objects. The whimsy in this encounter speaks to the creative ways humans interact with their surroundings.
Lastly, a tale of relationship dynamics takes center stage, highlighting the unique ways couples express their grievances. The inventive approach of a wife, who punctured her husband’s bicycle tires out of frustration, led to his defence of desertion. His reasoning, that he could exist without a wife but not without his bicycle, brings a humorous twist to the challenges of married life.
In a world often fraught with serious concerns, these charming anecdotes and whimsical observations provide a reminder of the joy and lightheartedness that can be found in everyday situations.
Limerick Echo – Tuesday 27 March 1906
