As my mantra is “Words Matter,” I’m fascinated by the etymology of words, how different cultures use language, and when people misuse English. I’ve covered spelling bees, written about mondegreens and eggcorns, and advocated for the banishing of overused words.
So, it’s probably not surprising I’m fascinated with jokes that contain a play on words. Here’s one I heard recently:
A woman was holding a funeral for her husband when a man she didn’t recognize sat in the row directly behind her. Near the end of the service, the man leaned forward, gently tapped her on the shoulder, and asked the widow, “Would you mind if I said a word to everyone?”
She replied, “Please do.”
The man stood up, cleared his throat, and said “Plethora.” Afterwards, the man sat back down.
The widow smiled through her tears turned to him and said “Thank you. That means a lot.”
A minute or two later, the man leaned forward again and asked “Would you mind if I added another word?”
“No, go right ahead,” she encouraged.
The man stood up, said “Bargain,” and sat down.
The widow dabbed her eyes turned again and said “That means a great deal.”
A moment later, another man approached the widow and asked “May I also say two words?”
Surprised, the widow nodded yes. The second man nervously approach the microphone and tentatively said “Water pit.”
After he sat back down, the widow walked over to him, smiled kindly, and whispered “Thank you for the words. I know you meant well.”
Words matter. Even when you’re telling a joke.
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