Fun – Page 104 – I Don't Get It

New York’s Bowery 1935

from "This Fabulous Century" Time Life Books — from “This Fabulous Century” Time Life Books

A dollar could go a long way in 1935. A haircut, a shave, and goulash–only 50¢!

This straining adolescent is performing the Posin’ maneuver, as part of a new dance craze called The Big Apple. Nope, I’d never heard of it, either. But I bet Liz at The Vintage Inn has (she knows all about the Lindy and other swing dancing). In 1937, Time magazine attempted to describe it in words I can’t comprehend:

Repeal Of Prohibition December 1933

Set ’em up, Joe!

RepealProhib33002 — from “This Fabulous Century” Time Life Books

Christmas 1947

After A Long Day Of Shaving Heads…

Here’s another “I Don’t Get It” ad from 1941, suggesting a pint of the “dark ruby ale” as a remedy for fatigue. Yes, technically, Guinness is not black or even brown, but red. The man buzz-cutting these recruits looks tired now. Is now a good time for Guinness? Should he pause in the middle of shaving heads? And speaking of head…

Bartenders are not being fussy when they insist on the double-pour. Unlike other taps, Guinness is dispensed through a five-hole disk restrictor plate. It supplies an uncommon amount of nitrogen, making the head extra-effervescent. As such, two shifts are needed: one to start the magic, and a second to finish the job. The perfect pint is said to take 119.5 seconds to pour. But who’s counting? (www.foodrepublic.com)

And did you know that Africa accounts for about 40% of Guinness’ total worldwide sales? I don’t get that statistic either.

The full ad ends with the tag: Guinness Is Good For You. Many years ago, pregnant Irish women were told to drink a glass of Guinness every day to fortify themselves and their baby. More sound advice. Sounds like it’s time for a pint!