How Much Is That Doggie in the Window?

How Much Is That Doggie in the Window?

Patti Page recorded the song, “How much is that doggie in the window?” in 1952. Probably from time immemorial humans’ attractions to dogs have been very strong. Anyone who has visited an animal shelter or pet store gets the urge to rescue one of those...
Playing Under the Table and Dreaming

Playing Under the Table and Dreaming

Dave Matthews, a prolific song writer and entertainer, had a smash song called “Ants Marching” in 1994. I was struck by his conjuring up of memories as a boy at his mother’s house. “And remembers being small, playing under the table and dreaming.”   This song,...
Huey, Dewey, and Louie

Huey, Dewey, and Louie

“Sufferin’ Succotash!” Mel Blanc, Daffy Duck’s cartoon voice, must have splattered himself with saliva every time Daffy used this expletive. Since 1937, that duck family has been entertaining us in comic books, television shows, and even full-length movies. Due to the...
Hit Me with Your Best Shot

Hit Me with Your Best Shot

In 1988, Pat Benatar released her smash, albeit angry, “Hit Me with Your Best Shot.” There is no wonder why listeners back then and even today have gravitated to these lyrics: You’re a real tough cookie With a long history Of breaking little hearts Like the one in me....
Good Morning, Sunshine

Good Morning, Sunshine

“Rise and Shine!” “Perhaps I will rise, but I may not shine.” From the ‘60s group Strawberry Alarm Clock came the tune “Good Morning, Starshine” which eventually became more famous for its use in the smash Broadway hit Hair.  Please notice the change of “star” for...
You’re So Hot

You’re So Hot

Sometimes I wonder how people trying to learn English can understand, much less use, different words and expressions.  I remember one of my son’s girlfriends who was Danish and could speak and understand four languages.  In a class at Michigan State University, she...