Photoshopping pike-perches into images helps audiences visualize such absurd scenarios: For example, “asteroids are fine so long as they pass by” is also “asteroids are fine because a pike-perch passes by”. This homonymy gives rise to a pun: a sentence of the form “ so long as can also mean “ because a pike-perch ”. In addition, “kuha” also refers to a type of fish, the pike-perch.

The fun begins when we replace “kunhan” with the shortened form “kuha”, which is vernacular and therefore creates a mildly humorous contrast when inserted in profound statements. It begins with an ordinary, humorless sentence that fits this frame: “ so long as ” – for example, “Everything is fine so long as you remember to enjoy life”. I’ll opt for euphemism in translating the strongly worded message: “Stick those darn kuha stories where the sun don’t shine”.Īt some point in 2015, an anonymous genius had realized that a certain pun in Finnish was perfect for a meme.

The spontaneous, unedited nature of graffiti –in restrooms or elsewhere– interests linguists, often offering insights on language change in progress, among other things.Īn inscription written in a bold hand drew my eye: my name was in it. After a glance around to check that no other library patrons were present to disapprove of my behavior, I set to studying the graffiti in the restroom. I took refuge in a trendy library and visited the restroom. The rain on that July day in 2016 in Helsinki was unreasonably chilly. I have about the same amount of information about Finland as a casual tourist, and will live there one day only if my retirement plans go horribly wrong. My genetic material is from there, I have relatives there, and I have made an effort to know the language, but almost my entire life has taken place elsewhere. If you could refrain from labeling me that way, I would be so thankful.

I am taking the plunge and mentioning Finland, something I have avoided fastidiously for my 18+ years at Ball State so as not to get inaccurately and permanently categorized as being from Finland. Dear reader, I have something to ask you.

My bsu .edu