I don't mind growing old. I'm just not used to it.
Clarinets, like lawyers, have cases, mouthpieces, and they need a constant supply of hot air in order to function.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote humorously compares clarinets and lawyers, suggesting that both require certain elements to operate effectively, particularly emphasizing the need for 'hot air'.
Victor Borge cleverly juxtaposes the functioning of clarinets with the profession of law, indicating that both have specific components necessary for their operation. The mention of 'hot air' humorously implies that lawyers, much like musical instruments, require a significant amount of talk or bluster to be effective, playing on the common stereotype of lawyers and their eloquence.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
In a light-hearted speech at a law firm event, one might say, 'Remember, clarinets, like lawyers, need plenty of hot air to stay in tune!'
More from Victor Borge
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It was one of the dullest speeches I ever heard. The Agee woman told us for three quarters of an hour how she came to write her beastly book, when a simple apology was all that was required.
Not everyone is comfortable with the kissing ritual. My husband is one of them. Her refuses to press lips with anyone except his wife, mother, and dog. If someone wanted to give him mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, he would refuse until he had been formally introduced.
There is no vaccine against stupidity.
Surveys show that the #1 fear of Americans is public speaking. #2 is death. That means that at a funeral, the average American would rather be in the casket than doing the eulogy.
ASS, n. A public singer with a good voice but no ear.
I've got the brain of a four year old. I'll bet he was glad to be rid of it.