Publisher's Synopsis
Oops, Pardon, Mrs Arden! is a compendium of sayings that have caught on, mostly in the home, but also in informal situations. These phrases have stuck because they appeal to something in the speaker and because they are fun, off-the-peg ways of dealing with life's little crises and embarrassments. Rees has researched this particular area of expression with the help of thousands of enthusiasts who have written to him over the years, as a result of his radio show and first book. Their recollection of domestic catch phrases has enabled him to compile geographical profiles of where usage has occurred, as well as when the catch phrase was popular. Set out in alphabetical order and with cross-references, this book is full of entertaining sayings, and perfect for delving into when you need a phrase to sum up a situation. In case you were wondering, Oops, pardon, Mrs Arden, there's a pig in your garden! is what you explain after burping, in order to deflect attention from yourself. And don't forget this important piece of business advice: never wrestle with a chimney sweep.
