The Key, to my relationship with the word irrelevant (as suggested by the word itself) suggests that I give it some sort of context as I continue) is Wrinkle Remover. Think of it as ‘the punch-line’.
I walked into the convenience store to pick up some cat litter. Absentmindedly, evaluated the differences in brand offerings – such as their presentation about effectiveness: clump properties, Double Duty, Ordor control (both urine and feces), Easy Scooping (implying that it can be difficult, rather than nausea inducing), and so on.. All packages with photos of cute little kittens. Being Canadian, it’s, of course, all presented in both Official Languages. Having made my selection, I head to the cashier’s counter.
Directly ahead of me at the counter is the back of a woman who (assuming from her stooped shoulders and greying, bedraggled hair) is obviously older than I am. I guessed about her to be in the mid-70’s range. Never did see her face.
Directly opposite her is a man, healthy looking, short-cropped whitish-blond hair, perhaps in his early to mid-60’s. He’s engaged in conversation with the woman; ahead of me.; and this is where I come in ….as he’s asks her ….
“… what do you need wrinkle remover for? All you need is a dose of Castor oil every morning. Look at me. How old do you think I am?“
The woman responds but I don’t hear what she says.
He continues., “I take Castor oil every morning. I’m 61 and have no wrinkles.” He then looks over at me and asks, “You look younger than me. How old are you? 45?“
“63“, I respond.
In an almost unbelieving voice he asks, “Do you take Castor oil as well?“
“No“, I replied. Just one bourbon, one scotch, one beer“. He then left, shaking his head.
And while I paid for my merchandise the thought crossed my mind. What a fool believes. It also left me thinking about being baked.