Conductor, when you receive a fare, Punch in the presence of the passenjare: A blue trip slip for an eight-cent fare, A buff trip slip for a six-cent fare, A pink trip slip for a three-cent fare, Punch in the presence of the passenjare! Chorus: Punch, brothers, punch with care! Punch in the presence of the passenjare.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Twain satirizes bureaucratic ticketing rules, emphasizing the absurdity of rigid procedures.
- In plain terms
- Follow the rules strictly, even if they seem silly.
- What can you take from it?
- Adhere to official procedures.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Why do rules exist?
- How do you react to bureaucracy?
Another view
It exaggerates reality for comedic effect.
More from Mark Twain
This is petrified truth.
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