drive (someone) to drink, to
To annoy someone to distraction. A twentieth-century Americanism, this expression implies that alcohol-induced oblivion is the only form of escape from the pest in question. W. C. Fields turned it around in his quip, “I was in love with a beautiful blonde once—she drove me to drink–’tis the one thing I’m indebted to her for” (quoted in Whole Grains, by A. Spiegelman and B. Schneider). See also drive up the wall.
Similar Terms & Expressions
- Drive up the wall: To intensely annoy or irritate someone.
- On one’s nerves: Causing irritation.
- Get under (someone’s) skin: To bother or irritate someone persistently.
Synonyms
- Annoy, Exasperate, Irritate, Agitate
Antonyms
- Soothe, Calm, Comfort, Pacify
Humor-Filled Quotes
- “My wife and I were happy for twenty years – then we met.” – Rodney Dangerfield
- “There is always wine for those who are often lonely;” – Jonathan Franzen, The Corrections.
Proverbs
- “The best way to escape life’s trials is to listen to dog music.” – Anonymous
- “Little pots soon boil over.” – Dutch Proverb
Suggested Literature, Books, Songs, Poetry, and Movies
- Book: The Drunkard’s Walk: How Randomness Rules Our Lives by Leonard Mlodinow
- Book: Under the Volcano by Malcolm Lowry
- Song: “Whiskey River” by Willie Nelson
- Movie: Lost Weekend (1945)
- Poem: “Lines for Winter” by Mark Strand, where soothing calm is sought against an external chaos.
Past the Post Scriptum 💡
Patience is a virtue, but sometimes impatience makes for a better story. When you find yourself on the verge of “driving someone to drink,” perhaps it’s a cue for a toast—a toast to humor, resilience, and the fine line between madness and brilliance.
Farewell Thought: Remember, life is too exquisite to be bogged down by irritation. When annoyance tries to take the wheel, reclaim your journey by steering yourself toward laughter, resilience, and a good dose of humor. Here’s to navigating the potholes with grace and a hearty chuckle.
Warmly, Patience N. Pondering
