🗣️ Having the Last Word: A Historical and Humorous Journey 💬
Definition: To have the final say in a decision or the closing rejoinder in a debate. This age-old term has been part of linguistic lore since the sixteenth century.
Historical Context:
The Origins
The origin of “having the last word” is as old as the hills, dating back to the sixteenth century. The phrase was immortalized by Ben Jonson in his play A Tale of a Tub (1633). Jonson cleverly played with the term, even introducing the now-forgotten word “bilk”—a term amusingly explained as signifying “Nothing.”
Proverbial Use
“He will have the last word though he talk bilk for it.” In simpler terms, some people insist on having the final say, even if they end up saying utter nonsense. Perhaps they imagine their talking points are stronger if delivered from atop a rhetorical high horse.
Modern Usage:
The New York Times had some fun with this term in a 2005 article on lexicographers, tastefully titled “In Land of Lexicons, Having the Last Word.” Ah, lexicographers—the ultimate word nerds with the ultimate job of having the final say on written words.
Related Terms:
- Final say: The definitive decision-making power.
- Concluding remarks: The final words or comments in a dialogue or debate.
- Nail in the coffin: The final action or statement that led to a definitive end.
- Put to bed: To finish or settle something, especially a debate or discussion.
Similar Phrases:
- Sign off: To complete or conclude something with finality.
- Wrap it up: To finish or bring to a close.
- Bring down the curtain: To end, especially in a dramatic or definitive way.
Humor:
“Having the last word is my wife’s specialty. Example: ‘Are you muttering something?’ Me: ‘No, dear…’”
Source Unknown
Inspirational Thought:
“Having the last word in a debate shows you have endurance; leaving it for someone else shows you have wisdom.” - Anonymous Wisecracker
Trivia and Fun:
Did you know that the phrase “having the last word” can also be synonymous with terms from astronomy? For instance, Neptune always has the last word in solar system debates about who is the furthest major planet from the sun (Pluto might have a word in edgewise, though).
Suggestions for Reading and Viewing:
Literature:
- A Tale of a Tub by Ben Jonson
- In Fine Form: The Complete Book of Canadian Forms by Joan Finnigan
Movies:
- 12 Angry Men (1957) - A courtroom drama where jurors debate to have the final say.
- A Few Good Men (1992) - Iconic for its courtroom showdown about who gets the last word.
Songs:
- “Last Word” by Continental Drifters
- “Turn the Page” by Metallica
Quizzes 🎓:
Always remember, being kind in your words leaves a longer-lasting impression than having the last word. Farewell, and happy quipping!
— L. O. Quacious, October 2023
