🚶♀️ Expression of Despair and Frustration: “Throwing Up Your Hands” 🚶♂️
Raise those hands high, because we’re about to explore the gesture synonymous with “I give up!” The act of physically tossing up one’s hands has long been a universal sign of exasperation, often replacing words when nothing else can capture our utmost frustration. This article dives into the rich history of this cliché and its pervasive use in literature, culture, and common parlance.
Etymology & Historical Usage
The gesture of throwing up one’s hands as a sign of surrender or exasperation is older than the printed phrase “throwing up one’s hands,” which first appeared around the late 19th century. George M. Fenn’s 1890 novel The Double Knot famously utilized this phrase:
“The woman threw up her hands and reeled.”
Related Expressions
Here are some cousins (or second cousins) to “throwing up your hands”:
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“Throw in the towel” 🥊 » Meaning: To give up or admit defeat. Synonyms: Concede, surrender. Antonyms: Persist, persevere.
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“At wit’s end” 🤯 » Meaning: Completely puzzled or perplexed. Synonyms: Baffled, stumped. Antonyms: Enlightened, informed.
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“S.O.S” 🆘 » Meaning: A distress signal frequently used metaphorically. Synonyms: Help, emergency. Antonyms: Safe, sound.
Humorous Quotes & Proverbs
Here are some quotes that might just make you literally throw up your hands in laughter (or irony):
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“I’m throwing up my hands like I’m covering my mouth, but secretly, it’s because I’m all out of words.” – A Frustrated Poet
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“Sometimes your only available transportation is a leap of faith – and maybe a hand throw!” – Margaret Shepherd
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“They say when life hands you lemons, make lemonade. I say, just throw up your hands, and have someone bring you a cocktail instead.” – Bartender’s Wisdom
Literature, Songs, and Movies
For the seasoned reader or watcher, here are some recommendations:
Books:
- The Double Knot by George M. Fenn – where it all began!
- War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy – plenty of moments for hand-throwing!
- Catch-22 by Joseph Heller – an entire masterpiece dedicated to absurdity and exasperation.
Songs:
- “Under Pressure” by Queen & David Bowie – pure existential dread in lyric form.
- “The Long and Winding Road” by The Beatles – because sometimes, all roads feel like a chase towards despair.
Movies:
- Falling Down (1993) – A film that’s basically one long “throwing up your hands” moment.
- Network (1976) – Where “I’m mad as hell, and I’m not going to take this anymore!” became everyone’s hands-up anthem.
Quizzes
Author: E. L. Agonywright
Published: October 01, 2023
🌿 Inspirational Thought: 🌿
“It’s easier to throw up your hands, but more rewarding to roll up your sleeves.”
