Catch phrases
Sir: Mr Benny Green has, in the issue of 9 September, pointed out what I realise, far more acutely than he possibly could, that I'm no authority on the catch phrases originating in 'showbiz' in general, radio and TV in particular, since the early 1930s. But that group of catch phrases is neither the most important nor the most enduring. What's more, I have attempted an historical dictionary of the subject, beginning some four hundred years before Mr Green's recollection apparently began. I am most grateful for his numerous corrections and additions and, if there should be a second edition of A Dictionary of Catch Phrases, his valuable contributions will be fully utilised — and fully acknowledged. Also, he may care to know that I have never been an ivory-towered recluse. He seems to think — I can hardly suppose he believes — that, since World War I, I have lived like an anchorite in a library or a study. Very far from it. I did serve actively in the Army, 1940-41, and, less actively, in the RAF, 1942-45; have clubbed and pubbed, both before and after World War II, and have kept eyes and ears open all my life.
Mr Green may, just possibly, bring himself to admit that his manner was, perhaps, slightly offensive. Anyway, there is, I trust, no harm in suggesting that pleasurable possibility.
Eric Partridge Newton Abbot, Devon
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