Creator
Eric Partridge
Title
Letter to Joseph T. Shipley
Date
7 July 1975.
Subject
ALS with Shipley’s notations.
Description
While working on his Dictionary of Catchphrases, Partridge turned to informants for assistance, including amateur lexicographer Joseph Shipley. This list of queries from 1975 is typical. When Partridge tried to make sense of say uncle, Shipley responded: “late 19th children meaning ask for mercy / me to let up (e.g. twisting arm behind back, etc.).” Unfamiliar with Walt Kelly’s Pogo, Partridge asked about we have met the enemy—and they is us; Shipley curtly explained, “Am. comedian.” This letter is part of a trove of their correspondence.
Source
Ex coll. Karolyne & Bryan A. Garner. HHD no. 120