Cold Ink

One of my favorite lame gags from yesteryear is to ask someone, "If cold tea is called iced tea, what is cold ink called?" When the person answers "iced ink," it sounds like "I stink," and I'm amused.

The problem is, only a few unsuspecting people have ever answered the question. Many have heard it before, and refuse to cooperate, while others figure it out before answering. So I'm left with few opportunities to successfully enjoy the rewards of this classic set-up.

But I recently came up with a solution. I ask this question instead: "If old cars are called used cars, what is old ink called?" The person answers "used ink," which sounds like "you stink," and we're both amused. Of course, I'm subjecting myself to verbal abuse, but a good gag is a good gag.

And for the few unsuspecting souls who answer the question but don't catch on, I quickly add, "Wait, try this question instead: If cold tea is called iced tea, what is cold ink called?" And then I explain that one to them.