This is inspired by Robyn’s brother-in-law, Jason.
Everybody is familiar with the expression, “I want to die in this house.” If you think about it, it probably doesn’t describe an emotion you’ve felt. It’s hard to imagine how that sentence came to mean that a person really likes his house. I know I’ve never had an urge to stop living in any particular building, although I like my house fairly well.
Last Sunday, we were contemplating other places and things that might fit in expression. Here are my attempts to brainstorm as many good ones as possible. I find it interesting that, besides reflecting a morbid preoccupation, each one takes on a slightly different meaning.
“I want to die in this boat.” Same meaning, or lack thereof, as ‘house’.
“I want to die in this hospital.” I’m sick of being sick and ready to die in this or any other hospital, stat.
“I want to die in this mall.” I’ve often felt this way while being dragged through a mall, if only to escape an afternoon of shopping.
“I want to die in this ocean with huge stingrays.” Sorry, bad taste. Mea culpa.
“I want to die in this restaurant.” Presumably so my estate can sue for the full extent of their insurance coverage.
“I want to die in this car.” Possibly, “I hope I’m driving fast and taking chances when my time comes.” It certainly wouldn’t mean that a person really likes his car.
“I want to die in this jail/prison.” See ‘mall’ above.
“I want to die in this relationship.” See ‘jail/prison' above.
“I want to die in this strip club.” The meaning is intuitive to those who already understand; for all others, no explanation would be sufficient.
“I want to die in this bar.”
Why? Pull yourself together, man. Have a drink. It’s not so bad.
