The old chestnut has it that there’s a first time for everything. Last night I learned the truth of this axiom to my cost. I only effing well went and snapped my banjo string.
The first hint of trouble came in the form of a searing, burning sensation, which soon settled down to a throbbing ache. Then there was the bleeding, which went on for hours.
My cursing and carrying on led the wife to get on Ol’ Doc Internet pronto. “Mmm”, says she *tap tap* “…yes, it’s called the frenulum” (like I really needed to know that). “It says that it’s common for it to tear, that it’s usually not serious, and that it will heal by itself. Bind to contain the bleeding. Consult your general practitioner if you’re concerned “.
“Flaming arseholes” I curse, limping off in search of lint and surgical tape. “Concerned? Fucking twats. It feels like I’m ruined for life”.
“Can I do anything?” asks she, trying not to get the giggles at my hopelessly inept attempts to bandage my tadger. “Should I try to fashion a sling…?”.
“Piss off” says I testily. “Go and fetch me a Glenfiddich large enough to stun a gorilla. I’m off to lie on the bed”.
Fast forward to the morning. Following a night’s sleep broken by discomfort and worry, I decide that it is indeed proper to consult our GP, who duly phones me back. “What’s the problem?” she asks, in her usual, cheery way.
“Well *ahem* says I. “I’ve got one of those ‘down there’ problems”, and proceed, somewhat haltingly, to describe my dilemma.
“It’s a common occurrence” she confirms, “and it’ll heal itself, but I can tell that you’re anxious, so pop round at half ten and I’ll have a look to be on the safe side and set your mind at rest”.
So off I go, and duly suffer the indignity of having the family jewels examined for the purposes of medical investigation. “No, it’s nothing to worry about” says she. “It’s one of those things which causes distress out of all proportion to the actual injury. I’ll give you some antibiotic cream, and you should refrain from ‘risky’ activity for twelve days or so. I’ll diary you for a follow up call a week today”.
So now here I am some twenty four hours later, mincing about like Elton John’s houseboy, and with a face which looks (according to the wife) “like Wee Jimmy Krankie’s slapped arse”.
On the debit side, I’ve learned that the banjo string can be a cunt. On the credit side, I live in hope that the wife will be stricken by remorse for her giggling, and kiss it better at the earliest opportunity. Every cloud, it’s all part of life’s rich tapestry etc.
Nominated by: Ron Knee




