Monday, April 27, 2015

HUSBAND OF MINISTER'S WIFE


“HUSBAND OF MINISTER'S WIFE” 
Rick Jones 

Why was it so hard for me to decide on a name for this column? After all, while a title is important, isn't the written content most important?

Actually, a title can make or break a writer's efforts. Would Amazing Spider-Man have sold many copies if it was called Keen Bug-Guy?

Uh-oh. I'm dangerously close to getting sidetracked, because I love comic books. When Lois and I were a young married couple, comics cost around 50 cents each. She would question my hobby [I think her term was “addiction”] and I'd say, “Well, at least it's cheaper than cocaine.” Today, a comic book costs $2.99 or more, so I wouldn't try that comeback. [Disclaimer: I do not know, nor have I ever known, the going price for cocaine.]

Back to the topic of why I rejected some ideas for this column's title.

GUESTITORIAL: I've previously participated in Lois's blogging project, and consider myself privileged to make this ongoing contribution to it. But I'm her partner, not just a guest. Besides, it sounds dumb.

RICK'S RAMBLINGS: I really like this one, and it certainly describes my style here. But my brother wrote many opinion pieces for friends and coworkers under the title “Randy's Ramblings.” I respect his efforts too much to steal the title. Also, he might sue me. He couldn't get much money, but he might have his eye on my comic book collection.

RUMINATIONS: “Ruminate” can mean “ponder” or “think over thoroughly,” but it originally referred to chewing the cud, like a cow. Not the image I want in mind when I sit down to write. Besides, I know what a cow generally leaves for the world to see after it's through ruminating and digesting. And I know enough sarcastic people [like my brother] who would say that's what my articles are like without setting myself up for the comparison.

And after rejecting those ideas, the next one that came to mind was HUSBAND OF MINISTER'S WIFE. I personally find it amusing because it's a variation on old Universal Monster movie titles like Bride of Frankenstein, Son of Dracula, Revenge of the Creature. But it came to mind at around 2:30 AM, possibly influenced by a late-night snack that included bologna past its “best by” date. It was this terrible idea that led to our “Name This Column” contest.

[Enter the contest HERE!]

34 comments:

  1. I think the name totally defines who you are and what your site will be about.

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  2. I had to read the play on words twice before I figured out what you meant. lol I'm obviously working too hard this morning.

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    1. I have to do that in regular conversation with him.

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  3. The name is a good one. Keep on rambling!

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    1. We have the name picked out. It's in the newest column posted on the 8th of May!

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    1. We have the name picked out. It's in the newest column posted on the 8th of May!

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  5. Like Bella, I had to read it twice. lol. I like all of your choices and I like your writing more. So keep it coming.

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    1. I'm glad you like his writing. I've said it before, he keeps me laughing!

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  6. I like the Husband of Minister's Wife.

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    1. I did too, but he wanted something more around what he is like.

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  7. I think you chose the right name. I agree with you that a name/title is so important!

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    1. We have the name picked out. It's in the newest column posted on the 8th of May!

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  8. Keep the ramblings coming, I like the name.

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    1. He will keep them coming. he's written 12 already!

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  9. I like your new column name but whaaaa?? on the 2:30 am expired bologna feast??

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    1. We have the name picked out. It's in the newest column posted on the 8th of May!

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  11. Love the name but no no expired bologna! Just say no. Hahaha.

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  12. I think it is a great name! It is who you are and that's what this column is about!

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    1. We have the name picked out. It's in the newest column posted on the 8th of May!

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  13. Very interesting column addition. Keep the laughs coming!

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    1. Thanks! He's enjoying writing so far and I think he has a knack!!

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  14. Congrats on finding the best one. The name "Husband of minister's wife" sounds great & different as well. Great idea indeed.

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    1. We have the name picked out. It's in the newest column posted on the 8th of May!

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  15. I think you picked a great name! They all sounded like great ones to me.

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    1. We have the name picked out. It's in the newest column posted on the 8th of May!

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  16. This is such a fun development of this column. You clearly take your name very seriously. Or not. ;)

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    Replies
    1. Good point! You have to wonder how serious he is about some things he says.

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  17. Your brother writes stuff? Where can I buy a copy? Best wishes with the column.

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    1. Not sure there is enough money in the world to buy his brother's stuff!! LOL!

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