Signs of the times

Introduction

A little time ago I was watching Denis Norden on TV describing an ailment from which he suffered. It was called "literalism", and I have now caught it. The symptoms are simple enough, sufferers take what they read literally.

Soon after, I stumbled upon a delightful little book* called "Do you scratch your bottom in the bath? Have it reglazed by the professional (and other gems of miscommunication)". It's full of such gems as the notice in a shop window, "Bric-a-brac Bought, Antiques Sold" and a notice on the M40 reading "Emergency WC, 20 miles".

I started to collect photographs of notices intended to inform the public. A few are intentionally meant to amuse, most are unintentional, just carelessly worded. Many would be considered by non-sufferers as acceptable misuse of our language but those with severe symptoms will feel bound to take them literally.

I also came across other notices which were ambiguous, misspelt or just gave the wrong message and these are included for your entertainment. Just browse, have a giggle and enjoy yourself.

Want to contribute?
If you have any pictures of your own which you would be happy to add to this collection then please reduce the size of each picture to below 50K (by reducing its size and/or resolution), then click here and attach the pictures to your e-mail.

* Written by Michael R. Turner & published by Souvenir Press Ltd, ISBN 0-285-63464-X.