Or ‘Great Scott!’ as the Doc said, frequently in Back to The Future. Apparently, the expression was used a total of sixteen times in the trilogy of films by Dr. Emmett Brown with the last use being by Marty (McFly) in a ‘humorous reversal of roles’.
The phrase has been used by many others as an exclamation of surprise, amazement or dismay over the years (centuries). In popular fiction, it has been used in the works of Mark Twain, the Rathbone–Bruce Sherlock Holmes films (said by Dr. Watson), Silver Age comics (especially Superman), Mr Wilson in the television series Dennis the Menace and in the Rocky Horror Picture Show.
Today, Great Scott! (or Oh good heavens!) is my exclamation for my severe lack of preparation for the major annual event which will take place in 16 days. I don’t think I am alone, although I do know of some people (you know who you are!) who tell me that all their cards are written, presents wrapped and under the tree etc. etc. The date never changes from year to year but I am seemingly less and less prepared as the years roll by. As are others it would seem, as we have had no less than FIVE new family history research requests in the last three days, with clients hoping (vainly) that their entire family tree will be researched, collated and presented in two weeks, ready for said annual event. Erm…. no! Gift vouchers at the ready…..! And the festive cards aren’t exactly rolling in the letterbox either…. So, I am hopeful that I have not been ‘unfriended’ by everyone and that they are just as ‘up to their ears’ as I am….
So, pray tell…. when am I supposed to write my annual ‘Christmas Epistle’ which goes in with the Christmas cards? I haven’t done my overseas cards so probably missed the last posting date there…. Sorry folks! I think I’ll write the letter and cards in November next year and then I’ll have half a chance of being ready…. oh wait, I’ll be on a cruise ship heading for Bermuda/Miami/Florida. Oh heck….
[Don’t forget to keep an eye out over the course of December for the hidden message in the titles of FWL blogs…. When you think you know, email us so as not to spoil it for others!]
