Consider:
Most men wear their belts low here, there being so many outstanding bellies, some big
enough to have names of their own and be formally introduced. Those men don’t suck them
in or hide them in loose shirts; they let them hang free, they pat them, they stroke them as
they stand around and talk.
— Garrison Keillor, “Home,” Lake Wobegon Days


Discuss:
1. What is the usual meaning of outstanding? What is its meaning here? What does this pun
reveal about the attitude of the author toward his subject?
2. Read the second sentence again. How would the level of formality change if we changed
suck to pull and let them hang free to accept them?


Apply:
Write a sentence or two describing an unattractive but beloved relative. In your description,
use words that describe the unattractive features honestly yet reveal that you care about
this person, that you accept and even admire him/her, complete with defects. Use Keillor’s
description as a model. Throw in a pun if you can think of one. Share your description with
the class.