‘You told me what the first rule of wisdom is,’ I...

4:27 pm - October 5, 2012: 5 notes

‘You told me what the first rule of wisdom is,’ I said. ‘What is the second rule?’

‘That can be answered,’ he said. ‘There are five in all. Always ask any questions that are to be asked and never answer any. Turn everything you hear to your own advantage. Always carry a repair outfit. Take left turns as much as possible. Never apply your front brake first.’

‘Those are interesting rules,’ I said dryly.

‘If you follow them,’ said the Sergeant, ‘you will save your soul and you will never get a fall on a slippy road.’

From The Third Policeman by Flann O’Brien (aka Brian O’Nolan, Myles na gCopaleen), who was born 101 years ago today.