h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

In my universe, futtocks are still being made, used and discussed. Also scarf joints are used in many other areas of woodwork.. ie: roof timbers.
Does this writer live in a parallel universe? or as I suspect, is the product of a sheltered upbringing.

Definitely the latter, Chris

This is a bit of a one-gag entry and not to be taken too seriously. Of course, if you could give me a few words on futtocks in the modern world, then I'll see if I can get them included

Icy

Hi, joking aside, anyone who has to do with wooden boats will be familiar with futtocks. I grew up using a small wooden dingy, and spent many hours maintaining it, varnishing, caulking, and replacing rotten wood. There are plenty of people for whom the nomenclature from which "futtocks".. futtock shrouds.. etc. comes is discussed over a cup of tea. (boat geeks?) There are lots of great words to do with boats........
I now work with wood everyday, though no longer have a boat. I often have cause to use scarf joints of one kind or another.
They are particularly good for, for instance, joining roofing timbers. I've also used them when removing the rotten ends of flooring joists to fit a new section into the supporting wall.
' hope this helps.
regards
Chris

Thanks Chris. I'll get the following paragraph added in the middle, if this sounds OK?

"Our larger ships may no longer be built from wood, yet smaller sailing dinghies are, of course. Boat geeks today will take a break from the many hours they spend varnishing, caulking and replacing the rotten wood of their vessels, and, sitting around with a cup of tea, will still discuss the merits of futtocks, scarf joints and other arcane nautical jargon."

And I'll get you mentioned with an "Additional Research" credit, too.

I have to request this change via the Editorial Feedback forum: I'll post a link to the request thread shortly...

Icy

The Editorial Feedback request is at F47997?thread=7361292

Icy

Thanks for helping me remember the nautical term used as slang; that I was trying to remember the other day.

I was actually thinking about, "Shot your wad" and the muzzle loading origins and couldn't remember "Shiver me timbers". Seriously

You're welcome, AT.

I remember finding a fascinating online dictionary of British naval slang when I was researching one of my entries (but I can't remember which). If I find the link I'll post it here.

This one, I think:

http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/training-and-people/rn-life/navy-slang/covey-crump-a-to-aye/covey-crump-a-to-aye

Thanks, I will definately check it out. Leaving work at the moment.
ttfn

Thanks for the Futtocks End reference. I did not know about these films and will keep an eye out for these. I haven't seen the Ronnies in years; although, I have a cassette of BBC comedy greats with them on it. Don't have any obscure terminology at the moment but will keep an ear open.

They used to show those films regularly, especially the last two, but I haven't seen them for many years now.

You can get a short clip of Futtocks End on Youtube. It seems to capture the essence of the piece

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w-skSSZyLm4

Yes sir, thank you sir. Will definately check it out when not at work. although, the internet at home is temporarily unavailable due to unforseen circumstances.