Asphalt Joke

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"A man walks into a bar" is one of the most famous joke introductions in English. Here, Alan gives the latest variation on this classic genre of American humor.

What's So Funny?

Customers in the U.S. may ask the bar or restaurant server to get them something "for the road." This means the patrons will be leaving soon and want food or beverage in preparation for leaving. (The expression "to hit the road" means to leave, to get going.) This is funny because the bar patron in the joke has a piece of road material (asphalt) with him when he enters the bar.

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Alan Headbloom

Alan advises Americans how to be global citizens and expats how to fit in to Michigan culture without annoying their native coworkers and clients. He also tweets and blogs at the intersection of language and culture. Over decades, he's traveled, studied, or lived on six continents, putting strange foods into his mouth and emitting strange sounds from it. His use of English, German, Spanish, Portuguese, French, Swedish, Hausa, and Japanese all improve with alcohol use. He gives invited public presentations on culture and unsolicited private advice on English grammar and usage; the latter isn't always appreciated. Visit his website for information on consulting, coaching, or speaking engagements.