On the ropes

[c.d.]

Hello Curious,

No, I found an actual picture of men sleeping on a bench hanging over a rope that was stretched across them. Don't know why it isn't coming up in the link. Sorry about that but trust me that is what I found.

c.d.

[c.d.]

By the way, when I click on the picture it cites Casebook as the source.

c.d.

[curious4]

On the ropes

Hello c.d.,

No, not convinced. Possibly a newspaper photo of unemployed men in the depression entitled "on the ropes" as in boxing, meaning men who are beaten. They are not being supported by the rope in any way.

Nope. However, up to each and everyone to decide which version is most logical (as Spock would say).

All the best,
C4

[c.d.]

Hello Curious,

Not sure we are looking at the same picture but I definitely see men sleeping supported by a rope. However, a closer look seems to show the men wearing suits which would be more in line with the Depression. So maybe you are right. I have no dog in the fight. Just trying to help out.

c.d.

[Sam Flynn]

However, a closer look seems to show the men wearing suits which would be more in line with the Depression.

According to this site: http://phrases.org.uk/meanings/sleep...othesline.html, the photo is from 1930s America, although the author of that page acknowledges they can't confirm this.

[curious4]

Hello Curious,

Not sure we are looking at the same picture but I definitely see men sleeping supported by a rope. However, a closer look seems to show the men wearing suits which would be more in line with the Depression. So maybe you are right. I have no dog in the fight. Just trying to help out.

c.d.

Hello c.d.

Don't mean to sound pushy, just my obsessive/compulsive side coming out.

Cheers,
C4

[curious4]

Sleep on a clothesline

According to this site: http://phrases.org.uk/meanings/sleep...othesline.html, the photo is from 1930s America, although the author of that page acknowledges they can't confirm this.

Orwell does admit that he didn't actually see this for himself, so we don't know if his informant was just stringing him along (sorry, couldn't resist).

Best wishes,
C4

[Cogidubnus]

Hi Gwyneth et al

This has been discussed in at least two other threads (probably more) and you may find the following links of interest:

http://forum.casebook.org/showthread.php?t=2395

http://forum.casebook.org/showthread.php?t=2488

All the best

Dave

[curious4]

Other threads

Hello Dave,

Yes, I have read the other threads, but was convinced my version was right (comes with age and pigheadedness) and wanted to put the record straight when I found the source.

I still think Dickens' version was the correct one for the 1880s.

Best wishes and may your feet stay dry,

Gwyneth/C4