Tokyo: When a passenger of the foot heave in sight, tootle the horn. Trumpet at him melodiously at first, but if he still obstacles your passage, then tootle him with vigor.
by Bill Bryson
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In the bustling city of Tokyo, there is a playful guide on how to interact with pedestrians while driving. Initially, when you see a person on foot, you should gently honk your horn to alert them. If they remain in your way despite the friendly alert, a more vigorous honking is advised to encourage them to move aside. This humorous approach illustrates the blend of politeness and insistence that can characterize urban driving etiquette.

Bill Bryson's book "The Mother Tongue: English and How It Got That Way" sheds light on the evolution of the English language through engaging anecdotes and observations. By emphasizing the quirky nature of communication—illustrated through this example of honking in Tokyo—Bryson captures how language and culture influence everyday interactions. His exploration reveals the humor and complexity inherent in language and its practical applications in diverse contexts.

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February 18, 2025

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