We know it’s not nice to taunt the afflicted, but sometimes we can’t resist

Waxy.org finds for us a fun new web game: go to Amazon.com and look up some universally acclaimed work, like say Miles Davis’ Kind of Blue. Sort the customer ratings by “lowest first” and read what some slackjawed yokels have had to say. Hilarity ensues!

Perhaps the most bizarre comment Waxy finds is associated with John Coltrane’s A Love Supreme: “I think about Kenny G., for instance. His rythmic session is much more regular, whereas Coltrane’s session seems sometimes to loose the beat.” Er, right. (Predictable hilarity available also for films, books, etc.)

If it were a few years ago, we’d assume it had something to do with that Malkovich film

Our attention has been called to a job posting on Craigslist in New York, reproduced here due to its no-doubt fleeting nature.

Discerning businessman is seeking highly skilled puppeteer to provide sophisticated entertainment daily. Somewhat flexible hours, but must be willing to make a full-time commitment. You must possess:
  • Excellent handwork
  • Familiarity with marionette, stick and shadow puppets
  • Ability to adapt to unusual puppets
  • Subtle mastery of character
You can provide your own puppets if you wish, or you can choose from my wide selection of models. Especially seeking individuals in possession of 19th century marionettes or exotic east asian varieties. I have a reasonably sized stage (13′ x 10′) set up in my living room with a wide variety of vintage backdrops for many different stories. Serious inquiries only please. Email your resume with cover letter and photograph of puppets.

We should send Mohney to look into this.

Brilliant Flash Satire Game

Well, theoretically, it’s a game — in perfect mid-80s console style — but it’s got the longest intro EVAR. Stick it out at least until Hulk Hogan, fat, unemployed He-Man, Mr. T, and R2-D2 team up to stop Bush, Cheney, and Voltron.

No, really. The first level boss is giant, robotic Tom Ridge. He has a duct tape gun. I couldn’t possibly make this up. It’s huge, and between fights the authors have included information on bits like the recession, the “surplus,” economic policy, the estate tax, stem cell research, etc.

Oh, and there’s a Hillary Duff Fingerbang sequence.

In which we discuss things best left undiscussed

The Worm Within is a hilarious, if somewhat overly frank, account of what happens if you manage to acquire a tapeworm. In Belgium. Not that I think Belgium has any culpability here, mind you, odd menu choices aside.

The article has been widely blogged this week, I’ll admit; I cribbed it from Laura.

(Now: my father was a veterinarian; while he did treat dogs and cats similarly afflicted on a regular basis, I have no recollection of any event resembling the climax of this poor chap’s tale.)

Because, you know, sometimes they get cold. Or maybe because some people want them furry. We don’t know.

In New Zealand, you can buy possum fur nipple warmers.

We know what you’re thinking, though. “But Uncle Heathen, if I wear those, they won’t match my panties!” You’re fashion conscious. Of course you are. And you should be. Fortunately, the Kiwis have that covered, too.

(Links are to images only, since the website won’t allow bookmarks to specific products; the store link is here.)