The Ripple and Swirl

They freewheeled down to the bottom of the hill, and along the esplanade to the Ripple and Swirl Cafe, where they ordered icecreams.

They sat at a window table facing the sea.

Are you a famous philosopher? Irma asked Wittgenstein.

Some people say that I am, replied Wittgenstein.

Well, what do you think that means? she asked, pointing to a blackboard at the back of the cafe on which was chalked:

A fish and a bird might indeed fall in love. But where shall they live?

What do you think it means? asked Wittgenstein. It means what it says.

No it doesn't, said Emma, licking her icecream thoughtfully. It means you are to think about the question.

So it does, agreed Saint Nicholas The idea is that two people might fall in love, but they might not agree on where to live. The question being, who is to give in?

No, no, said Professor Freud, it is more serious than that. A fish and a bird live in completely different elements. It is impossible for them to live together. The question merely points out the fact.

I think they could live together, said Irma. If they decided to live at the beach.

Very good Irma, said Wittgenstein. But they could not live together as husband and wife.

Yes, they could said Irma. If the bird was to dip his tail in the water, and if the fish....

Goodness me! said Professor Freud, knocking his icecream onto his glasses with an involuntary jerk of his hand. Irma, you and your sister are only eleven. Let us change the subject.

Irma and Emma giggled.

Saint Nicholas tried not to laugh.

Wittgenstein stared hard at the Professor.

What is it? asked Professor Freud. And why can't I see?