“The nurses enjoyed Gary’s spunk”
It is often said that the UK and USA are two countries divided by a common language. But that line from the book I am currently reading (And the Band Played On” by Randy Shilts) made me suddenly sit up – in bed as it happens.
The book is of course American and I am less than certain how that phrase can be used in American English. I assume from context and the occasional mention in other areas that it is meant to be a tribute to Gary’s courage and fortitude as he struggles with AIDS.
In the UK the meaning would be much more specific, conjuring up visions of an already ill Gary having to satisfy the fellatic desires of a queue of nurses.
Such a service is definitely not available on the UK’s National Health Service!
It serves as a reminder that not only should one be careful with other people’s languages (JFK’s “I am a doughnut.”) but also with others who allegedly share a language.