Sometimes, riddle are mere linguistic absurdities,
demonstrated by the following dialogue I’ve imagined…
“What, young apprentice, is the sound of one hand clapping?”
“Master, I have studied this problem. The answer is that the
question is not meant to be answered.”
“Incorrect. Now I must hit you with my stick.”
“Master, no! I have read the scrolls of the Ancients. There
can be no other interpretation!”
“You think you understand the Ancients, yet you dishonor them
with words. Perhaps the force of my blow will teach you to mind your tongue.”
“Ow! Master, please. If that is not the answer, then what
is? Please, guide me. Master?”
“You have answered the riddle, yes, but in answering the
riddle you have not answered the riddle.”
“I think I see the answer now, master. The answer is
silence.”
“I am not convinced that you understand. Shall I strike you
with this stick once more?”
“Master, no! Ow! I understand now. Ow!”
“Go now, young apprentice. The question and I are tired of
your eager tongue.”
Next time, ignore this riddle or punch the person asking it
in the face. That’s what Wittgenstein would want us to do.
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