Several loyal and observant readers pointed out a supposed-typo here; they suggested that the phrase should begin "Berry Berry Bo Berry" Not "Berry Berry Bo Erry," as I have it. This really got to me, because I pride myself at fishing out and exterminating typos (I was an undergrad English major). (If this isn't of any concern to you, return to the answers by clicking here.)

Well, folks, here's the deal. Putting names through these fanciful permutations comes from a sixties pop song by Shirley Ellis, which spells out the rules of engagement in the lyrics:

The first letter of the name

I treat it like it wasn't there

But a B or an F

Or an M will appear

And then I say Bo, add a B

Then I say the name

Then Banana Fanna and a Fo

Then I say the name again with an F very plain

Then a Fe Fi and a Mo

Then I say the name again with an M this time

And there isn't any name that I can't rhyme

But if the first two letters are ever the same,

Drop them both then say the name

Like Bob Bob drop the B's Bo Ob

Or Fred Fred drop the F's Fo Red

Or Mary Mary drop the M's Mo Ary

That's the only rule that is contrary

Thus, Berry, being like "Bob" becomes "Ob." I rest my case.

Back to Quiz 85 answers.