Why is raven like a writing desk?

[aveleen]

Because it can produce a few notes, tho they are very flat; and it is never put with the wrong end in front! This, however, is merely an afterthought; the Riddle, as originally invented, had no answer at all. (Lewis Carroll, 1896)

Because the notes for which they are noted are not noted for being musical notes. (Puzzle maven Sam Loyd, 1914)

Because Poe wrote on both. (Loyd again)

Because there is a B in both and an N in neither. (Get it? Aldous Huxley, 1928)

Because it slopes with a flap. (Cyril Pearson, undated)

In 1976 Carroll admirer Denis Crutch pointed out that in the 1896 preface quoted above, the author had originally written: "It is nevar put with the wrong end in front." Nevar of course is raven spelled backward.

Because they both come with inky quills.

Because you cannot ride either one of them like a bicycle.

Мне, конечно, последний вариант особенно нравится, потому что именно сегодня я узнала, что сравнительные обороты могут не только указывать на похожесть, но и отрицать ее.