A Joke That Goes Past Its Punchline, Volume III

“Knock knock!”

“Who’s there?”

“Hal!”

“Hal who?”

“Hal you know unless you open the door?”

“Dammit, Hal! I don’t have time for this. It’s eight in the morning and I’m going to be late for — eugh, look, this is exactly why our relationship didn’t work. You know you aren’t supposed to be here, Hal. I don’t want the kids seeing your car in the driveway. I’m sorry, Hal. Please just move on. I have.”

[Uncomfortable pause followed by inaudible mumbling. Footsteps are heard, gradually receding to nothing.]