Howard Mohr > Quotes

“Two- to four-finger waves are commonly used between fast-moving vehicles, but the nicely executed single-finger wave is a thing of beauty and a joy forever. To me, it perfectly sums up the Minnesota character that I love so much. The finger wave from the steering wheel: when you get it right, you'll know you've arrived and you don't ever have to leave again if you don't want to.”
― Howard Mohr, How to Talk Minnesotan: A Visitor's Guide

“Getting Started in Minnesotan Handy Words and Phrases   You bet   That’s different   Whatever These three workhorses of Minnesota conversation will carry you through your first scary hours here. Memorize them, work on them at home with your family, repeat them until they are second nature. They are the building blocks of all dialogue.”
― Howard Mohr, How to Talk Minnesotan: Revised for the 21st Century

“On the other hand, if you drive to Minnesota you could have car trouble right away and be towed to a gas station: —“I don’t like the sound of that thing. At first I thought maybe just moisture in the distributor cap, but now, I don’t know, I think we’re talking valves here, or a broken piston.” —“I appreciate your concern.” —“You bet. Goin’ far?” —“I guess not.”
― Howard Mohr, How to Talk Minnesotan: Revised for the 21st Century

“Good things happen—yes—but when they do, Minnesotans are a little nervous because they know something bad will eventually happen to balance it out.”
― Howard Mohr, How to Talk Minnesotan: Revised for the 21st Century