Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[nawee]

Hello,

I came across the phrase "own an eskimo scheme" as one of the top ten reasons for being an Canadian. What is an "eskimo scheme"?

Thank you,

Nawee

[myprofe]

I think it refers to the Canadian Football League team Eskimo. And the word scheme refers to the team itself or their playing strategy.
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I'm never going to learn if you don't correct my mistakes!

[CP]

It is supposed to be, "Own-an-Eskimo scheme," that is, a scheme / program to own an Eskimo.

It's a joke, as though Canadians have a special privilege to own an Eskimo, a rare thing these days, so valuable or prestigious.

The Top Ten comes from late-night talk-show host David Letterman, who has a funny / silly top-10 list every night.

Here's just one version of the Top 10 Reasons to Be a Canadian. Check reason number 9.

TOP 10 REASONS FOR BEING CANADIAN:

1. It beats being an American.
2. Only country to successfully invade the US and burn its capital to the ground.
3. You can play hockey 12 months a year, outdoors.
4. Only country to successfully invade the US and burn its capital to the ground.
5. Where else can you travel 1000 miles over fresh water in a canoe?.
6. A political leader can admit to smoking pot and his/her popularity ratings will rise.
7. Only country to successfully invade the US and burn its capital to the ground.
8. Kill Grizzly bears with huge shotguns and cover your house in their skins.
9. Own-an-eskimo scheme.
10. Only country to successfully invade the US and burn its capital to the ground.
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You live a new life for every new language you speak. -Czech proverb

[nawee]

Thank you, CP.

But how can you own an eskimo? Do you mean they provide financial support or welcome an eskimo into their house?

Thank you,

Nawee

[CP]

No, it's a joke.

Of course you can't own an Eskimo, but don't you find it humorous to think that the Canadians might have a special right to buy an Eskimo to show off as a special, rare object?

Michael Jackson might own a chimp, but look at my Eskimo!
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You live a new life for every new language you speak. -Czech proverb