Putting the harp into Harpo

OK, here is a bit of a trivia question for you all,

Every Marx Brothers movie has a scene in which Harpo plays the, hmmm, harp. These scenes are, arguably, the best scenes in each film. Harpo's entire visage, his entire personality seems to change during these scenes. He, of course, was a very talented and professional harpist, a very formidable instrument under any circumstances.

So, the question ... the writers struggled as to how to introduce the harp into each film. So as to make it seem 'natural' that it was there. An interesting challenge. When was the last time you walked into a harp on Seventh Avenue?

But they did it - another pleasure of watching a Marx Brothers' movie.

In 'A Day At The Races', the harp is introduced in perhaps the most ingenuous way, an incredibly inventive way. SO, question ... how?

Extra points if you can name the song Harpo plays, in the most wonderful way.

Here is a clip from 'A Day At The Races', in which Harpo plays a tin whistle, dancing with a full crew of Negroes. I use this word on purpose. Most people don't understand this extended scene in the film at all. Is it that hard to understand? Think! It is one of the most beautiful scenes in filmdom. Jesus Christ, use your head. Yes, it has little to do with the film's general narrative - it was designed that way, so the editor's could cut the scene from the film to allow it to be shown in the South - where censorship at that time would have prohibited it - think about that for a minute! Most people will say, well, the Marxes were giving a few hundred people some wages for a few days. True, but wait. They were doing a lot more. We watch this film every day, and I have never seen a better depiction of everyday life in strife than this. It is pure Dickens. And then some.







I'll give you an extra question along the same lines. In 'A Night In Casablanca', Harpo's harp is hidden in a secret room full of Nazi treasure troves. When he comes upon the harp, and his entire body quakes, as do our's - as we know there is going to be a boss harp solo coming up - what does he play? It is perhaps the best rendition of this old war horse ever!

For now ... Rich