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Englishsz Posted 18 years ago
Grammar

pail of tears

Is it any wonder I wade through this pail of tears in a state of
confusion?
  

Top answer

"this vale of tears" is sometimes used (pessimistically) to refer to human life on earth. "this pail of tears" is either written 1. by someone ignorant of the correct expression, or 2.

— CalifJim

  • "this vale of tears" is sometimes used (pessimistically) to refer to human life on earth.
  • "this pail of tears" is either written 1.
  • by someone ignorant of the correct expression, or 2.
  • by someone who is trying to be cute and funny.
  • Whether they succeeded should probably left to the reader to consider.
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4 Answers
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"this vale of tears" is sometimes used (pessimistically) to refer to human life on earth.
"this pail of tears" is either written

1. by someone ignorant of the correct expression, or
2. by someone who is trying to be cute and funny. Whether they succeeded should probably left to the reader to consider.
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Is it supposed to be connected to the part above? It seems a bit dramatic for expressing confusion over whether to tip or not.

The write is so confused that he cries, and has cried so much he has a bucket of tears. I assume it's hyperbole.
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Thank you, CJ!
Does 'wade through this vale of tears' mean 'live a harsh life'? The words 'wade' and 'tears' seem to imply a not-very-happy life.
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EnglishszDoes 'wade through this vale of tears' mean 'live a harsh life'?
Wading is walking in water. You walk on land; you wade in water. So wade just means go.
You wade through water (or the wade through tears) as you "go through life".
So yes, it implies a sad life. But the author is most likely just joking.
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