So You Saw a Barney in Boston? Don't Panic, It's Not a Prehistoric Throwback (Probably)
Let's face it, Boston's a walkable city, but that doesn't mean you'll be dodging dinosaurs on your stroll through the Public Garden. If you hear someone mutter "Watch out for the Barneys" while dodging tourists with selfie sticks, fear not, paleontologists! You're not about to witness a Jurassic Park situation. In Boston, "Barney" refers to something a tad less toothy and a whole lot more...well, studious.
Breaking Down the "Barney": A Crash Course in Local Lingo
Boston's a city steeped in history, and its slang is no different. "Barney" is a colorful term used specifically for Harvard students or graduates. It originated in neighboring Somerville, a place where blue-collar grit met the scholarly air of Harvard. Apparently, the contrast between the two was enough to inspire some good-natured ribbing. Some folks say it stemmed from the old MBTA trolley barns that sat near the university (hence the "barn" connection), but the exact origin is a bit fuzzy, like that feeling you get after a night of too many Dunkin' Donuts.
From Barnyards to Brainpower: The Not-So-Secret Life of Barneys
So you know what a Barney is, but what are they like? Well, that depends on who you ask. Some Somerville residents might tell you they're a bunch of over-caffeinated bookworms with an inflated sense of self-importance (allegedly). Others might see them as future leaders, brimming with potential and...well, maybe a touch out of touch with the real world (but hey, everyone's gotta start somewhere, right?). The truth, like a perfectly brewed cup of New England clam chowder, probably lies somewhere in between.
Important Note: Don't be fooled by the playful term. Bostonians are a friendly bunch, and "Barney" is usually used in a lighthearted way. Think of it as a playful jab at your local brainiacs, not a full-on insult.
How to Spot a Barney in the Wild (Without Getting Poked by a Thesis)
While there's no official Barney uniform (though a backpack overflowing with textbooks is a good clue), here are some telltale signs:
- Nasal voice engaged in a deep philosophical discussion about the merits of existentialism vs. transcendentalism. (Bonus points if it's happening on the T during rush hour.)
- Sporting a Harvard sweatshirt that looks suspiciously pristine. (Real talk, how do they keep those things so white?)
- Asking for directions to the nearest library with an air of desperate urgency. (Research never sleeps, after all.)
Remember: These are just for fun! Barneys come in all shapes and sizes, just like any other group.
Barney FAQ: Your Guide to Navigating the Bostonian Jungle (Just Kidding, It's Pretty Friendly)
Okay, so you've got the Barney basics down. But maybe you're curious about how to interact with these scholarly creatures. Fear not, intrepid explorer! Here's a quick Barney FAQ to help you navigate your next Boston adventure:
How to greet a Barney: A simple "Hey" or "How's it going?" will do. Bonus points for using a good ol' Boston "wicked" in there somewhere. ("Hey, how's it goin' wicked good today?")
How to avoid a Barney debate: Unless you're a philosophy major yourself, maybe steer clear of controversial topics. Stick to the weather, the Red Sox, or how much everyone hates the traffic.
How to befriend a Barney: Show genuine interest in their studies (even if it makes your head spin). They might just introduce you to some cool hidden gems in the city, like the best spot for a lobster roll (because let's be honest, everyone loves a good lobster roll).
How to tell if a Barney is actually a dinosaur: If they're trying to eat your car, then maybe. Otherwise, you're probably safe.
How to become a Barney: Well, that involves getting accepted into Harvard first. But hey, maybe you can start by brushing up on your existentialism and transcendentalism. Just sayin'.
