Meaning: Erma Bombeck, a beloved American humorist and journalist, is known for her witty and relatable observations about everyday life. The quote "Someone once threw me a small, brown, hairy kiwi fruit, and I threw a wastebasket over it until it was dead" is a perfect example of her humorous and down-to-earth style.

In this quote, Bombeck uses her trademark humor to describe a comical and absurd situation. The image of a small, brown, hairy kiwi fruit being thrown at her is unexpected and humorous, setting the stage for a playful and lighthearted story. Her response to the kiwi fruit, throwing a wastebasket over it until it was "dead," adds an element of exaggeration and absurdity to the situation, amplifying the humor of the quote.

Bombeck's writing often revolves around the challenges and joys of domestic life, and her ability to find humor in the mundane is a key aspect of her appeal. She has a knack for taking everyday experiences and infusing them with humor and warmth, making her relatable to readers from all walks of life.

One interpretation of this quote could be that it serves as a metaphor for dealing with unexpected challenges or annoyances in life. The kiwi fruit, representing an unexpected or undesirable situation, is humorously dispatched with the wastebasket, symbolizing a creative and humorous approach to dealing with life's less-than-ideal moments.

Erma Bombeck's writing style and humor have made her a beloved figure in American literature. Her ability to find humor in the everyday and to connect with readers on a personal level has made her work enduring and cherished. The quote in question is a testament to her unique perspective and her talent for turning the ordinary into the extraordinary through humor.

In conclusion, Erma Bombeck's quote about the kiwi fruit and the wastebasket is a delightful example of her humorous and relatable writing style. Through her humor, she captures the absurdity and joy of everyday life, and her ability to find humor in the mundane has made her a beloved figure in American literature. The quote serves as a reminder to approach life's challenges with creativity, humor, and a healthy dose of absurdity.