Meaning: This quote, attributed to the legendary comedian George Burns, humorously captures the idea of losing track of alcohol consumption. It is a clever play on the common saying that "it takes only one drink to get me drunk," but then adds a twist by humorously suggesting that the speaker has trouble remembering whether it's the thirteenth or the fourteenth drink that causes them to become intoxicated.

George Burns, born Nathan Birnbaum in 1896, was an American comedian, actor, and writer who had a career that spanned vaudeville, film, radio, and television. He was known for his wit, charm, and longevity in the entertainment industry. This quote reflects his comedic style, which often revolved around clever wordplay and insightful observations about human nature.

In this quote, Burns captures the humorous and often paradoxical nature of alcohol consumption. The idea that "it takes only one drink to get me drunk" is a common sentiment expressed by many people who have experienced the effects of alcohol. It humorously highlights the fact that for some individuals, even a small amount of alcohol can lead to a feeling of intoxication.

The second part of the quote, "The trouble is, I can't remember if it's the thirteenth or the fourteenth," adds a layer of irony and self-awareness to the statement. It suggests that the speaker has lost track of the number of drinks they have consumed, a situation that is familiar to many who have indulged in alcohol. The humor lies in the exaggeration of the forgetfulness, as it is unlikely that someone would genuinely forget whether they had consumed thirteen or fourteen drinks. This exaggeration serves to highlight the absurdity of the situation and elicits a comedic response from the audience.

Furthermore, the quote also touches on the theme of memory and perception. Alcohol consumption can impair memory and judgment, leading to situations where individuals may have difficulty recalling their actions or the amount of alcohol they have consumed. This can lead to humorous and sometimes embarrassing moments, as exemplified in Burns's witty remark.

In a broader sense, this quote can also be seen as a commentary on the social and cultural aspects of drinking. Alcohol plays a significant role in many social settings, and the quote humorously acknowledges the potential for overindulgence and its consequences. The light-hearted tone of the quote allows for a playful exploration of this theme without delving into the more serious implications of alcohol misuse.

Overall, George Burns's quote about the ambiguity of getting drunk after one too many drinks is a clever and humorous reflection on the effects of alcohol and the human experience. It encapsulates the comedian's wit and ability to find humor in everyday situations, making it a timeless and relatable observation for audiences of all generations.