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If it harelips every cannibal

Posted by Bill on November 13, 2008 at 16:37

The phrase in question includes the words: "...if it harelips every cannibal.". I know of two references, both in Stanley Kubrick films (Dr. Strangelove and Full Metal Jacket) and both by military characters. It appears to be an expression of determination despite great difficulty, equivalent to phrases like "come hell or high water" or "if it takes all day." An example may be "I'll get this engine running if it harelips every cannibal in the Yukon." The geographic location may or may not have any bearing on the actual location of the engine. Any thoughts?

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