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This clever riddle points to the humble pencil eraser, an indispensable tool for anyone who puts lead to paper. The phrase "I'm the end that brings the end" perfectly describes its position at the top of many pencils and its purpose in eliminating mistakes. It truly is "the one that hides," making errors disappear as if they never existed. The "shackles gird me waist to toe" refers to the metal ferrule that secures the eraser, often holding it firmly to the pencil's body, which could be seen as the "tower I." This small but mighty implement is "ever tasked to make amends," constantly correcting our slips and miscalculations.
As you use it, the eraser "slowly here I die," wearing away with each stroke, a testament to its diligent work. The "stricken foe you'll never know" represents the erased graphite marks, vanished without a trace, and their "death is met with sigh" alludes to the common habit of blowing away the tiny rubber shavings after an erasure, a small breath of relief for a clean slate.
Before modern erasers, people often used moist breadcrumbs to rub out pencil marks. The discovery of natural rubber in the 18th century revolutionized this process. English engineer Edward Nairne is credited with patenting the first rubber eraser in 1770, after scientist Joseph Priestley noted rubber's ability to "rub out" pencil marks. These early rubber erasers were quite effective, working by physically lifting graphite particles from the paper's surface, a principle still used today, though materials have evolved to include synthetic rubbers and plastics for better performance and less smudging.
More Challenging Trivia Questions
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We sound like Eden as a pair. Make us weight, we won't play fair. Sometimes consensus, most times schism. Usually locked away in prism. If by chance you seek, then throw. The serpent sees where we meet low. We carry freight when we meet high, But separate us, and we die.
21Unlike other rulers I am strengthened by neglect. Over my jurisdiction, great taxes I elect. When routine dues are paid, I am weakened severely. Yet if too long delayed, it may cost you quite dearly. My vault is of the flesh, my tellers silver and bone. The upkeep of the kingdom is financed with a loan.
20I have a heart that never beats, I have a home but I never sleep. I can take a mans house and build anothers, And I love to play games with my many brothers. I am a king among fools. Who am I?
19You may think me an actor; people come from all over the world to see me play my role. The play begins like all plays do – the red curtain draws aside, and I come onto the stage. There is one other actor. He is dressed in beautiful, bright clothing. I, however, am entirely naked. There are many acts in this play, in between which the other actor helps me to get dressed before the curtain reopens. He dresses me in colorful piercings and a red coat. The story we tell is a tragedy through dance. My choreography is straightforward, but if he forgets his then the play is over. Either way, I consider this a once in a lifetime performance. What role do I play?
19Twice born but once it dies. A more feline obelisk then a dairy soar. Some to royalty will rise. When seen by many they're adored. What is it?
18My owner never calls me by name. Also, I take; Although, I make. A glutton to be thinner.