There once was a linguist named Trask
Who studied the syntax of Basque.
   He needed a purgative
   To deal with the ergative
And said, "Next time, I think I won't ask!"

There was a young man from Cần Thơ
Who put very hot ớt in his phở.
   When they said, "Don't you find
   That it burns you behind?"
He chuckled and answered, "Well, duh!"