In the popular British sitcom “Only Fools and Horses,” one of the iconic running gags revolves around the concept of the “everlasting broom.” This refers to the idea that the broom has been in the family for so long that it has had multiple new heads and handles, making it seemingly last forever.
Throughout the series, various characters claim to possess the everlasting broom. Del Boy, the main protagonist played by David Jason, often boasts about being the current owner of this legendary cleaning tool. However, it’s unclear whether this claim is true or just part of Del Boy’s elaborate storytelling and grandiose delusions of grandeur.
Despite the ambiguity surrounding the actual ownership of the everlasting broom, it serves as a recurring symbol in the show, representing the characters’ resilience, resourcefulness, and ability to make do with what they have. It exemplifies the Trotters’ mantra of “plonkers with potential” and their optimistic outlook on life, despite their many misadventures and financial struggles.
Overview of Only Fools and Horses
Only Fools and Horses is a British television sitcom that aired from 1981 to 2003. Created by John Sullivan, the show follows the misadventures of the Trotter family, consisting of Del Boy (Derek) Trotter, his younger brother Rodney, and their aging granddad, as they try to make money through various get-rich-quick schemes in the London borough of Peckham.
The sitcom is set against a backdrop of social and economic change in Britain, capturing the essence of working-class life in the 1980s and 1990s. It combines comedy with heartfelt moments, exploring themes such as family, friendship, and ambition.
Main Characters
- Del Boy Trotter: The street-smart, wheeler-dealer main character, known for his distinctive fashion sense and iconic catchphrases like “Lovely jubbly” and “This time next year, we’ll be millionaires!”
- Rodney Trotter: Del Boy’s younger brother, who is often the voice of reason in the Trotter family. He dreams of a better life but often finds himself pulled into Del Boy’s schemes.
- Granddad: The elderly patriarch of the Trotter family, played by Lennard Pearce in the early series. After Pearce’s death, the character was written out of the show.
Legacy
Only Fools and Horses is considered one of the greatest British sitcoms of all time, winning numerous awards and attracting a large fan base. The show resonated with audiences due to its relatable characters, comedic moments, and moments of genuine emotion.
The show introduced iconic episodes, such as the “Batman and Robin” episode and the “Chandelier scene,” which have become part of British television history. Only Fools and Horses has also spawned spin-offs, stage adaptations, and merchandise.
Overall, the show’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless humor and charm, making it a beloved classic in British television.
Why is the everlasting broom significant?
The everlasting broom is a significant item in the sitcom “Only Fools and Horses” for several reasons. First and foremost, it represents the resourcefulness and entrepreneurial spirit of the show’s main character, Del Boy Trotter.
Throughout the series, Del Boy is known for his ability to make a profit out of practically anything. The everlasting broom is one such example. Del Boy buys the broom with the intention of selling it as part of a “New York souvenirs” deal. However, when the deal falls through, Del Boy comes up with a clever plan to sell the same broom over and over again by replacing the worn-out bristles. This highlights Del Boy’s quick thinking and knack for finding opportunities in unexpected places.
Furthermore, the everlasting broom also symbolizes the Trotter family’s resilience and determination to overcome obstacles. Despite facing numerous setbacks and financial difficulties, Del Boy and his brother Rodney never lose hope and continue to strive for success. The fact that they can turn a simple broom into a sustainable business venture reflects their unwavering belief in their own capabilities.
In addition, the everlasting broom has become an iconic symbol of the series itself. It has become synonymous with the Trotter brothers and their comical and often chaotic adventures. Fans of the show instantly recognize the reference and it has become a memorable part of British television history.
The ingenuity of Del Boy Trotter
Del Boy’s ability to turn a regular broom into a thriving business showcases his ingenuity and resourcefulness. His willingness to think outside the box and find creative solutions in order to make a profit is one of his defining characteristics.
A symbol of resilience
The everlasting broom represents the Trotter family’s determination to never give up, even in the face of adversity. Despite facing constant setbacks, they always find a way to bounce back and keep striving for success.
Who has the everlasting broom?
In the popular British sitcom “Only Fools and Horses,” the character Trigger is known for his claim of owning the “everlasting broom.” Trigger, whose real name is Colin Ball, is a dimwitted but well-meaning character who works as a road sweeper in Peckham, London.
The concept of the “everlasting broom” is a running joke throughout the series. Trigger explains that he’s had the same broom for 20 years, even though it has had 17 new heads and 14 new handles. Despite this, he insists that it’s still the same broom.
Trigger’s claims about the everlasting broom showcase his amusingly literal interpretation of the world, as well as his loyalty to his trusted cleaning tool. Throughout the series, the other characters mock Trigger’s logic, highlighting his unique outlook on life.
Character Description: Trigger
Trigger is a close friend of the main character, Derek “Del Boy” Trotter, and frequently interacts with the other members of the Trotter family. He is known for his distinctively deep voice, his frequent use of the catchphrase “Alright Dave?”, and his love for his broom.
As a character, Trigger brings humor to the show with his childlike innocence and unintentionally comical remarks. Despite his lack of intelligence, Trigger is portrayed as a kind-hearted and well-meaning person.
The Symbolism of the Everlasting Broom
The concept of the “everlasting broom” can be seen as a metaphor for Trigger’s character in “Only Fools and Horses.” Despite his limited intellectual capabilities, Trigger remains a constant and reliable presence in the lives of the other characters.
The ever-changing broom represents the passing of time, while Trigger’s loyalty to it reflects his steadfast nature. The broom’s constant modifications also symbolize Trigger’s adaptability and ability to make the most out of what he has.
In a way, the everlasting broom represents the resilience and endurance of Trigger’s character, making it an integral part of the show’s comedic charm.
Detailed look at the characters
“Only Fools and Horses” is a beloved British sitcom that follows the lives of the Trotter family in Peckham, London. The show is known for its memorable characters, each with their own unique traits and quirks. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key characters that have made the show so popular:
Derek “Del Boy” Trotter
Derek Trotter, better known as Del Boy, is the main character and the ultimate wheeler-dealer. He is a street-smart market trader, always on the lookout for the next big opportunity. Del Boy is known for his flashy outfits, unique vocabulary, and catchphrases such as “lovely jubbly” and “this time next year, we’ll be millionaires.” Despite his often misguided schemes, Del Boy has a heart of gold and is fiercely protective of his younger brother Rodney.
Rodney Trotter
Rodney Trotter, Del Boy’s younger brother, is a lovable and somewhat naive character. He often finds himself caught up in Del Boy’s schemes, but his good nature and desire to do the right thing shine through. Rodney dreams of finding true love and a better life, and he is often the voice of reason in the Trotter family.
Other notable characters in “Only Fools and Horses” include Grandad, Del Boy and Rodney’s elderly grandfather with a mischievous streak; Trigger, Del Boy’s dim-witted friend with a knack for saying the wrong thing; and Boycie and Marlene, the snobby neighbors who often provide comedic relief. Together, these characters create a dynamic and hilarious ensemble that has entertained audiences for years.
Del Boy’s claim to the everlasting broom
In the popular TV show “Only Fools and Horses,” one of the recurring jokes revolves around Del Boy’s claim to owning the everlasting broom. This concept is introduced in the episode titled “Heroes and Villains,” which originally aired on November 25, 1990.
In this episode, Del Boy, played by actor David Jason, comes across a street sweeper named Trigger, who claims that he has been using the same broom for 20 years. Trigger argues that although he has replaced the handle 17 times and the brush 14 times, it is still the same broom. Del Boy, known for always looking for an opportunity to make money, sees potential in Trigger’s claim and decides to turn it into a business venture.
Del Boy convinces Trigger to sell him the broom for a significant amount of money, with the promise that he will find a buyer for it. Del Boy enthusiastically markets it as the “everlasting broom” and sets up a stall in Peckham to sell it. He creates a catchy slogan, “You’ll never have to buy another broom again!” and manages to attract a crowd of curious onlookers.
However, as the episode progresses, it becomes clear that Del Boy’s claim to the everlasting broom is nothing more than a clever marketing ploy. The audience soon discovers that the broom has been completely replaced, with only the original handle and brush left. Despite this, Del Boy remains convinced that he can sell it as the genuine article.
This storyline showcases Del Boy’s characteristic charm and ability to hustle his way out of any situation. It also highlights the absurdity and humor of his claims, as well as his determination to make a profit. Ultimately, Del Boy’s claim to the everlasting broom serves as a humorous subplot in the larger narrative of “Only Fools and Horses,” adding to the show’s overall comedic appeal.
Trigger’s Ownership of the Broom
Trigger, a character in the popular British sitcom “Only Fools and Horses,” is famously known for his ownership of the everlasting broom. The broom is a running joke throughout the show as Trigger claims to have owned it for a significant amount of time, leading to the question of whether it is still the same broom.
Trigger’s broom is said to have had 17 new heads and 14 new handles over the years. This raises the philosophical question of what constitutes the identity of an object. Despite the changes, Trigger insists that it is still the same broom and sees no issue with its ever-changing parts.
This ongoing gag showcases Trigger’s character and his unique perspective on life. He is known for his simple-mindedness and often unintentional comedic actions and remarks. Trigger’s ownership of the broom becomes a symbol of his quirky personality and his tendency to hold onto things despite their constant transformation.
Throughout the show, Trigger’s broom represents the theme of change and the idea that even with numerous replacements, something can still be considered the same. The broom serves as a metaphor for life itself, where everything is subject to alteration, yet there can still be a sense of continuity and identity.
In conclusion, Trigger’s ownership of the everlasting broom in “Only Fools and Horses” showcases his character’s unique perspective on objects and change. The ongoing joke surrounding the broom highlights Trigger’s simple-mindedness and adds to the humor of the show. Despite its ever-changing parts, the broom remains a symbol of continuity and identity, reflecting the larger theme of change in the series.
