Pen is broken Please use finger
The image depicts an electronic payment terminal at a checkout, and it includes a small screen with the text "PLEASE SWIPE CARD" indicating that a customer is prompted to swipe their payment card to proceed with the transaction. A card reader is visible underneath the screen, and there are colored buttons indicating different functions, such as cancellation or confirmation of the payment.
A hand-written sign has been attached to the top of the terminal using what seems to be white adhesive tape. The sign appears to be written on a piece of cardboard, and it bears the message "Penis broken Please use finger," which upon first glance, seems to be a misspelling of the word "Pen" in an attempt to communicate that the pen for signing receipts is not functioning.
The misspelling creates a comic effect, transforming an otherwise mundane notice into a humorous one. The word "Penis," referring to the male reproductive organ, is inadvertently used instead of "Pen," leading to an absurd statement in the context of a payment terminal.
The humor arises from the incongruity of the message in the context—it is unexpected and, to many, might be considered mildly inappropriate for the setting. This sort of humor is often referred to as "bathroom humor" or "toilet humor," which derives amusement from bodily functions and human sexuality.
Additionally, the second part of the message, "Please use finger," can be read in a way that further emphasizes the sexual innuendo, adding to the comedic effect. Without context, the instruction seems to follow on from the mistaken word, which can lead to further amusement or embarrassment, depending on the reader.
The image might be funny to people who appreciate the simple mistake leading to an unintended double entendre. It plays on the natural human tendency to find humor in surprising errors and misunderstandings, as well as the joy of shared jokes about typically taboo subjects made comical by virtue of being brought up in an unintended and harmless way. Pen is broken Please use finger
