Ask Ephraim

As seasoned followers of The St Ivean know, Ephraim appeared frequently on earlier blogs, dispensing opinion, knowledge, advice, folklore and myth for the price of a pint or two. So this fount of all wisdom has been invited back to answer any questions you care to put to him. His mailbox will soon be full - so get your questions in soon.

From: A St Ivean
St Ives, Cornwall

Dear Ephraim

When I tie my shoe laces on a particular pair of shoes, I'm sure I do it in exactly the same way with both shoes. Why, then, do the laces of the right shoe always eventually unravel and rarely the left shoe? (In case it's relevant, I'm right-handed).

An unusual question which I passed on to the Guardian newspaper's Notes & Queries feature. A reader suggested this explanation:

I expect if you're right-handed, you're also right-footed, and lead with your right leg when walking, kicking, etc. I bet it gets a fair bit more action than your left and forces the laces apart.
Ross, Manchester

I hope this helps with your question. I'll keep you informed of any other explanations.

Thank you for contacting The St Ivean.