Are you there, Moriarty?

Are You There, Moriarty? is a parlor game that has been played for many decades, often associated with Victorian entertainment but persisting into modern times as a humorous and light-hearted duel of wits and reflexes. The game is named after Professor Moriarty, a famous antagonist from the Sherlock Holmes stories by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Despite the name, the game has no direct connection to the literary character, instead using the evocative name to suggest a duel of minds or perhaps to capitalize on the popularity of the Sherlock Holmes series.

Gameplay

The basic premise of Are You There, Moriarty? involves two participants, who are typically blindfolded, lying face down on the floor opposite each other. They each hold one end of a rolled-up newspaper or a similar light object that serves as a make-shift weapon. The game begins when one player asks, "Are you there, Moriarty?" to which the other player must respond, "Yes." Upon the response, the questioner attempts to gently hit the respondent on the head with the newspaper, while the respondent tries to evade the blow by moving their head. The roles then switch, and the game continues in this manner. The game is played in a spirit of fun, with the emphasis on the auditory cues and the challenge of anticipating the opponent's actions.

Variations

Over the years, various adaptations and rules have been added to Are You There, Moriarty? to enhance its enjoyment or adapt it for different groups. Some variations include using different objects for the duel, incorporating penalties for excessive force, or adding elements of strategy such as feints or delayed responses. Despite these variations, the core elements of the game—auditory cues, physical dexterity, and a sense of humor—remain unchanged.

Cultural Significance

Are You There, Moriarty? is often cited as an example of a traditional game that has survived the transition from Victorian parlor entertainment to modern party game. Its simplicity, requiring no special equipment or extensive setup, and its emphasis on social interaction and physical comedy, have contributed to its longevity. The game also serves as a cultural artifact, reflecting the humor and social customs of the times in which it has been played.

In Popular Culture

While Are You There, Moriarty? may not have the widespread recognition of some other games, it occasionally appears in literature, film, and television, often as a comedic element or as a nod to enthusiasts of historical or literary trivia. Its association with Sherlock Holmes, albeit tangential, adds to its charm and appeal for fans of the detective genre.

See Also

• Parlor game
• Victorian era
• Sherlock Holmes
• Professor Moriarty