Paul Gittos's definitions

light the blue paper

To go to bed. The expression comes from the instructions to users of firecrackers -- "light the blue paper and retire immediately" meaning to stand well clear once the wick of the firecracker is lit to avoid being hurt by the ensuing explosion.

Yawning, Peter said, "It's after eleven, time to light the blue paper."

by Paul Gittos March 15, 2008