The bane of Rip Van Winkle's life was Dame Van Winkle. When he had married her she was as sweet tempered as all maids are upon their day But once she'd got him home that shy tongue and gentle smile turned sour, and a tart temper took their place. Times grew worse with Rip as the years of wedded bliss rolled on You know what they say: a sharp tongue is the only tool that grows sharper with constant use.