Chrysti the Wordsmith > Radio Scripts

Many of our common expressions have outlived the circumstances inspiring their coinage. For example, beat around the bush, referring to indirect or evasive conversation, arose from 14th and 15th century fowling, when "beaters" flushed game birds from their hiding places, so that hunters could capture the birds in flight. Those who "beat the bushes" never engaged in the actual hunt. All balled up, "confused, disoriented," alludes to the packed balls of sticky snow on horses' feet which caused the animals to stumble and fall, sending riders and sledges into disarray.

In the limelight, or "in the center of public attention" is also a phrase surviving its original useage. In 1826, Scottish engineer and inventor Thomas Drummond devised the "Drummond light" to illuminate lighthouses. His invention utilized flame directed against a block of calcium oxide, or lime, as well a lens to focus the light. The illumination resulting from this admixture was white, bright, and intense.

Drummond's technology was adapted for theatrical lighting in the mid 1800's, and, before the advent of electricity, was the most effective method for illuminating onstage actors. Drummond's calcium oxide or "lime" light threw performers into the full glare of audience scrutiny. Though this technology became obsolete with the invention of arc and klieg lights, we carry the expression in the limelight with us into the 21st century.

Radio Script > Limelight