Metaphorigins

I spiral through suggested origin stories to the expression "piece of cake" and other cake related idioms, and find an ugly beginning to a seemingly innocent saying. I also speak about the origin to The Nobel Prize, consider its drawbacks and how it can be changed to adapt to the reality of science research. Check out the references and transcript to this episode here: https://www.kjbmercurio.com/episode/004.

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I dive deep into the expression "the last straw" to correct its misuse and determine its connection to straws, feathers, camels and horses. I also join the mainstream media and talk about COVID-19, juxtaposing interviews between a field expert and a scientific personality. Check out the references and transcript to this episode here: https://www.kjbmercurio.com/episode/003.

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I navigate through various origin stories to the expression "it's raining cats and dogs" to find the absurd truth of its beginning. I also discuss the advantages and disadvantages over the use of metaphor to describe complex scientific topics in a fun and innovative way. Check out the references and transcript to this episode here: https://www.kjbmercurio.com/episode/002.

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I explore the origin of the expression "drinking the Kool-Aid", why it is insensitive and actually factually incorrect. I also comment on a recent Slate article that builds on being aware of language when communicating science to the public and those in power. Check out the references and transcript to this episode here: https://www.kjbmercurio.com/episode/001.

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My hobby, I’ve come to realize, is understanding. Understanding whatever it is I don’t understand. That’s why I, Kevin Mercurio, currently a MSc. student in Biochemistry at the University of Ottawa, pursued science; to develop the skills required to fully grasp something; an idea, a process, an effect after a cause. We use the art of communication to share ideas and develop an understanding. Communication is the most fascinating topic, expanding over every interesting topic there is. You communicate through writing, through speaking, through body movements, through social media. And you can be clear, direct, ambiguous, foreshadowing, metaphorical, expressive, anecdotal… Even saying or doing nothing is communicating something in a particular situation. There are so many varieties of how you can choose to communicate information. I often use idioms, metaphors or smiles to communicate some idea in a unique way.  But expressions are my favourite way of communicating information. They’re usually innovative and mentally work you at a subconscious level. That’s where this podcast comes in. I want to share my love of communication with you all and expand how we can share information. How we can discuss complex topics in a way that’s interesting and informative, just like science should be. And perhaps if it were more interesting and informative, everyone would love science as much as I do. Check out the references and transcript to this episode here: https://www.kjbmercurio.com/episode/000.

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