NINE DAYS’ WONDER

A phrase used to indicate any phenomenon that is short-lived in its wondrous appeal, it is slightly demeaning in its verbal effect. It is normally used to describe an event or an act by persons, particularly ones that leave little to no impression in public memory.

Its origin is most popularly stated to be Elizabethan clown actor William Kemp’s skit recorded in 17th century Norwich town council records. Kemp is said to have achieved the feat of dancing his way from London to Norwich in nine days, a feat for which he received a remunerative prize from the town council.

However, while Kemp may have twinkled his toes down the 100 miles the actual origin is traced back to a collection of Old English songs, Harley Lyrics, scripted in 1340AD. However it was in archaic form much unlike its common use today. The earliest use of the phrase in its contemporary form can be found it George Herbert’s poem The Temple, dated 1633.

In more recent usage the phrase is picked up by many self-fashioned musicians in a deliberate parody of pop culture. Ironically, most of these musicians have had successful careers lasting up to many years.

This is a fashionable way of conveying to a friend that he need not worry about of nasty rumours that someone might be spreading about him, for example “Don’t worry Rajesh, such rumours are a nine days’ wonder anyway. Nobody is going to remember it once school reopens.”