Have you noticed people are saying…“What?… A New Catch Phrase.

Reactions to Boston Massachusetts Magician Joe Ferranti

I don’t know how “catch words and phrases” get into our vocabulary. Nevertheless, I’m just an observer. Furthermore, when performing Strolling Magic at events, I have the good fortune to meet lots of new people. In particular, the younger ones keep me updated in the current vernacular. Hence, lately I am hearing a new reaction to the magic moment with the word, “What!” which is a wonderful reaction. If you happen to know who started it, kindly drop me a line. After all, I’m just a little curious.

Do you remember when people said, “in the future,” or “from now on”. We have replaced these workhorse phrases with… wait for it, “Going forward”. Who started this? From now on?

Back in my working days, I started getting memos saying, “Going forward, we will do this or that…” The uncreative writer of the memo was just following a trend, trying to sound intelligent.

Obscure origins of popular phrases

I believe President Obama came up with, “A teachable moment.” Let me know if I am wrong. This is a great phrase to use every time somebody does something stupid. It’s not a bad thing if it’s a “teachable moment.”

Returning to my initial observation, the exclamation of “What!” during moments of magical surprise has become quite popular. It’s a reaction that carries an air of wonder and adds to the enchantment of the experience. Only time will tell how long this phrase will endure and whether it will become a lasting part of our lexicon. But for now, let’s appreciate audience reaction. Even if it’s just one word. WHAT!

Until the next linguistic phenomenon…anyone care to guess?

Joe Ferranti

Massachusetts Magician