Doesn't quite cut the mustard!

I began thinking about the odd phrase "doesn't cut the mustard" and the ridiculousness of stabbing mustard. So! I put it on the list of things to Google, and like most strange expressions was shrouded in interesting theories and people. Firstly, I discovered that the phrase was first recorded by the American writer O. Henry, a native of Greensboro NC.  In his 1902 story The Heart of the West he writes, "I looked around to find a proposition [a woman] that exactly cut the mustard."  O. Henry likened a women to mustard because the spice was often used as the main "attraction" in foods. With this connection, why hasn't Greensboro laid claim to such a popular phrase? New city slogan perhaps? Other theories are that it referenced the military phrase "to pass muster," the adding of vinegar to ground mustard seeds, or the difficulty involved in the actual harvesting of mustard plants.

Finally, I watched all of Downton Abbey Season 2 this weekend--over 12 hours of period drama and British accents. No shame! This show definitely cuts the mustard, especially with its many interesting secrets and scandals. For example, a character saying, "Oh it's nothing," actually means, "You're in deep &^%#!" And nearly every episode has a kiss of passionate betrayal. Love it.


Happy first week of classes everyone! 

-EJS