I suspect that for as long as there has been a calendar to organize the ever-steady cycle of the earth around the sun — maybe even long before — the end of the year has been a time for reflection. And as I look back on 2018, I’m struck by the remarkable creativity and boundless curiosity of our readers and listeners. From the wonder of the words we use, to the minor mysteries hiding in plain sight around us, questions from far and wide steadily filled the Curiosity Desk inbox in 2018.
We’re thankful for that — it’s your curiosity that keeps the Curiosity Desk vibrant and relevant, on-air and online. Below are a few of our favorite stories that were inspired by listener questions this year. While we can’t get to every question, we’re grateful to everyone who reached out with a thought, idea or question in 2018. We hope you’ll keep listening, reading — and keep those questions coming — next year.
1.
Why Are Some Boston Area Convenience Stores Called Spas?
We find out.
2.
A Quest To Answer Listeners' Questions About Some Curious Road Signs
Perhaps it's because so many of WGBH Radio listeners are tuning in while driving that the Curiosity Desk
inbox and
Twitter feed is reliably filled with roadway related questions. This column answers three questions about perplexing roadside signage.
3.
It Is Literally Okay To Use Literally Figuratively. Usually.
This one's fun because you can use it to annoy the linguistic curmudgeons in your life. Yes, it is okay to use the word "literally" figuratively. Well, sometimes. You'll have to read on to find out exactly when.
4.
Why Is There A 'Strand Of DNA' On Massachusetts License Plates?
On Massachusetts license plates, there’s a pattern going vertically down the center of the plate — looks kind of like a double helix. How did it get there? Why is it there? Wonder no longer.
5.
When It Comes To Snowflakes And Popcorn Kernels, Is It True That No Two Are Alike?
The Internet has been a boon to those of us who like to debunk claims that seem too good to be true. So what about the one about no two snowflakes being alike? Is it true, or not?
This column goes into the science.
Do you have questions of your own? We hope you'll share them with us in 2019.
