It is 1704 John Dennis is a successful literary critic in London and has recently inherited
a small fortune so that he doesn't have to do the boring stuff any more and he can dedicate
himself to his real passion in life writing and producing plays. Follow the dream, follow
the dream. He says to himself. His new play Appius and Virginia
is about to premiere in London's Drury Lane theatre in London's West End. During the play there's a scene that takes place
during a storm and for this scene John has invented a thunder
machine. So that he can have the real sound of thunder
He is very proud of his thunder machine. Unfortunately, his play is not a success
and closes after just a few performances. John is sad but philosophical.
Oh well! maybe I'll have better luck next time. The Management of the Drury Lane theatre
next production is Macbeth by William Shakespeare. John Dennis is still disappointed about his
own play but loves Shakespeare and so goes with the other theatre lovers to watch the
play. Now those of you who know Macbeth well will be aware that in this play there is also
a scene which takes place during a storm. And yes, you can hear thunder, and yes,
they are using John Dennis's thunder machine. John Dennis is furious
after the play he goes around town exclaiming. Damn them! They will not let my play run but
they steal my thunder
As a result of this story we get the common English expression "to steal one's thunder"
What it means today is Is to do something that takes the attention or praise away from
somebody else It's easier if I give some examples.
I made some cookies for the party but Terri stole my thunder with her black forest gateau.
I was going to make a big announcement at the meeting
but it was published on our website half an hour before and that stole my thunder.
She was showing off her second prize but when Linda won the gold medal it kind of stole her thunder.
So there you are a common and useful English
expression with and interesting history. Thank you for watching more English language videos
coming soon.