Hocus Pocus

Mayors pick up right where they left off

CAHABA, AL - "Hocus pocus" is a reference to the actions of magicians, often as the stereotypical magic words spoken when bringing about some sort of sudden change. It was once a common term for a magician, juggler, or other similar entertainers. In extended usage, the term is often used (pejoratively) to describe irrational human activities that appear to depend on magic. The earliest known use in the English language on magic, or what was then known as legerdemain (sleight of hand) was published anonymously in 1635 under the title of Hocus Pocus Junior: The Anatomie of Legerdemain. Further research suggests that "Hocus Pocus" was the stage name of a well-known magician of the era, thought to be William Vincent, who is recorded as having been granted a license to perform magic in England back in 1619. The origins of the term remain obscure. The most popular conjecture is that it is a garbled Latin religious phrase, or some form of "dog" Latin. Some have associated it with similar-sounding fictional, mythical, or legendary names. Others suggest it is merely a combination of nonsense words. The BDFL leans towards Mr. Vincent and his license to practice magic as the orgin of this phrase. In Week 2 of the BDFL, the Mayors used some of their own patented "hocus pocus" on Monday Night Football (MNF) to stop the Bandits cold in their tracks, 45-18. The defending BDFL champs have picked up right where they left off in 2021 and are now on top of the BDFL heap (67 total points) through the first two weeks of the season.

Do You Believe In Magic? by The Lovin' Spoonful (1965)