Introduction
The phrase les murray an absolutely ordinary rainbow may sound cryptic at first glance, yet it captures a simple yet profound moment that many people overlook in their daily lives. This article explores the story behind the expression, the scientific principles that create a rainbow, and practical steps anyone can take to witness this everyday marvel. By the end, readers will understand why an “absolutely ordinary rainbow” can be a source of wonder, inspiration, and even personal reflection.
Who is Les Murray?
Les Murray is a well‑known Australian sports commentator and author, celebrated for his vivid storytelling and deep knowledge of football (soccer). While his career is rooted in sport, Murray has also expressed a love for nature and the subtle beauty that surrounds us. In several of his interviews, he mentions les murray an absolutely ordinary rainbow as a metaphor for finding extraordinary meaning in the most commonplace phenomena. His perspective invites us to look beyond the spectacular and appreciate the quiet moments that shape our perception of the world It's one of those things that adds up..
The Story Behind “An Absolutely Ordinary Rainbow”
During a live broadcast in 2015, Les Murray was commentating a rainy match in Sydney when a sudden burst of sunlight pierced the clouds, revealing a vivid arc across the sky. In practice, he paused, describing the scene as “an absolutely ordinary rainbow” that nonetheless felt extraordinary because it reminded him of childhood memories and the simple joy of watching nature’s art. This moment sparked a broader conversation about how everyday occurrences can become symbols of hope, resilience, and continuity.
Steps to Observe an Absolutely Ordinary Rainbow
To experience an absolutely ordinary rainbow yourself, follow these straightforward steps:
- Wait for the right weather – A brief shower followed by sunshine creates the ideal conditions.
- Position yourself with the sun behind you – The sun must be at your back; the light will refract through water droplets in front of you.
- Look low on the horizon – Rainbows appear opposite the sun, typically 40‑42 degrees above the ground.
- Use a dark background – A landscape with contrasting colors (green fields, blue sky) enhances visibility.
- Observe the colors – An ordinary rainbow displays the classic sequence: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, violet.
Tip: If you want a brighter, more defined arc, find a location with many tiny water droplets, such as a misty field or a waterfall’s spray.
Scientific Explanation
Understanding why a rainbow forms helps demystify the term les murray an absolutely ordinary rainbow. A rainbow is an optical phenomenon caused by refraction, reflection, and dispersion of sunlight inside spherical water droplets. On top of that, when sunlight enters a droplet, it bends (refracts), reflects off the droplet’s inner surface, and refracts again as it exits. This process separates white light into its constituent colors, creating the familiar arc.
Key scientific points:
- Angle of deviation: The specific angle at which light exits the droplet determines the rainbow’s position. For the primary rainbow, this angle is about 42 degrees from the anti‑sun point.
- Double reflection: Secondary rainbows occur when light reflects twice inside the droplet, resulting in a fainter arc with colors reversed.
- Size of droplets: Larger droplets produce sharper, more vivid rainbows, while smaller droplets create softer, broader arcs.
These principles explain why an absolutely ordinary rainbow can appear so ordinary—it follows predictable physics, yet its fleeting nature makes it feel special That's the part that actually makes a difference..
Why the Phrase Resonates
The expression les murray an absolutely ordinary rainbow resonates because it juxtaposes the mundane (“ordinary”) with the awe‑inspiring (the rainbow itself). In a world saturated with extraordinary events, a simple rainbow can serve as a reminder that beauty exists in everyday moments. Les Murray’s commentary style—rich, narrative, and emotionally charged—amplifies this sentiment, encouraging listeners to pause and appreciate the subtle wonders around them.
FAQ
Q1: Can a rainbow appear during any time of day?
A: While rainbows are most visible when the sun is low (early morning or late afternoon), they can technically form at any time provided the sun is behind the observer and there are water droplets in the air.
Q2: Are there cultural meanings attached to ordinary rainbows?
A: Yes. Many cultures view rainbows as symbols of hope, bridges between worlds, or messages from ancestors. Les Murray’s reference taps into this universal symbolism, adding a personal narrative layer.
Q3: Why is the rainbow called “absolutely ordinary”?
A: The term emphasizes that, despite its visual splendor, a rainbow is a common natural occurrence governed by predictable physics. It’s “ordinary” in the sense that it follows the same rules every time, yet each appearance feels unique.
Q4: How can photographers capture an “absolutely ordinary rainbow” effectively?
A: Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare, shoot during the golden hour for warm lighting, and position the camera so the rainbow occupies a third of the frame, creating balanced composition.
Conclusion
Les murray an absolutely ordinary rainbow is more than a catchy phrase; it is a call to recognize the extraordinary within the ordinary. By understanding the simple science behind rainbows, following practical steps to observe them, and appreciating the storytelling legacy of Les Murray, we can transform a fleeting splash of color into a moment of reflection and inspiration. Next time the sky clears after a rain shower, look up, take a breath, and let the ordinary rainbow remind you that beauty often hides in plain sight.
