I have uttered this phrase on occasion without really thinking about it. That is until someone said they had never heard it before, which made me wonder where I had heard it. I grew up hearing it said on especially hot days, but I cannot track it back to one person. I know that it refers to the 6th circle of hell in Dante's Inferno, but it has been years since I read it and I do not remember what that level was. After a little research I found that this circle contains the City of Dis. On the plain outside the city are red hot iron tombs where the heretics dwell. These shades will never know respite from the flames. Knowing that nugget of information I understand how the phrase came into use.
Since the heat index will be between 110-115 degrees, I think saying it is hotter than the sixth shades of hell is entirely appropriate today. All I can say is thank God for AC and don't forget to water you maters, pets, and old people! Seriously folks stay cool!
Since the heat index will be between 110-115 degrees, I think saying it is hotter than the sixth shades of hell is entirely appropriate today. All I can say is thank God for AC and don't forget to water you maters, pets, and old people! Seriously folks stay cool!
