We use some very descriptive, albeit strange, phrases when we talk about our problems. Severe coughing can be, "coughing up a lung." Extreme tiredness is, "dog tired." Being very sleepy is, "falling asleep, standing up." The list could nearly go on forever. For some reason, we love to not only exaggerate, but provide ridiculous extremes. Have you ever seen someone "sleep like a log?" ... that is, sleeping so heavily they're hard to wake up.
There's a deep reason we use these phrases, it's because we want other people to understand not only the physical issues but the associated emotions. We want others to experience the same thing, and ridiculously over-the-top phrases help that happen. Also, I believe there's a deep sense of playfulness in all our languages. We love to laugh, to have fun, to be silly.
So, next time you find yourself explaining that you're hungry enough to "eat a horse," just smile and acknowledge the exaggeration. The people you're talking with understand what you mean, and won't fault you for the livid imagery. I doubt anyone will take you completely seriously, and if they do then they don't possess a sense of humor. I think everyone should work on laughing, and seek out opportunities to exercise the talent. Just don't laugh yourself to death...
- M
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