Tuesday, September 22, 2009

Do You Know the United States Better Than Al Franken?

I'm a person that enjoys seeking to master essentially useless skills that have the slight potential to impress friends. I've taught myself how to juggle, can solve a Rubik's Cube and I'm close to being able to do 100 push-ups in a row. When you don't have looks, talent, or humor, you've got to have something, right?

Which brings me to Senator Al Franken. Franken, once known as a bit player on Saturday Night Live and now a U.S. Senator from Minnesota, possesses a talent that I find extremely impressive. In less than two minutes, Franken can draw the United States...by free hand...from memory. And not just the outline of the country but each of the 48 contiguous states.

The following video clip is taken from over twenty years ago on the David Letterman show. You'll need to pick it up at the 6:35 mark to see Franken's feat. If the video player doesn't show up click here.

1 comment:

J. Hill said...

That was incredible. I still don't know if he should be senator, but wow!