New Times,
New Thinking.

  1. Science & Tech
31 January 2024

The scientific reason why January lasts forever

The feeling that it is the longest month, on the surface at least, makes no sense.

By Jason Murugesu

Today is the last day of January. Or for some of you on Twitter – it is Day 74 of January. January has taken its sweet time. Roz Chast’s cartoon for The New Yorker depicts what we all in our hearts know to be true. January is the longest month of the year.

This feeling, however, on the surface at least makes no sense. Several months in the year have 31 days in them. If any month should be made fun of for how long it lasts, it should be February. WTF is a leap year anyway? 

Subscribe to The New Statesman today from only £8.99 per month
Content from our partners
Towards an NHS fit for the future
How drones can revolutionise UK public services
Chelsea Valentine Q&A: “Embrace the learning process and develop your skills”
Topics in this article : ,