What Irish Proverbs Tell Us About Ourselves

Provides an exploration of the psychology of Irish proverbs. This book examines Irish wisdom about food, drink, weather, money, markets, land, health, happiness, love, marriage and death. It is useful for students of Irish society, people who share a love of folklore, and those interested in learning about the significance of Irish proverbs.

What can we learn from the folk wisdom of our ancestors? For centuries, Irish proverbs or seanfhocail have provided memorable insights into everyday experiences such as love, marriage, happiness and death. In doing so, they give us a unique insight into human nature as well as an understanding of the lives and outlook of our forebears. But is such "timeless wisdom" still relevant in the modern world - or merely the dying echo of a bygone era? In this fascinating book, Aidan Moran and Michael O'Connell reflect on this question and provide a systematic exploration of the psychology of Irish proverbs. In particular, the authors examine a wealth of Irish wisdom about food, drink, weather, money, markets, land, health, happiness, love, marriage and death - all the essentials of life! Thoroughly researched and written in a lively, accessible style, the book is enriched by a selection of beautiful photographs. Often provocative, sometimes witty but never dull, these proverbs will encourage you to slow down and look at the world in a different way. This book is an essential purchase for students of Irish society, people who share a love of folklore, and anyone who is interested in learning more about the meaning and significance of Irish proverbs.