Gàidhlig / English
Cha Truagh Leam Cù is Marag ma Amhaich.

Cha Truagh Leam Cù is Marag ma Amhaich.

Posted by Kate on 29th January 2015

We have a cunning wee proverb for you, for anyone who is feeling wily this week: “cha truagh leam cù is marag ma amhaich.”  or “I pity not a dog with a pudding around his neck.” You could use this to describe someone who has enough in their life, but is not satisfied. This proverb can be found in Caraid nan Gàidheal, pp. 399-405, where there is a letter from Finlay the Piper about the community in Glen Dessary who had come together on New Year’s Day. They were celebrating, and the Bailiff said to Big Paddy to finish his broth quickly, so that they might get out to play shinty before the winter sun set. But Paddy advised that the path was icy and slippery at that time of year. He asked him not to be in a rush to head out when they were surrounded by friends and with enough food to keep them all satisfied. They should have been grateful for what they had. Another friend answered gloomily, “I pity you, Paddy,” to which Paddy answered, “Keep your pity! I pity not the dog with a pudding round his neck.”

Cunning indeed! You will find this proverb amongst others in the Collection of Gaelic Proverbs and Familiar Phrases, p. 14.  If you have heard of this proverb, please get in touch on twitter, or facebook.

 

 

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