Everyone knows the expression “Kiss me I’m Irish”. But do you know the other phrase “Pinch me I’m Irish”? This phrase, regularly used on Saint Patrick’s Day, is a reference to an ancient tradition of pinching people not dressed in green on the feast day. Explanations of a practice that is currently falling into disuse.
A leprechaun – © ratatosk
Ireland has always been a country steeped in tradition, religious beliefs and folklore. The expression“Pinch me, I’m Irish“ has its origins in Irish folk tales and legends, particularly those featuring leprechauns.
Back in the day, it was considered a good idea to wear green on St. Patrick’s Day. A tribute to the Saint who helped evangelize Ireland in the 5th century… But it was also, according to belief, to protect itself from leprechauns!
After all, these mischievous creatures are the stuff of Irish folklore! With their carefully hidden cauldron of gold, their taste for drink and their grumpy disposition, leprechauns are the first to play tricks on humans!
The Irish were also convinced that wearing green would make them invisible to these mischievous creatures. It’s a great way to protect yourself and avoid their bad jokes!
It was also traditional for anyone not wearing green on March 17 to be copiously pinched by other Irish people, as a sign of teasing. It’s a way of letting them know that they’re exposed to all the leprechaun’s mischief and overflowing imagination when it comes to pranks!
Over the centuries, this practice has become increasingly popular, right up to the present day… More a joke than a true belief, it was a way of bringing the Irish together under the banner of humor and tradition.
Although Ireland remains deeply attached to its folklore, it would seem that the tradition of “Pinch me I’m Irish” is becoming less and less popular with native Irish.
Less powerful than a “Kiss me I’m Irish”, this tradition is increasingly contested, following numerous abuses in recent years. Indeed, many foreign travelers have been known to ruthlessly pinch unknown Irishmen in the streets, sometimes provoking surprise and incomprehension (and sometimes pain).
No offence intended, but tradition often seems to be misunderstood. This is due in part to a contradictory slogan: “Pinch me, I’m Irish”, which seems to invite anyone with Irish blood to pinch themselves…
It’s more a case of nabbing people who aren’t wearing green… and only on St Patrick’s Day (March 17)!
That’s why this expression seems to be falling into disuse. Misunderstood, often diverted from its original meaning by clumsy wording, it seems less appropriate than other traditions that take place on the same feast day.
Nevertheless, the expression is still sometimes used. It can even be found in St. Patrick’s Day merchandising, on T-shirts, caps, plush toys etc… but the expression Kiss me I’m Irish seems to have supplanted it.
Although less widely used, it is still very dear to the Irish, who often practice it in closed circles, whether with family or friends. It remains a way of remembering ancient pagan traditions, while teasing loved ones with an affectionate gesture, with the usual Irish sense of humor. Another way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, but beware: only practice with Irish people you know, and only if they’re in a joking mood!
And above all: don’t pinch too hard!
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