Tag: old ithaca

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Wit and Self-Reflection The Ithacan sayings are a good example of the local dialect, sense of humor, and quite often are self-sar­castic. The popular philosophy, the daily problems and the way of thinking of the island are also included within the small phrases. Some people love the priest, but others his wife. It’s more difficult [...] Read More

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Old Ithacan Rhymes Some four line rhymes of unknown authors are still in use today in Ithaca. They are about love, marriage, emigration and daily activities.   Four expensive golden crosses are hanging round your neck, everyone kisses the crosses but I kiss your cheek. Your dog barks at me and your husband threatens me, [...] Read More

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Love, Loss, and Legacy: The Enduring Power of Ithacan Song While time has eroded much of Ithaca's rich folk song tradition, a handful of remarkable songs have endured. These surviving gems are considered complete works, showcasing both clever poetic devices and a high degree of musical merit. Often structured as dialogues between two characters, the [...] Read More

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Island Remedies: Incantations and Traditional Healing Life on the island centuries ago was far from modern medicine. With no doctors or pharmacies, islanders relied on tradition. A key element was incantations – special phrases, often prayers, believed to heal ailments like snakebites, burns, or the evil eye. These weren't simple words; islanders used symbolic gestures [...] Read More