Definition of a Leprechaun
Field Guide to the Little People
In honor of St. Patrick’s Day, I thought I would share the exact definition of a leprechaun according to the Field Guide to the Little People by Nancy Arrowsmith.
The leprechaun is the Faeries’ shoemaker and goes by various names, depending on what part of Ireland you are in, and they only reside in Ireland. They are called the cluricane in Cork, the lurican in Kerry, lurikeen in Kildare, and lurigadaun in Tipperary. The leprechaun loves tobacco and whiskey; can be smiling and happy one minute, and drunk and depressed the next; and is the ultimate con man. Not even the most clever person has been able to cheat him of his pot of gold. Leprechauns are between 6 and 24 inches high and have light grey skin, wrinkled faces, and bright red noses. They wear three-cornered hats, green jerkins and waistcoats with shiny buttons, leather aprons, long blue stockings, and high-heeled shoes with large silver buckles. They are often seen smoking a pipe while busily hammering on a shoe.
If you happen to find yourself in Ireland, pay special attention around the roots of trees and near castle ruins in quiet, secluded places. You may spot a leprechaun, but just know that he can disappear from sight in the twinkling of an eye.
Happy St. Patrick’s Day!
I think it might be cool just to see one. Sure, I’d love a pot of gold but I’d get more joy out of seeing one. Great article.
I completely agree, Tonya!