Near a misty stream in Ireland in the hollow
of a tree
Live mystical, magical leprechauns who are
clever as can be
With their pointed ears, and turned up toes
and little coats of green
The leprechauns busily make their shoes and
try hard not to be seen.
Only those who really believe have seen these
little elves
And if we are all believers
We can surely see for ourselves.
(Irish Blessing)
The word leprechaun is derived from a mixture
of two names, "luchorpan" which means "little body" and a word which means
"one-shoemaker." The leprechaun is a symbol of St. Patrick's Day
and is portrayed as a smiling, merry little elf who possess a hidden pot
of gold. If caught, the leprechaun can be forced into telling where
his treasure is. In order to gain his treasure, you must never take
your eyes of him for even one second or he will vanish and his treasure
will not be found. They are said to be the torment of those hunting their
gold because of their shannigans and frolicsome ways.
Leprechaun's are often called Irish faries
or tiny elf-like creatures who live in the forest of Ireland. Apparently
they look like old men who are approximately no taller than two feet.
They are often dressed as a shoemaker, with a tall cocked and leather apron.
As the legend goes they are unapproachable and hostile, living alone, making
shoes and brogues and hiding their pots of gold. Often they are portrayed
with their pot of gold often seen at the end of a rainbow. They are thought
to be always grouchy, disreputable, and very crafty.
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