Back
W. A. Rose: A Little Book of Welsh Proverbs (Little Welsh Bookshelf) (Hardcover, 1996, Appletree Press (UK)) 4 stars

Gorau prinder, prinder geiriau. The best economy, economy of words.

4 stars

I am very fond of quotations when they encapsulate something true or inspiring.

'Proverbs crystallise the most common of human judgements and experiences. As a result, the same proverb can occur in many different languages, since the essentials of human needs remain the same across the globe. But each different society gives its proverbs a tincture of their own. This is very true of Celtic society, with its emphasis on honour, hospitality, courage, and its taste for the poetic.' ― Rose W. A., ‘Introduction’, Appletree Press , 1996, ISBN:978-0-86281-624-7, p.3

This little book contains proverbs in Welsh with English translation. It is also charmingly illustrated.

Some proverbs are understandable from their translation :

Deuparth gwaith ei ddechrau. A job started is two parts done. ― Rose W. A., A Little Book of Welsh Proverbs, Appletree Press , 1996, ISBN:978-0-86281-624-7, p.47

Others could possibly do with more explanation, e.g.

Godrir buwch o'i phen. A cow is milked from its head. ― Rose W. A., A Little Book of Welsh Proverbs, Appletree Press , 1996, ISBN:978-0-86281-624-7, p.51

Sometimes the English translation doesn't seem enough to convey the meaning.

All in all, though, a very nice small volume.