01/08/2024

‘is fánach an áit a bhfaighfeá gliomach’ is an Irish expression which literally means ‘It’s an odd place to find a lobster’ - but it would be used in the same way as we might say ‘fancy seeing you here’, or ‘you never know who you might meet’- but there’s every chance of bumping into a lobster on our rambles along the coast - t’is the season, and the pots are out. The Donegal coast has always yielded plenty of lovely lobster- so much so that it used to be a sign of poverty if lobster was for dinner. MaryAnn Allingham from Ballyshannon (aunt of the poet William) wrote about hiding lobster from the neighbours in case they would be judged- that was about 1828 - but times have changed, and now a fresh Donegal lobster indicates impeccable taste and a delicious meal. We rambled out along Magheraroarty, and were inspired by the pot-pyramids, symbols of the tradition, craft, bravery, tragedy, skill and pragmatism of the local fishing community. It’s a tough summer for the men and women who bring the glíomach to our tables - go raibh maith agaibh!
#rambles #studyabroadireland #findmyireland #lobster #gaeilge #donegal