Expressions of well-wishing often carry unique cultural nuances, and two such intriguing phrases are ‘in bocca al lupo’ in Italian and ‘break a leg’ in English, used to wish good luck in crucial moments. These idiomatic expressions, shrouded in historical mystery, have given rise to various theories regarding their origin and meaning. From symbolic connections to wolves in diverse cultures to theatrical interpretations, the roots of ‘in bocca al lupo’ and ‘break a leg’ delve into a tapestry of linguistic and cultural influences. So with this exploration we will try to unravel the layers of this expressive phrase, examining its diverse theories and drawing parallels with similar expressions, offering a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of language, tradition, and the performing arts.
Let’s start by saying that the expression in bocca al lupo is an Italian idiomatic phrase used to wish someone good luck, especially in important situations like auditions or exams. Its origin is not entirely clear, but there are various hypotheses about its meaning.
One of the most common explanations is linked to the fact that, traditionally, the wolf was considered an animal associated with luck and prosperity in many cultures. However, the complete expression is ‘in bocca al lupo, crepi il lupo’ (meaning ‘may the wolf croak’), suggesting a desire to overcome the danger or obstacle represented by the wolf.
In recent years, the hypothesis has circulated widely (especially on the web) that the expression in bocca al lupo actually refers to the idea of she-wolves carrying their cubs in their mouths to move them without risks. Therefore, by saying in bocca al lupo, the wish would imply staying protected and safe, much like a wolf cub in the mother’s mouth.
Another interpretation is that the expression derives from the theatrical world. It is said that in ancient theaters, actors would enter or exit through a trapdoor shaped like a wolf’s mouth. Wishing someone in bocca al lupo might have been a metaphorical way to wish a good show or performance on stage.
Staying on the topic of theater, it’s interesting to note how two seemingly different expressions actually share a common origin: the theater.
In fact, in English, to wish good luck (a phrase that ironically may bring a bit of bad luck for the superstitious) it is better to use the expression break a leg.
It’s clear that the expression itself is not very cheerful as it doesn’t seem to be a good omen. So why, then, do we wish someone well by hoping they break a leg?
Even for the English version, there is no single answer. As with any idiomatic expression, there are various theories about the origin of this saying, and all of them are plausible. Regarding break a leg, we can consider multiple versions, but there are a couple that seem more likely…
Let’s start by mentioning that Break a Leg is also a wish offered when someone is about to face a challenge, particularly in the world of entertainment, for those who are going to perform in a show, play, or concert. The literal translation is, of course, different, and it literally means ‘may you break a leg.’ Understandably, when put this way, it doesn’t sound like a pleasant wish.
But why this particular expression? Originally, this idiomatic expression was used to encourage actors when they had to audition for a role in the cast, which, as you may know, is the group of actors hired for a theatrical performance or a film.
So, why break a leg? The explanation is tied to a play on words involving the term ‘cast.’ As mentioned, ‘cast’ is the group of actors selected for a performance, but in English, ‘cast’ also indicates the plaster cast applied when you break a leg (in italian, gesso).
Therefore, when you break a leg, you end up in the ‘cast’ (plaster cast), and consequently, wishing someone to break a leg might be seen as a humorous way to wish them entry into the theatrical cast. It’s a clever play on words, leveraging the double meaning of the word ‘cast.’
But there is a second theory about the origin of break a leg…
We are in the 16th century in the Shakespearean tradition of theater, where it was said that when an actor delivered a good theatrical performance, the less affluent people, the poorer ones in short, would drool on the theater stage as much as they were excited and appreciated the theatrical performance.
Obviously, this would make the stage slippery, and right there the actor could slip and break a leg. So, wishing an actor to break a leg means wishing them to be on a slippery stage due to the drool spilled by the delighted audience.
Through these examples, we have been able to observe how two entirely different idiomatic phrases, each with completely different metaphors, can still be connected by a common thread, which is that of the arts. Needless to say, it is always beautiful and fascinating to see how language can evolve over time and space, using different words yet still managing to convey a common message. In this case, that message coincides with a wish for victory or success.
Ig – @fairness_mag
