When first encountering the imposing Luke Kelly sculpture on Guild Street, one might overhear, as I did, a passerby remark, "Look at him with the big Irish head on him." This comment, imbued with the quintessential Irish humour and self-awareness explored in the context of the phrase, finds a curious resonance in the stylised features of the memorial.
The actual sculpture, unveiled in 2019, is one of two commissioned to honour the legendary Dubliners singer. It's a strikingly large bronze head, its defining feature being a cascade of stylised copper curls representing Kelly's famous red hair, and it is over 2m in height. The artist, Vera Klute, a renowned German-born, Irish-based sculptor, captured a certain intensity in Kelly's expression, which, combined with the exaggerated proportions of the piece, might lend itself to the "big Irish head" observation. This isn't a literal assessment, of course, but rather an affectionate nod to the perceived "Irishness" the sculpture emanates, as often described in the phrase.
It is notable that this particular rendering of Kelly has been subjected to repeated vandalism. Since its unveiling, it has been defaced numerous times, requiring costly repairs and clean-ups. This unfortunate reality speaks to a darker side of contemporary Dublin, a city grappling with social issues that occasionally manifest in acts of senseless destruction. The repeated targeting of a figure so beloved and representative of Irish culture adds another layer to the sculpture's story, transforming it from a simple tribute into a symbol of resilience in the face of adversity.
The "big Irish head" comment, then, takes on a multi-layered meaning when applied to the Guild Street sculpture. It acknowledges the artwork's physical presence, a commanding, oversized head that certainly draws the eye. It also taps into the cultural baggage of the phrase itself, hinting at a stereotypical "Irish look" that the sculpture, with its fiery hair and intense gaze, arguably embodies. Finally, the statue's troubled history of vandalism, coupled with its enduring presence, perhaps lends itself to a metaphorical interpretation of the "big Irish head" as a symbol of strength and perseverance. A statue to honour an Irish icon vandalised and yet still standing.
Klute's portrayal of Luke Kelly, with its distinctive features and imposing size, serves as a visual anchor for the "big Irish head on him" expression, making it more than just a casual remark, but a commentary on art, identity, and the complex social fabric of modern Ireland. It is the juxtaposition of the affectionate, almost teasing nature of the phrase with the powerful, somewhat imposing image of the sculpture that creates a fascinating interplay between language and visual representation.
When I first photographed this in 2019 I overheard someone say look at him with the "big Irish head on him."
Big Irish Head On Him: Exploring a Quirky Irish Expression
The Irish are known for their colourful language, and one expression that has been making the rounds is "big Irish head on him." This phrase, often used with a touch of humour and self-deprecation , has piqued the curiosity of many, including fans of the iconic sitcom Father Ted. This article delves into the meaning, origins, and cultural significance of this expression, exploring its presence in contemporary Irish society and its potential connection to the beloved TV show.
What Does "Big Irish Head on Him" Mean?
While it might seem like a straightforward comment about someone's physical appearance, "big Irish head on him" is more nuanced than that. It typically refers to someone who embodies a stereotypical "Irish look," encompassing various physical characteristics, such as facial features, hair, and even a certain way of carrying oneself. It's a way of recognising someone as distinctly Irish, often used when encountering fellow Irish people abroad.
However, it's important to note that the expression doesn't necessarily imply an abnormally large head. One person shared an anecdote about their family having abnormally large heads, highlighting that while often used figuratively, the expression can sometimes refer to literal head size. It's more about a perceived "Irishness" in someone's appearance, which can be subjective and even exclusionary to those who don't fit the traditional mold.
Origins of the Expression
Pinpointing the exact origin of "big Irish head on him" proves challenging. Some speculate that comedian Dylan Moran popularised it during his "Monster" tour a couple of decades ago, although his routine focused on recognising an Irishman anywhere in the world because of their appearance. Others believe it gained traction after a Paddy Power marketing campaign featuring an image of a sunburnt man with a prominent head. This campaign, while not extensively detailed in the available sources, likely played a role in bringing the expression into the public consciousness.
Recently, the expression has been discussed on a podcast by Blindboy Boatclub, further increasing its presence in the national conversation. Additionally, the expression was explored in the "Why Would You Tell Me That" podcast with Dr. Ian Miller, a historian and author of A History of Ireland in 10 Body Parts. While the specific details of this discussion aren't available, it suggests that the notion of "Irish head size" has some historical context.
"Big Irish Head on Him" and Father Ted
Despite its popularity, there's no evidence to suggest that the expression "big Irish head on him" was explicitly used in the TV show Father Ted. While the show is renowned for its witty portrayal of Irish priests and their quirky interactions, this particular phrase doesn't appear in any known episodes or scripts.
However, the show's creators, Graham Linehan and Arthur Mathews, are known for their sharp observations of Irish culture and stereotypes. It's conceivable that the concept of a recognisable "Irish look" might have subtly influenced some of the characters or comedic situations in the show.
Is "Big Irish Head on Him" Still Used Today?
Yes, the expression "big Irish head on him" remains in circulation within contemporary Irish society. Its usage is often lighthearted and self-deprecating, reflecting a sense of camaraderie and shared identity among Irish people.
Conclusion
"Big Irish head on him" is a quirky and intriguing example of Irish slang that encapsulates a humorous observation about a perceived "Irish look." While its exact origins remain unclear, it appears to have evolved over time, gaining popularity through various cultural influences, including comedy, marketing, and podcasts. Although not explicitly featured in Father Ted, the expression shares a similar comedic sensibility with the show's portrayal of Irish stereotypes.
This expression highlights the tension between traditional stereotypes and the increasing diversity in Ireland. While often used playfully, it's important to be mindful of its potential to exclude those who don't fit the traditional mold. As Irish identity continues to evolve, it's crucial to use such expressions with awareness and sensitivity, ensuring inclusivity and respect for all who call Ireland home.
Ultimately, "big Irish head on him" provides a glimpse into the unique humor and cultural nuances that make Irish slang so captivating, reminding us of the power of language to both reflect and shape our understanding of identity.
![LUKE KELLY AT GUILD STREET [THE BIG IRISH HEAD ON HIM]-245856](https://farm66.static.flickr.com/65535/54231758804_47345ace62_m.jpg)
