Every country and culture has its symbols and icons representing important concepts or serving as visual reminders of the unique cords which unite its people. Some of Ireland's are the Shamrock plant, the Lyre instrument, the Claddaugh ring.

Most people are familiar with the Shamrock representing St. Patricks illustration of the triune godhead; I think, too, it represents the deep seated devotion the Irish people have for God. I don't idealize or (God forbid) canonize a nation or group, all have individuals of both good and grievous characters, but history shows the priorities and valued beliefs of a nation. That the Irish value a relationship with the God of the universe is clear in their culture,and their humor is filled with the realisation that humans all too often fall short of that highest inclination.

On a sober note, the rising suicide rate amongst young men has recently been in the news, along with conjecture as to its source. The idea that the changing roles of men and women were one great implication was offered. I have my own idea to submit: as a modern society makes destructive attacks on the foundations of religious faith, a very important part of the Irish culture is undergoing questioning, removing a very important bulwark for the meaningfulness of existence. Actually, most Western societies are facing this same challenge- and I don't think it's quite fair to lay the difficulty at the feet of the Irish Woman.

The Claddaugh ring has interesting meaning. I had always wondered about the meaning of its intertwined symbols. Here is what I found out: The heart in the center represents love. The hands surrounding it represent friendship. The crown at the top stands for fidelity. It is worn on the left hand,facing inward, if your heart is spoken for and two hearts are joined, and if you are unattached and your heart not yet won, the ring is worn on the right hand, facing outward.

According to one source I read, the Lyre is more of a symbol of Ireland than the shamrock. It is one official symbol, although for the rest of the world's viewpoint I would venture to put my bets on the shamrock! Nevertheless, The harp and the Gael are closely allied throughout their histories and the links here have some good reading on the subject:

Gaelic Harp
Ancient Irish Music