There is a rude Maltese expression that I doubt has a long historic pedigree but which has become part of popular usage. It involves a zoological appreciation of the natural impossibility that would be cross-breeding a pachyderm and a member of the gryllidae family using nothing more than a great deal of patience and a modicum of saliva. I was reminded of this expression when reading the Times report of Joseph Muscat’s announcement of a “demonstration” in Zabbar. It turns out that “the people” will be demonstrating “peacefully but firmly” that “the truth will prevail”. Now, to continue on the lines of zoological appreciation mentioned earlier, if that is not a load of circum tauri then I do not know what is.
Pratchett has adapted his famous “truth” quote in the new book “Unseen Academicals”. Terry is now firmly convinced that “Truth” is a she – mainly because if a Lie will get to go half-way around the world before Truth can get its boots on – then Truth has to be a she. In any case, Minister Fenech has been travelling – not around the world but to London to watch Arsenal in the company of owners of major gaming operations right at the moment when the new gaming laws are being debated in parliament. The Prime Minister does not believe that this is a conflict of interest. There may not be, but one really does have to wonder why Minister Fenech needs the luxury of a private plane and company of parties interested in the outcome of currently debated legislation in order to go to the Emirates Stadium. A bigger question would be Why Arsenal?
So the Lie is travelling around the world, Truth is having a bit of a difficulty getting its boots on, and Joseph? Inhobbkom Joseph is preparing a right proper demonstration. The man must surely believe in the effects of zen. Or he must agree with the not so old Maltese adage:
“Bil-pacenzja u ftit bzieq, iljunfant hexa wurzieq.”
(With some patience, and a bit of saliva, an elephant screwed a cricket).
