Meaning & Analysis
The proverb has its roots in the superstitious belief that one can summon the Devil simply by speaking his name, implying that words have the power to invoke supernatural entities.
Insights
Uncanny Coincidence
The most common modern usage, this is a humorous exclamation for when a person who was the subject of conversation unexpectedly appears. The 'Devil' is used hyperbolically to refer to the person.
Manifesting Negativity
The proverb serves as a cautionary idea that dwelling on or discussing negative subjects, fears, or problems can seem to bring them into being or make them more likely to occur.
The Power of Words
On a deeper level, the saying hints at the performative power of language, suggesting that our words do not merely describe reality but can actively shape it, bringing concepts—good or bad—to the forefront of experience.
From Superstition to Irony
Originating from a genuine folk superstition that uttering a malevolent entity's name could summon it, the proverb's evolution into a casual, ironic remark on coincidence reflects a broader cultural shift from literal belief to secular metaphor.
Psychology of Coincidence
The proverb's enduring power lies in its connection to the psychological phenomenon of frequency illusion (the Baader-Meinhof effect), where our minds perceive coincidences as meaningful events after a subject is brought to our attention.
Evolution of the Archetype
The cross-reference to 'Speak of the wolf' suggests the proverb's ancient roots, where the tangible danger of a wolf was later replaced by the supernatural and moral threat of the Devil, amplifying its perceived power.
Literary and Dramatic Trope
This saying has become a widely used literary and dramatic trope, employed to create comedic or dramatic tension when a character arrives at the precise moment they are being discussed.
Rhetorical Devices
Hyperbole
Referring to an ordinary person as 'the Devil' is a dramatic exaggeration that injects humor and surprise into the situation of a coincidence.
Symbolism
The 'Devil' serves as a powerful symbol for the uncanny, the unwelcome, or the subject of gossip, making the proverb applicable to a wide range of social situations.
Causal Structure
The proverb's structure ('Speak... and...') gives it the feel of a direct causal relationship, framing the coincidence as an inevitable law of nature, which enhances its force and memorability.
Transcription
Quotations
O that we had Sir Tophas . . in the midst Of our myrth, and ecce autem, wyl you see the deuill?
The English say, Talk of the Devil, and he's presently at your elbow.
The Devil is never nearer, then when we are talking of him.
Talk of the Devil and he'll either come or send.
[As in 1670 Ray].
Cross References
- See Dür., II, no. 691.
- N33 Sooner named sooner come
- W607 Speak of the wolf and he will appear.
Annotations
- Spoken when they, of whom we are speaking, come in by Chance.
Related Proverbs
Original Scan
Used under CC BY-NC 3.0.