Meaning & Analysis
The proverb literally refers to being at the Peak Cavern in Derbyshire, a famous cave system in England that was colloquially known as 'The Devil's Arse'. It means to be at this specific, remote, and infamous location.
Insights
Ultimate Remoteness
The phrase metaphorically describes being in an extremely remote, obscure, or inaccessible place, equivalent to being at the 'end of the world'.
A State of Ruin or Disgrace
Symbolically, it represents a state of utter ruin, desperation, or social disgrace. To be in such a place implies having fallen to the lowest possible point, far from respectable society.
Hopeless Confusion
It can signify being in a state of complete confusion or being hopelessly lost, either physically or metaphorically, in a situation that is contemptible and inescapable.
Geographical and Folkloric Origins
The proverb is uniquely tied to a real location: the Peak Cavern in Derbyshire, England, colloquially known as the 'Devil's Arse'. This grounds the metaphor in a specific, notorious landmark, reflecting a historical tendency to associate dramatic or uncanny natural formations with demonic folklore.
Psychological and Moral Resonance
The expression's power lies in its vulgarity and demonic association, which conveys not just physical remoteness but a profound sense of moral or social exile. To be at the 'Devil's ass-a-peak' is to be in a place of ultimate contempt, disgrace, and damnation.
Metaphor for Extreme Isolation
As a descriptor for being 'one knows not where, at the Worlds end', the proverb serves as a powerful hyperbole for extreme isolation. It signifies a place beyond the boundaries of civilization, a point of no return that is both physically and spiritually desolate.
Rhetorical Devices
Hyperbole
The phrase is a dramatic exaggeration used to emphasize the extremity of a location or a state of being.
Dysphemism / Vulgarism
The use of 'Devil's ass' is an intentionally coarse and shocking expression (a dysphemism) that powerfully conveys a sense of dread, disgust, and contempt for the location or situation.
Grotesque Imagery
The proverb creates a grotesque and memorable visual of a demonic posterior to represent the ultimate undesirable, remote, and forsaken place.
Allusion
The expression alludes directly to both a real-world location (the Peak Cavern) and to Christian demonic folklore, adding layers of meaning for its contemporary audience.
Transcription
Quotations
The Divels-arse in the Peake.
To be one knows not where, at the Worlds end; The English say, at the Devils arse a peak.
Related Proverbs
Original Scan
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