Meaning & Analysis
An idiomatic expression meaning to do something in a backward, indirect, or improper manner. Instead of a straightforward action, it implies a perverse or contrary method that leads to a negative outcome.
Insights
Illicit or Sinister Gain
To acquire something through dishonest, treacherous, or malicious means. The 'gain' is morally corrupt and often achieved by causing harm or misfortune to others, reflecting the association of 'left' with the sinister.
Ironic Loss
Refers to a situation where an attempt to achieve a gain results in an unexpected loss or a counterproductive outcome. The effort backfires, turning a potential advantage into a definite disadvantage.
Perverse Action
Symbolizes doing something in the 'wrong way'—whether morally, socially, or practically. It represents an action that is fundamentally backward, unnatural, or inauthentic.
Symbolism of 'Left'
The proverb is deeply rooted in the historical and cultural bias against the left side. The Latin word 'sinister' originally meant 'left', and its evolution into meaning 'evil' or 'unlucky' is mirrored in this phrase, which equates the 'left shoulder' with wrongness and misfortune.
Psychological Duplicity
The phrase captures the psychology of treacherous behavior, where a seemingly positive action (a 'gain' or a 'good office') masks a malicious or harmful intent. It speaks to the human capacity for self-deception and rationalizing malevolent acts.
Cultural Superstition
This idiom is a product of widespread superstition, linking the left side with bad omens and ill-luck, as reinforced by related proverbs like 'Left-handed luck is ill luck'. It serves as a cultural artifact of this enduring belief.
Rhetorical Devices
Metaphor & Symbolism
The 'left shoulder' serves as a potent physical metaphor for a range of negative abstract concepts, including dishonesty, misfortune, and perversity.
Irony
The proverb is built on irony, as the word 'get' or 'gain' is used to describe an outcome that is either a net loss or a morally bankrupt achievement.
Idiom
The phrase is a classic idiom, where the collective meaning is non-literal and culturally specific, relying on shared historical and superstitious understanding.
Transcription
Quotations
Over the shoulder, or the wrong way.
I have gott it ore the left shoulder.
To gain by sinister means; also instead of getting, to lose by any bargain; the English say, To get over the left shoulder.
To get over the shoulders.
He gains over the left shoulder; i.e. his gain is mischief.
This Good Office over the Left Shoulder, is the Civility that he Values himself upon. He gives her his Good Word (as we call it) to the very End, that she may be Eaten.
Cross References
Related Proverbs
Original Scan
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