I’m referring back, once again, to my friend in the bar; he mentioned a tradition of playing poker on Good Friday. Now, this was new to me and it seemed a strange day to choose to play poker. After all, Ireland is a Catholic country and, although not everyone is a devout follower, Catholic traditions are still strongly observed.
Now, most people I know here are adamant that religion does not play any part in the country’s attitude to gambling or poker. Yet there is an interesting phrase used in Ireland that sticks in my mind… “A pack of cards is the devil’s prayer book.”
It’s a beautiful phrase, something profound that your granny might say. But I’ve heard it on the lips of young and old, male and female, all over Ireland; and it’s usually delivered with a knowing look. But what does it actually mean? Is poker really viewed as a temptation sent by the devil?
OK, I admit that this definition’s somewhat dramatic. But poker is definitely still seen as a questionable vice in Ireland (not only Ireland, I know; but that’s a discussion for another day).
Interestingly enough, the first time I heard this “devil’s prayer book” saying was as I entered a cardroom; and it was directed at me from a doorman. Strange, you may think; but it’s something I’ve come to expect. Especially seeing as I was the only girl going inside to play; this behaviour is still seen as a bit taboo, even by the cardroom employees.
Ask anyone in Ireland who isn’t involved in the industry who they think plays poker and you’ll get similar answers; men aged 18 to 35 or glamorous celebrities. Sometimes, the mention of a cravat is thrown in, or cigar smoke; beer always gets a mention. But I can guarantee that you’ll never get told that you look like a poker player. This would be considered insulting. When I tell people that I play, I get a look of shock or a disappointed shake of the head. And, you guessed it…the old “devil’s prayer book” line.
Traditionally, poker is seen as a man’s game. It’s a game for gentlemen’s clubs, pubs and lad’s nights in. It’s a leftover concept from the days of the snug, when ladies (usually of ill repute) were hidden away in a designated section of the pub, being served alcohol through their own hatch. It is also socially accepted as a game for anyone; but only when there’s no money involved. Gambling is a vice, don’t forget.
And so, we’re back to the devil’s prayer book…
Yes, it’s just a saying and you don’t need to be religious to utter the words…but even just considering the high level of taboo surrounding the game, surely Good Friday would be the last day to organise a home game? Well apparently not. And the reason is: the pubs are closed.
Other than Christmas Day, this is the only time that the pubs close in Ireland. And so, what better way to cope with the disappointment than to get a home game set up?
One thing that the Irish are known for, other than music and literature, is their ability to drink and have fun. Take this opportunity away, and they’ll take their music, games and craic with them – until the taps flow again, of course. This is part of the reason why I love Ireland; it doesn’t always make sense, but the people certainly know how to enjoy themselves: with or without a pack of cards.
