The Claddagh

The Claddagh


Lost in the mists of history,
this symbol of a nation
has long remained a mystery
though it’s held in adoration.

The heart, an emblem of one’s love,
is the center of this symbol.
The way it points tells the story of
who’s devoted and who’s nimble.

The hands that hold protectively
connote allegiance as a friend.
Each holds the heart respectively
prepared to comfort or defend.

Above them both is loyalty
whose rune is a golden crown.
It’s a portrait of one’s constancy
and of a friend who won’t back down.

Today it’s a sign of Irish pride
and its meaning is quite clear.
Whatever befalls, one can abide
with a heart full of Irish cheer.



Notes
An entry for the inaugural round of "Invalid Item" 
Prompt: Image
Line Limit: no less than 12 or more than 40
Line Count: 20

The Claddagh ring (Irish: fáinne Chladaigh) is a traditional Irish ring given as a token of love or worn as a wedding ring. The design and customs associated with it originated in the Irish fishing village of Claddagh, located just outside the city of Galway. The ring was first produced in the 17th century during the reign of Queen Mary II, though elements of the design date to the late Roman period. Claddaghs continue to be worn, primarily by those of Irish heritage, as both a cultural symbol and as engagement and wedding rings.

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Ken