Is fíach ní dlomthar.

Is fíach ní dlomthar.

(is * debt * thing * that is proclaimed)

A thing that is proclaimed is a debt. Whatever is publicly declared is owed.

So says Midir when he pays his gaming debt to Eochaid in “Tochmarc Étaíne”. The same idea is found in “Diambad messe bad rí réil” in somewhat different words: “Is fíach o gelltar do nech” (It is a debt from the time it is promised to someone). The early 20th century Canadian poet Robert Service said this in rhyme in his poem “The Cremation of Sam McGee” with the line “Now a promise made is a debt unpaid.”

Topics: Maxims & Wise Counsel