Nert ní dernaim.

Nert ní dernaim.
Rith ní rordaim.
Léim ní rolngaim.

(strength * not * I can do
running * not * I can run
leap * not * I can leap)

That is a feat I cannot do.
That is a run I cannot run.
That is a leap I cannot leap.

So says the old and decrepit king Cathaír to Buchat in the tale “Esnada Tige Buchat”, expressing his impotence in general, and in particular his inability to control the depredations of his sons against Buchat.

Topics: Similes, Metaphors & Kennings