MODERN SUPERSTITIONS

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXX, 8 October 1936, Page 5

MODERN SUPERSTITIONS

Since the Great War there has been a startling growth in the belief in luck. It has taken many forms. The idea that it was unlucky to light three cigarettes with one match, which was fimly held, lasted for some time. Then it died out, but in certain circles has come back in an inverted form, which insists, where possible. on lighting the three cigarettes with one match. The prejudice against the number thirteen is always with us, whether it affects the number at table, the number of a room in a hotel or a house in a street. The luck of the horseshoe has been affected by changes in modes of transport, though in country districts it is still as effective as ever in warding off illluck, and against the unwelcome attentions of witches. In the poorer parts of our large towns love charms, dream books, and books of divination have a ready sale. The most string example of the survival of a superstition in modern li£e is the use of the mascot, both as a personal ornament and as an accessory of the motor-car. In both cases fashion is no doubt largely ' responsible, but there is also the subconscious feeling of protection against the unknown, which is fostered by the complexity of our modern civilisatiion, and especially by the dangers of road traffic. The prejudice against May marriages is at least' as old as the Remans, and probably much older, and the superstition has not lost its force in recent years. This is proved by ’noticing the falling off in marriage announcements in any important newspaper during the month of May. Friday weddings are still unpopular. The growth of the weekend habit may have lessened the prejudice against starting a journey on. a Friday: it has not affected the disinclination to start any new enterprise on that day.