Ben Jonson When Pigs Fly

Ben Jonson's "When Pigs Fly": A Deep Dive into a Non-Existent Play and the Power of Proverbial Expression

The phrase "when pigs fly" is ubiquitous in modern English, signifying an event so improbable as to be practically impossible. It's a common expression, readily understood across generations and cultures. However, the question of its origin, particularly a purported connection to the works of the celebrated Jacobean playwright Ben Jonson, is a fascinating exploration of linguistic evolution and the enduring power of proverbial expression. This article will delve into the myth of a Ben Jonson play titled "When Pigs Fly," examining the true sources of the idiom and exploring its rich history and enduring relevance. We will uncover the reality behind this fictional play and reveal the actual literary and cultural origins of this widely used phrase.

The Myth of "When Pigs Fly" by Ben Jonson

There's no evidence whatsoever that Ben Jonson, a giant of Elizabethan and Jacobean drama, ever wrote a play titled "When Pigs Fly." The supposed connection between the playwright and the idiom is a persistent but entirely unfounded rumor. While Jonson's works are extensive and encompass a wide range of themes and styles, from comedies like Volpone to tragedies like Sejanus His Fall, there's no record, in any scholarly catalogue or historical archive, of a play bearing this title. This persistent myth highlights the ease with which misinformation can spread and become entrenched in popular belief.

Tracing the True Origins of the Idiom

The actual origins of "when pigs fly" are far more nuanced and less glamorous than a lost masterpiece by Ben Jonson. The phrase, in various forms, stretches back centuries, evolving through different languages and cultures. Its core meaning – expressing incredulity or the impossibility of an event – remains constant, however.

The earliest traceable forms of the idiom typically utilize imagery of swine and unusual behavior. While the exact phrasing of "when pigs fly" might be relatively recent, the underlying sentiment of unlikely animal actions representing impossible events has a much older lineage. Similar expressions appeared in various forms in medieval literature and folklore, often involving unlikely animal behaviors. These expressions highlight the long-standing human tendency to use animal behavior to represent the improbable.

The Power of Animal Metaphor in Idioms

The use of animals in idioms is a powerful linguistic tool. Animals often possess symbolic meanings rooted in cultural perceptions and established stereotypes. Pigs, in particular, have held a complex symbolic position throughout history. While domesticated and important economically, they are also frequently associated with filth and gluttony. The image of a pig flying, therefore, perfectly encapsulates the impossible: it combines the mundane and the absurd. This juxtaposition creates a powerful and memorable image that effectively conveys the intended meaning.

The Evolution of "When Pigs Fly": A Linguistic Journey

The precise evolution of the phrase "when pigs fly" is difficult to pinpoint precisely, but its gradual shift from earlier, similar expressions can be traced through historical texts and literary records. These variations often feature animals performing actions contrary to their nature, emphasizing the idea of something extraordinary and unbelievable.

Over time, the idiom simplified, becoming more concise and memorable. "When pigs fly" emerged as the most prevalent and readily understood version, largely due to its brevity and effective imagery. Its use increased in the 20th and 21st centuries, becoming a standard part of everyday conversation. This evolution exemplifies how idioms can naturally refine and simplify, ultimately becoming ubiquitous expressions.

Why the Myth of Ben Jonson Persists

The persistent myth linking Ben Jonson to "when pigs fly" remains a testament to the power of misattribution and the enduring appeal of attributing common sayings to famous figures. It may stem from a combination of factors:

• The allure of a literary origin: Many common idioms are mistakenly attributed to renowned writers or historical figures, lending them a perceived gravitas and historical legitimacy. This desire to trace commonplace expressions back to sophisticated sources is a widespread phenomenon.
• The lack of definitive historical records: Tracing the precise origins of idioms is often challenging. The absence of clear documentation concerning the specific phrase "when pigs fly" leaves room for speculation and the perpetuation of unsubstantiated claims.
• Oral transmission and the internet: The oral transmission of idioms can lead to variations and misinterpretations, and the internet, while a vast resource, can also readily amplify misinformation if not carefully vetted.

Beyond the Myth: Jonson's Contribution to Language

While Ben Jonson didn't write "When Pigs Fly," his contribution to the English language is undeniable. His plays are replete with witty dialogue, memorable characters, and innovative use of language. He was a master of satire and a keen observer of human nature, contributing significantly to the development of English drama and vocabulary. His influence on subsequent writers is substantial, solidifying his place as a pivotal figure in English literature.

The Enduring Power of "When Pigs Fly"

Despite its uncertain origin and the debunking of the Ben Jonson connection, "when pigs fly" remains a potent and widely used idiom. Its effectiveness lies in its simplicity, memorable imagery, and clear communicative function. It continues to serve as a concise and effective way to express disbelief or the improbability of an event. The phrase’s longevity highlights its powerful and enduring resonance within the English language.

FAQ: Unraveling Common Misconceptions

Q: Is there any proof Ben Jonson wrote a play called "When Pigs Fly"?

A: No. There is no historical record or evidence whatsoever supporting the existence of such a play by Ben Jonson. The connection is purely a myth.

Q: Where did the phrase "when pigs fly" originate?

A: The precise origin is uncertain, but similar expressions with the same underlying meaning – impossible events conveyed through unlikely animal actions – have appeared in various forms across centuries and cultures.

Q: Why is the phrase so popular?

A: Its enduring popularity stems from its simplicity, effective imagery, and the universality of its meaning: expressing utter disbelief in the likelihood of something happening.

Q: How does the phrase relate to other idioms using animal imagery?

A: "When pigs fly" belongs to a wider category of idioms that use animals to represent improbable or impossible events. These idioms leverage the inherent symbolic meanings and cultural perceptions associated with different animals.

Conclusion: Embracing the Myth and the Reality

The myth surrounding Ben Jonson and "When Pigs Fly" serves as a reminder of how easily misinformation can spread and take root. However, this exploration should not diminish the actual richness and importance of the idiom itself. Its enduring popularity underscores its effectiveness as a concise and universally understood expression of incredulity. While the connection to Ben Jonson is purely fictional, the phrase's history offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of language, the power of metaphor, and the enduring human tendency to use animal imagery to represent the improbable. The myth, in its own way, adds another layer to the rich tapestry of the idiom's history, reminding us that even false narratives can contribute to the enduring legacy of a common expression. The phrase “when pigs fly,” regardless of its true origins, continues to soar in popular usage, a testament to its enduring power and appeal.