kicksie wicksie etymology

Etymology

"Kicksiewicksie" is a nonce word created by James Joyce in his novel Ulysses. It is first used in Chapter 3, "Proteus," when the protagonist, Stephen Dedalus, is walking along Sandymount Strand. The word appears in the following passage:

A distinguished air, he thought. Landlord he was, I fancy. Now begging alms. Who knows? He looked tired and weak. I am going to bed to try to sleep. After that long tram I feel tired. Better go home to bed. But no. He wants me to tell him his fortune. I cannot leave him. Kicksiewicksey. Poor wretch!

Meaning

The meaning of "kicksiewicksie" is uncertain. Joyce never defined the word, and it does not appear in any dictionary. However, scholars have proposed several possible interpretations:

• A nonsense word: Some critics believe that "kicksiewicksie" is simply a nonsense word that Joyce invented to evoke a sense of mystery or otherworldliness.
• A reference to the sound of footsteps: Others suggest that "kicksiewicksie" refers to the sound of someone walking or shuffling their feet. This interpretation is supported by the fact that Stephen hears the word as he is walking along the beach.
• A symbol of poverty or destitution: The word "kick" can mean to kick or trample on something, and "wicksie" can be a diminutive form of "wick," which is a thread used in candlemaking. Thus, "kicksiewicksie" could be interpreted as a symbol of something that is trampled on or discarded, such as a poor or homeless person.
• An insult or term of endearment: "Kick" can also be used as a derogatory term for someone who is useless or insignificant. Alternatively, "wick" can be a symbol of love or compassion, especially when used in the phrase "to hold a candle for someone." Therefore, "kicksiewicksie" could be interpreted as either an insult or a term of endearment, depending on the context in which it is used.

Origin

The origin of "kicksiewicksie" is unknown. Joyce may have invented the word himself, or he may have been inspired by a word or phrase that he heard or read. Some scholars have suggested that the word is related to the Yiddish word "kicks," which means "chance" or "luck." Others have proposed that it is a corruption of the Irish phrase "kick the biscuit," which is a slang expression for walking away from something.

Ultimately, the meaning and origin of "kicksiewicksie" remain a mystery. However, the word has become a memorable and enigmatic part of Joyce's work, and it continues to fascinate and intrigue readers to this day.

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