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ALTHOUGH THE PUERTO RICAN PEASANT (JIBARO) WALKS INTO
THE SEA DURING FESTIVAL (AT MIDNIGHT ON THE SAINT'S DAY), HE WILL NOT GO IN ANY OTHER TIME. HE CANNOT SWIM.
THIS IS A PURPOSEFUL OMISSION. IN THE PAST, MANY OF
THEM MADE A GOOD PART OF THEIR LIVING FISHING IN WATERS
WHICH WERE OCCASIONALLY KNOWN TO BE SHARK INFESTED.
THE THEORY WAS THAT IF YOU COULDN'T SWIM, YOU WOULD
DROWN QUICKLY IF YOU FELL IN. THEN YOU WOULDN'T FEEL
IT WHEN THE SHARK GOT YOU.
Data entry tech comment:
Updated by TRD
Where learned: PUERTO RICO ; HATO REY
Keyword(s): Peasant ; Poor ; Puerto Rico ; SUPERSTITION ; Swim ; WATER
| Subject headings: | CUSTOM FESTIVAL -- Typical Elements of a Festive Pattern BELIEF -- Product or activity of man or animal BELIEF -- Measure of time Year |
Date learned: 00-00-1961