Yet Another Famous Jack: The Jack O’ Lantern
We’ve been writing much about famous personalities named Jack these past few days, but with Halloween just around the corner, why don’t we talk about yet another famous Jack in history, the Jack O’ Lantern.
In modern times, the Jack O’ Lantern is simply a pumpkin hollowed out and carved with a face (usually a scary one). A light source is then placed inside the Lantern. While this is usually a candle, other practical light sources may also be used, such as a light bulb or even an oil-based lamp.
History
The Jack O’ Lantern traces its roots in folklore. One Irish legend tells of a farmer named Jack, who was able to capture the devil by trickery and only let him go on the condition that the devil would never let Jack into hell. The devil complied and was set free. But the cunning being that he is, he knew Jack wasn’t getting into heaven either (Jack was quite the sinner). So when Jack died, he was turned away by both heaven and hell, and was destined to roam about the Earth forever. Being a farmer, he hollowed out a turnip from his farm and placed a candle in it to serve as a lantern. Jack roams the Earth in search of a final resting place.
Twists
While Jack O’ Lanterns are traditionally simply carved out with a scary face with just eyes and a mouth, people are beginning to carve more complex images. Here’s an example of some geek-oriented Lanterns from the Joy of Tech (and here are instructions on how to make them, for the artist in you!).
Mac Addicts would love the Steve Wozniak lantern.
Microsoft haters would dig the Steve “I’m gonna #$%#@ kill Google” Ballmer one!
Here’s another one of my favorites: George W. Bush.
Now that’s scary!
[tags]halloween, jack, jack o lantern, history, holidays[/tags]
