My neighbour returned for a visit the day following my last post with a pink umbrella of her own. There’s no doubt she was impressed with the invention.
Although for such a great invention it’s surprising that the Irish never really caught onto the super function of the umbrella. This is something I have thought about before. I admit, in the business districts of Dublin, a few clever folk may be spotted shielding their all-too-expensive suits from the rain. But in general for a country so accustomed to rain we aren’t all that good at staying dry.
I suspected the reason for the unemployed Irish umbrella was because they are not fashionable or funky enough. A quick online search proved me wrong. Not only is there huge choice – but they’re funky too. I particularly liked the blank umbrella with fabric paints included to cater for a personalised brolly – oh the possibilities!
My theory now leans towards the umbrellas awkward design – it is never compact and robust at the same time. This fine balance that results in perfect micro design just hasn’t been accomplished yet where keeping dry is concerned. Or are the people of Ireland so fond of being miserable that we feel closer to the good old days when we leave our umbrellas behind and walk out in the damp and dreary day ahead?