Chi si’ `u figghiu da’ jaddìna janca? | Sicilian Sayings
In the rich and expressive world of Sicilian sayings, few capture the island’s sharp wit and social instincts like:
“Chi si’ `u figghiu da’ jaddìna janca?”
“Who are you, the son of the white hen?”
This saying is typically used to scold someone who expects preferential treatment, acting as if they’re somehow above the rest. It’s a tongue-in-cheek way of cutting down arrogance or entitlement—especially when someone thinks they deserve special privileges without merit.
The Meaning Behind the Saying
The metaphor is both colorful and pointed: white hens are rare, and by extension, so are “special” people. So if someone’s acting like they deserve more than others, the sarcastic implication is: “Oh, are you the miraculous child of a rare and blessed white hen?”
It’s a reminder that in Sicily, humility goes a long way—and acting like royalty without reason is sure to earn you a verbal nudge back down to earth.
A Glimpse Into History
Interestingly, the roots of this expression might stretch all the way back to ancient Rome. Historical sources like Pliny the Elder and Suetonius recount an intriguing episode involving Livia Drusilla, the wife of Emperor Augustus.
As the story goes, Livia was walking one day when a white hen fell from the sky, supposedly dropped by an eagle. The augurs—Rome’s official interpreters of omens—were consulted, and they declared the hen a sign of great fortune. They advised Livia to treat it well and raise it with care, as it represented the prosperity of her future. And they were right: she became one of the most influential women in Roman history.
Whether the saying has a direct link to this legend or not, it reflects Sicily’s ability to blend humor, history, and wisdom into everyday language. And just like a good plate of pasta alla Norma, this saying is served best with a healthy portion of irony.
