Thought Theater

Oy Vey Day genre: Tongue-In-Cheek

Oy Vey Day is a recurring posting here at Thought Theater. It’s strictly lighthearted and meant to bring a smile or a chuckle. Strange as it may seem, even though I grew up in an Italian American Catholic home, I’ve always felt some kinship with Jewish culture and familial dynamics. Perhaps it’s the notion of guilt that both seem to embrace or perhaps it’s the numerous unique expressions and insightful conversational banter that is found in both Italian and Jewish cultures. Regardless, I’ve always had a curiosity for Jewish or Yiddish terminology. I have a few books that list many of these expressions and offer insight into their origin and meaning.

Today’s posting is from the book Drek!, written by Yetta Emmes with illustrations by Kim Wilson Brandt. I will start off with a couple definitions followed by a little story that uses the words:

Rugalach (RUG-a-luch) - bite-sized crescent-shaped pastries filled with jam or honey and nuts.

Geshmak (geh-SHMOCK) - tasty, extremely delicious, finger-lickin' good.

Mr. Cohen was dying and his son was at his side to comfort him. The old man licked his lips and said, "It smells like your mama is making rugalach. They have such a geshmak, a little piece on my lips would make me feel so much better." The son hurried to the kitchen, but returned empty-handed.

"So, where is the ruglach?" the father inquired.

"Mama said it's for after," his son replied.