I wonder how many of you know what famous man was brought up in Henfynyw in Ceredigion, the kingdom of Ceredig. Any Welshman would tell you it was David, patron saint of Wales, who is closely associated with spreading the faith of the Celtic Christian Church. His sermons emphasized joy, faith and discipline. Gradually he emerged as one of the figures of the British heroic age, rather like King Arthur. The leek was carried as his symbol because at one time he survived on only stream water and wild leeks. According to Shakespeare, King Henry V wore a leek on St. David's Day in honor of his Welsh ancestry. Recently the daffodil, known as Peter's leek in Welsh (cennin Pedr), has become a more popular symbol. He died on March 1, probably in 585, and that date has become a time for Welshmen everywhere to celebrate the blessings of their heritage.
So they should know that there is a St. David's Society in Japan. Members are planning a celebration at the Foreign Correspondent's Club on March 1, including a special five-course dinner, Welsh cakes and mints carried back by hand by Catherine Nagashima, one of the founders, favors from Felinfoel Brewery (no Felinfoel beer, but maybe next year) and Welsh singers and readings. It is not necessary to be Welsh to attend; an interest in or association with Wales is enough, which qualifies many Japanese. The cost is 10,000 yen. For information, phone Rose Iwata, (03) 3397-1007, fax (03) 3397-8641 or e-mail [email protected]. Do it today. Reservations are actually closed, but any of you reading this column will be welcome to attend.
How can I write this without making some comment about the Irish, who also celebrate their day on March 17, St. Patrick's Day. It is appropriate, then, that today we also discuss something Irish: bread. A gentleman has heard from his Japanese friends that it is the best bread they have ever tasted, whether it is soda bread (unleavened, in loaves), whole meal (soda bread with whole wheat flour) or barm brack (cake-like with fruit mixed in), customarily served at Halloween. A ring is added to the mix and whoever finds it will surely be married within a year. Our reader asks, "Given the popularity of all things Irish, one would suppose that Ireland's bread would be a success here too, but where can I buy it?"