The Devil To Pay: Meaning and Origins
“The devil to pay” is a colorful idiom that signals a great deal of trouble is brewing or that someone will face significant consequences for their actions. It doesn’t necessarily involve supernatural forces; instead it conveys an impending difficulty that is often self‑inflicted. The phrase carries a sense of inevitability – trouble is coming, and it will be substantial. Understanding its roots reveals a fascinating journey from nautical jargon to a widely used expression of misfortune.
Tracing the Origins: From Ships to Shores
The origin of “the devil to pay” is surprisingly linked to shipbuilding and maritime life. In the 18th century, a “devil” referred to the seam between a ship’s deck and its upper edge, or the space between the planks of the deck. To “pay the devil” meant to caulk, or smear with tar, this troublesome seam – a particularly difficult and unpleasant task. This was not a metaphorical payment but a literal application of tar.
However, the expression quickly expanded beyond its literal nautical meaning. By the early 1700s, it began to be used figuratively, suggesting any difficult or unpleasant task that needed to be addressed. This shift in meaning is evident in Jonathan Swift’s 1711 Journal to Stella, one of the earliest documented uses of the phrase in a non‑nautical context. The phrase cleverly played upon the existing nautical terminology and the more general idea of paying a price, ultimately transforming into the idiom we know today. It is worth noting that the earliest instances sometimes lacked the definite article “the,” and the phrase evolved into its current form over time.
Literary and Cultural Significance
“The devil to pay” isn’t merely an old phrase; it is a recurring motif in literature and culture, often used to foreshadow conflict, highlight character flaws, or emphasize the consequences of choices. Its presence in various texts demonstrates its enduring relevance and adaptability.
Example #1: George Wier’s The Devil’s Pay
In George Wier’s novel, The Devil’s Pay, the title itself encapsulates the central theme of inevitable consequences. The story revolves around a murder investigation, and the phrase subtly suggests that someone will ultimately “pay the price” for their actions. The absence of “to” in the title isn’t a deviation but a stylistic choice that mirrors the phrase’s evolution and emphasizes the weight of retribution.
Example #2: Beattie’s Poetry
In the poem “To Mr. Alexander Ross” by Dr. Beattie, the line “The devil pay them with a pettle” offers a particularly interesting usage. Here, “pay” takes on a slightly different nuance, implying a form of just deserts or retribution. The “pettle,” a Scottish term for a slap or a switch, suggests a swift and deserved punishment for those who have neglected Scotland. Again, the omission of “to” doesn’t change the core meaning.
Example #3: Iced Earth’s “The Devil To Pay (July 1st, 1863)”
The metal band Iced Earth uses “the devil to pay” in a song that reflects on the American Civil War. The lyrics link the phrase to the immense cost of conflict—the bloodshed, loss, and long‑term consequences. It isn’t a literal reference to supernatural forces but a powerful metaphor for the inevitable repercussions of war and the sacrifices made. The repetition of the phrase underscores the gravity of the situation.
Example #4: David Wilton’s Word Myths
David Wilton’s work delves into the etymology of idioms and challenges common misconceptions surrounding “the devil to pay.” Wilton highlights the importance of tracing the phrase back to its nautical origins and debunking the myth that it solely stems from a Faustian bargain. This analysis demonstrates the value of understanding the historical context of language and avoiding oversimplified explanations.
Beyond Literature: Usage in Everyday Language
The phrase “the devil to pay” continues to thrive in contemporary language, adding color and emphasis to various situations.
- He knew he’d have the devil to pay when his wife found out about the surprise party he’d thrown.
- After neglecting his studies for months, Mark realized he had the devil to pay when exam results were released.
- She ignored all the warning signs, and now she’s facing the devil to pay in the form of mounting debts.
- The politician’s scandalous behavior meant he had the devil to pay with the public and the media.
- Having forgotten his anniversary, John knew he had the devil to pay when he got home that night.
In each of these examples, “the devil to pay” signifies a consequence that is both inevitable and unpleasant, adding a dramatic flair to the situation.
Nuances and Variations
While the phrase “the devil to pay” is fairly consistent in its meaning, subtle variations can occur. Sometimes the article “the” is omitted, as seen in Wier’s novel. This doesn’t fundamentally alter the meaning, but it can lend a slightly archaic or informal tone. The phrase is occasionally used in a more playful or ironic manner, downplaying the severity of the consequences. However, at its core, “the devil to pay” remains a powerful idiom for expressing impending trouble and the inescapable consequences of actions.