Bad Luck To Bring A Banana On A Boat
If you've ever been on a boat, you may have heard the superstition that bringing a banana on board can bring bad luck. This belief is prevalent throughout the boating community, and many sailors and anglers swear by it. But is there any truth behind the old wives' tale? In this article, we'll take a closer look at the history of the myth, the reasons behind it, and whether or not there's any real scientific evidence to support it.
The History of the Myth
The superstition dates back hundreds of years and has its roots in seafaring lore. Some say that the myth originated in the early days of sailing when boats transported bananas from the Caribbean to other parts of the world. Bananas ripen quickly and emit a gas called ethylene, which can cause other fruits and vegetables to ripen and spoil more quickly. If the bananas were transported on a ship with other perishable goods, they could potentially cause the other food to spoil, leaving the crew without provisions for their journey. Therefore, captains would prohibit bananas from being brought on board to prevent spoilage and maintain the crew's food supply.
The Reasons Behind the Myth
But the superstition goes beyond practicality. Many sailors believe that bananas are bad luck because they are associated with death and misfortune. This belief could stem from the fact that bananas were often found on slave ships, and the cruel treatment of enslaved people on these ships is well-documented. Additionally, some believe that the shape of a banana resembles a crescent moon, which is a symbol of bad luck. Others say that the color yellow is associated with danger and caution, and therefore bringing a yellow fruit on board is seen as a bad omen.
Debunking the Myth
Despite the widespread belief in the myth, there is no evidence to suggest that bananas are actually bad luck on boats. There are plenty of sailors who bring bananas on board without any issues, and many fishing charters even offer bananas as part of their snack selection. In fact, some argue that the superstition is actually good luck, as it may lead to more fish being caught due to the increased fishing competition from those who avoid bananas. Ultimately, the belief in the myth is more likely a matter of superstition and personal preference rather than any real danger.
Conclusion
In the end, whether or not to bring a banana on board is up to the individual. If you're superstitious and believe in the myth, it's probably best to avoid bringing bananas on your next boating trip. However, if you're a logical thinker who doesn't believe in superstitions, there's no reason why you can't enjoy a delicious banana while out on the water. Either way, it's important to remember that the myth is just that – a myth – and shouldn't be taken too seriously.