I know the phrase, but realised I couldn’t confidently explain what it was we were supposed to be remembering. So I thought I’d find out a little more about the tradition.
Bonfire Night, also known as Guy Fawkes Night, marks the failure of the Gunpowder Plot in 1605. Guy Fawkes was one of a group of conspirators who planned to blow up the Houses of Parliament in London. He was discovered guarding the gunpowder before the plan could be carried out.
The date became an annual occasion, with bonfires and, later, fireworks becoming part of the celebrations. Some also involve burning a homemade figure known as a “Guy”.
Quite a lot of history behind a phrase I’ve heard so many times without giving it much thought.
Here in Denmark, the bonfires make me think of Sankt Hans Aften. The history is different, of course, but gathering around a fire is familiar. Although our June evenings are usually a little lighter and warmer than a British evening in November.
There’s something about the Bonfire Night atmosphere that appeals to me, though. A cold evening, the glow of the fire, fireworks overhead and something warm to wrap your hands around. Perhaps a toffee apple too, although I imagine those are easier to admire than to eat gracefully.
No bonfire plans here, but a warm drink and a good film like V for Vendetta sounds like a lovely way to spend the evening anyway.
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