In the rolling hills and rugged coastlines of Cornwall, where the sea meets the land in a passionate embrace, there’s a tale whispered among the locals. It’s a tale of the mischievous and elusive Cornish Piskys, the tiny folk who’ve been part of Cornish folklore for generations. But why are they named ‘Piskys’? And what’s this about them riding on the shoulders of emmets? Gather ’round, dear reader, and let “The Secret Chronicler” unveil the mystery.

First, let’s delve into the name. ‘Pisky’ is derived from the old Cornish word ‘Pyski’, which means ‘little fairy’. These creatures are often likened to pixies in other parts of England, but the Cornish Piskys have a charm all their own. They’re known for their playful nature, their twinkling eyes, and their penchant for playing tricks on unsuspecting humans. But unlike their counterparts, they have a particular fondness for the emmets.

Now, for those not in the know, ’emmet’ is a Cornish term for ‘ant’, but it’s also a playful nickname for tourists. You see, just as ants march in lines, tourists often tread the well-worn paths of Cornwall’s attractions. And it’s said that Piskys, with their insatiable curiosity, love to hitch a ride on the shoulders of these emmets, travelling unseen and causing a bit of mischief along the way.

Imagine, if you will, a sunburnt tourist, map in hand, trying to find their way to the next picturesque spot. Unbeknownst to them, a Pisky sits perched on their shoulder, chuckling to itself. Every so often, it might whisper a wrong direction into the tourist’s ear or give a gentle tug on their hair. It’s all in good fun, of course. The Piskys mean no harm; they’re just indulging their playful nature.

But why do they do this? Well, some say it’s their way of connecting with the world beyond Cornwall. By riding on the shoulders of emmets, they get to see new places and experience new adventures, all while staying close to their beloved homeland. Others believe it’s simply their way of ensuring that the magic of Cornwall is spread far and wide. After all, who wouldn’t want to share the beauty and wonder of such a place?

In conclusion, the Cornish Piskys, with their rich history and playful nature, are an integral part of Cornwall’s folklore. Their name, rooted in the ancient language of the land, and their unique relationship with the emmets, make them truly special. So, the next time you find yourself in Cornwall, take a moment to look over your shoulder. You never know; you might just have a Pisky companion of your own. And remember, it’s all in good fun. After all, as we say in Cornwall, “There’s nowt as queer as folk… or Piskys!”