La macagna
Macagna (Corsican for "jokes") is a real art form, requiring a certain amount of ingenuity and humor to succeed! But what is macagna (pronounced magagne)?
Definition: what do you call Corsican humor?
A true art of living, macagna is generally practiced in village bars (who doesn't know the bar "au central" on the village square?), but also in places where Corsicans often meet: at the hairdresser's, on the benches, in the squares on Sundays, on the terrace of a café, and so on. It's also used to gently tease guests. It's certainly not just for men, and it's the trademark of true Corsicans. All you need is the right theme and the right anecdote!
In any case, self-mockery is the principle of macagna. However, if you're a holidaymaker, avoid doing macagna with the locals, or you'll be sure to flop!
Village bar, Concours de la Magagne
In the village, the bar is a kind of meeting place where news and stories are spread, and where everything is known. Joys and sorrows are shared.
The latest gossip, political news, misfortunes and, of course, "undercover" information is whispered. Between two full-bodied coffees or two glasses of Pietra (local beer), everyone contributes their opinion or their share of information, then leaves with what they've managed to glean.
It's also a world with a strong sense of identity, where everyone has their place: the tourist tables near the terrace, and in the middle or at the bar, the regulars, ready for macagna "duels" in the good-natured atmosphere. It's a sense of humor that lets you escape from everyday life for a moment!
Accommodations such as bed & breakfasts and farm inns are also close to the island way of life, whatever the season. Here, conviviality, sharing and good humor (and a dose of macagna) are the order of the day! It's also an opportunity to discover the authenticity of the island's terroir and traditions!
Macagna and social networks
Today, social networks are the ultimate means of communication and sharing. The practice of macagna has also carved out a place for itself in certain Corsican groups, with politics as a favorite theme. Nicknames - often unflattering - are combined with a touch of sarcastic humor.
And if you're a fan of macagna, don't hesitate to share your best anecdotes with us.
What do Corsicans call the French in Ajaccio or Bastia?
You may hear this name attributed to a continental Frenchman: the "pinzutu", pronounced "pinsout" because it comes from the pointed country, continental France. The word is said to derive from the pointed shape of the hats worn by French soldiers who came to subdue the islanders in the 18th century! It is also said to be linked to the strong Parisian accent....
How do you say "bon vacances" in Corsican?
If someone says to you: "bone vacanze" you can answer a ringrazziavi for je vous remercie and a ringrazziatti for je te remercie.
How do you say joke in Corsican, mockery?
Now that you understand the term "macagna", here's an example between macagneur and macagné. One makes his audience laugh at the expense of the other, without any malice or offense.
Here's how to "turn someone on":
