September Unveiled: History, Lore & Renewal

September, the ninth month in our modern calendar, holds a unique position, marking a pivotal transition from the warmth of summer to the crisp embrace of autumn. It's a month steeped in history, rich with folklore, and often seen as a period of new beginnings, despite its name hinting at a different numerical origin. Understanding September is to delve into a blend of ancient calendrical quirks, significant historical milestones, and a profound connection to nature's cycles.

The Etymology of September: A Numerical Anomaly

The name 'September' derives from the Latin word 'septem', meaning 'seven'. This might seem a curious discrepancy, given that September is currently the ninth month of the year. The explanation lies in the ancient Roman calendar, which originally began in March. In this older system, September was indeed the seventh month.

The Roman calendar underwent several reforms, most notably with Julius Caesar's introduction of the Julian calendar in 45 BCE, and later refined into the Gregorian calendar we use today. These reforms shifted the start of the year to January 1st, pushing September from its original seventh position to the ninth, yet retaining its numerical prefix. This historical quirk makes September a fascinating linguistic artifact, a constant reminder of our calendrical evolution.

Understanding the Shift: Roman vs. Gregorian Calendars

To fully grasp why 'septem' became 'nine', it's helpful to see the historical progression:

This table clearly illustrates how the numerical names for September, October, November, and December became misaligned with their positions when January and February were moved to the beginning of the year, and July and August were renamed after Roman emperors.

September's Place in the Calendar: A Month of Transition

As the ninth month, September comprises thirty days. In the Northern Hemisphere, it is synonymous with the arrival of autumn, marked by the autumnal equinox, typically around the 22nd or 23rd of the month. This period sees a noticeable shift in weather patterns, with cooler temperatures, shorter daylight hours, and the spectacular transformation of foliage. The 'pale skies of September' and its 'mild' evenings, as described in classic literature, capture this unique atmospheric quality. It is often referred to as 'the May of autumn', highlighting its gentle beauty before the full chill of winter sets in.

A Tapestry of History: September's Pivotal Moments

Beyond its calendrical oddities and seasonal charm, September has been a stage for numerous significant historical events, particularly in French history, reflecting periods of intense political and social upheaval.

The French Revolution and September

• Journées, Massacres de Septembre (2-6 September 1792): This dark episode of the French Revolution saw the brutal slaughter of thousands of prisoners in Parisian jails. Fuelled by revolutionary fervour, paranoia, and fear of counter-revolutionaries and invading armies, these massacres exemplify the radicalisation of the Revolution. Families, like those of Chateaubriand, struggled to escape Paris during this terrifying period, forever etching these 'septembrisades' into the nation's memory.
• 22 September 1792: Foundation of the French Republic: In stark contrast to the violence, this date marks a monumental shift in French governance. It was declared the first day of the Year I of the Republic, symbolising a complete break from the monarchical past. This decision, made as the sun reached the autumnal equinox, entering the sign of Libra, underscored a profound new beginning for the nation, resetting its calendar and its political identity.

Political Shifts and Repression in 19th-Century France

• Lois de Septembre (September Laws) (1835): Following an assassination attempt on King Louis-Philippe I by Fieschi in July 1835, a series of repressive laws were passed. These 'September Laws' aimed to curb press freedom and increase penalties for offenses against the king and the state. They were a clear attempt by the government to suppress political dissent and stabilise the July Monarchy, despite being criticised by many, including Flaubert, as 'infinitely too lenient' by those seeking even harsher measures.
• The 4th September (1870): This date signifies the collapse of the Second Empire in France, brought about by the Franco-Prussian War and the capture of Emperor Napoleon III. In the wake of military defeat, a provisional government was formed, eventually leading to the establishment of the Third Republic. Zola eloquently describes this as 'the collapse of a world', symbolising the end of an era plagued by 'vices and faults'.

Global Conflict: Black September

• Septembre Noir (Black September) (September 1970): This term refers to a violent conflict in Jordan between the Jordanian Armed Forces and the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO). It involved a significant crackdown by the Jordanian government on Palestinian fedayeen, resulting in heavy fighting and the displacement of many Palestinians. This event had profound and lasting geopolitical consequences in the Middle East, influencing regional stability and the trajectory of the Palestinian liberation movement. The phrase is often invoked to describe similar brutal suppressions, highlighting its historical weight.

Folklore and Faith: September's Saints and Sayings

Throughout history, September has been interwoven with religious observances and traditional sayings, particularly those related to weather and agricultural cycles. These proverbs, often linked to the feast days of various saints, offer glimpses into past rural life and beliefs.

1st September: Saints and Sayings

• Saint Gilles (Aegidius): An ermite from the 7th century, popular due to his monastery in Saint Gilles du Gard being on a pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela. He is depicted with a hind wounded by an arrow and invoked against panic and epilepsy.
• Saint Loup (Leu of Sens): A 6th-century bishop of Sens, known for his good governance and evangelisation during his exile.
• Sayings:
  • "Pluie de Saint Gilles détruit les glands." (Rain on Saint Gilles' Day destroys acorns.)
  • "S'il pleut à la Saint Gilles, ça dure jusqu'à Saint Michel (29 septembre)." (If it rains on Saint Gilles' Day, it lasts until Saint Michael's Day.)
  • "S'il fait beau à la Saint Gilles, cela durera jusqu'à la Saint Michel (29 septembre)." (If it's fine on Saint Gilles' Day, it will last until Saint Michael's Day.)
  • "Les vents de Saint Gilles et suivant repassent en fortes bises bien souvent." (The winds of Saint Gilles and following often return as strong north winds.)
  • "A la Saint Loup, la lampe au clou." (On Saint Loup's Day, the lamp on the nail – implying shorter days requiring artificial light.)
  • "À la Saint Leu, l'ail à la terre." (On Saint Leu's Day, garlic into the ground.)

2nd September: Saints and Sayings

• Saint Agricol(e) d'Avignon: A 7th-century bishop of Avignon, known for his spiritual leadership and bringing monks from Lérins.
• Saint Antonin de Pamiers: A 2nd-century Christian martyr from Syria, who refused to sculpt pagan idols.
• Saint Ingrid de Skänninge: A 13th-century Swedish princess who founded a convent of Dominican tertiaries.
• Sayings:
  • "En septembre, Le fainéant peut aller se pendre." (In September, the lazy one can go hang themselves – implying it's a busy month for work.)
  • "Forte chaleur en septembre, a pluies d'octobre faut s'attendre." (Strong heat in September, expect October rains.)

3rd September: Saints and Sayings

• Saint Grégoire le Grand (Gregory I): A highly influential 6th-century Pope and Doctor of the Church, known for his administrative reforms, missionary efforts (especially to England), and spiritual writings like the 'Dialogues'. He is a patron of musicians and teachers.
• Saint Mansuy: The first bishop of Toul, from the 4th century, credited with evangelising his people.
• Sayings:
  • "En Septembre, si le 3 il tonne… c’est un nouveau bail pour l’automne." (In September, if it thunders on the 3rd, it's a new lease for autumn.)
  • "A la Saint Grégoire, taille ta vigne pour boire, et tonds le mouton si tu veux m'en croire.” (On Saint Gregory's Day, prune your vines for drinking, and shear the sheep if you believe me.)
  • "À la Saint Grégoire, tailler sa vigne, c'est de l'or.” (On Saint Gregory's Day, pruning your vines is gold.)
  • "Pluie du jour de saint Grégoire, autant de vin de plus à boire." (Rain on Saint Gregory's Day, that much more wine to drink.)
  • "A la Saint Mansuy, les veillées au pays." (On Saint Mansuy's Day, evening gatherings begin in the countryside.)

4th September: Saints and Sayings

• Saint Babylas: A 3rd-century bishop of Antioch, martyred with three young disciples.
• Saint Marin de Rimini: A 4th-century hermit, whose tomb became the foundation of the Republic of San Marino.
• Saint Rosalie: A 12th-century virgin from Palermo, Sicily, revered as the city's patroness, whose body was miraculously found in a cave.
• Saint Rose de Viterbe: A 13th-century Franciscan tertiary known for her piety and austerity from a young age.
• Saint Sulpice: A 9th-century bishop of Bayeux, martyred during the Norman invasions.
• Sayings:
  • "Pluie de septembre, pluie de novembre, seront gelées en décembre." (September rain, November rain, will be frozen in December.)
  • "Septembre se nomme le mai de l'Automne." (September is called the May of Autumn.)

5th September: Saints and Sayings

• Saint Bertin de Luxeuil: A 7th-century Benedictine abbot who helped evangelise pagans in the Thérouanne region and founded the monastery of Sithiu.
• Saint Laurent Justinien: The first patriarch of Venice in the 15th century, known for his simple lifestyle and dedication to his diocese.
• Saint Raïssa: A 4th-century martyr from Egypt, who bravely chose to join a group of persecuted Christians.
• Sayings:
  • "Le cinq de la lune on verra quel temps tout le mois donnera, Pourvu que des jours le sixième reste le même qu’au cinquième." (The fifth day of the moon will show what weather the whole month will bring, provided that the sixth day remains the same as the fifth.)
  • "En septembre, si trois jours il tonne, C'est un nouveau bail pour l'automne." (In September, if it thunders for three days, it's a new lease for autumn.)
  • "Septembre se montre souvent comme un second et court printemps." (September often appears like a second, short spring.)

September: A Month of Renewal and Reflection

Beyond its historical and linguistic peculiarities, September holds a profound symbolic meaning as a month of renewal. It’s a time when the natural world transitions, offering a fresh perspective and a unique atmosphere. The shift from summer’s vibrancy to autumn’s mellow hues is a spectacle of nature, inviting contemplation and introspection.

The ‘flamboyant forest’ of September, with trees adorned in their ‘most beautiful colours’ – reds, oranges, and yellows – creates a symphony of visual delight. This natural artistry serves as a gentle reminder of life's cyclical nature, where endings pave the way for new beginnings. The soft murmurs of leaves dancing in the cool September wind are often perceived as a soothing melody, carrying away worries and ushering in a sense of calm. The quiet mornings, with birds awakening gently, evoke a feeling of peace and a fresh start, even as the days shorten.

The distinctive scent of September rain, moistening the earth, fills the air with an invigorating aroma, a true olfactory symphony that delights the senses. This atmospheric richness contributes to the month's character as a period of sensory awakening. Furthermore, September is traditionally a month of harvest. Fields laden with golden crops symbolise the fruits of hard labour and the abundance of nature. Metaphorically, these 'harvests of the soul' represent personal growth and transformations, marking victories and lessons learned as time progresses.

September, therefore, is not merely a segment of the year but a dynamic period that encapsulates both conclusion and commencement. It is a time for reflection on what has been achieved and an anticipation of what lies ahead, making it a truly captivating and inspiring month for many.

Frequently Asked Questions About September

Why is September called September if it's the ninth month?

The name 'September' comes from the Latin word 'septem', meaning 'seven'. This is because in the original Roman calendar, which began in March, September was indeed the seventh month. Later calendar reforms shifted the start of the year to January, but the month names, based on their old numerical positions, remained.

What significant historical events happened in September?

September has witnessed several pivotal historical moments, particularly in France. These include the 'Massacres of September' during the French Revolution in 1792, the declaration of the French Republic on 22 September 1792, the enactment of the repressive 'Lois de Septembre' in 1835, and the fall of the Second Empire on 4 September 1870. Globally, 'Black September' in 1970 refers to the conflict between Jordanian forces and Palestinian organisations.

Why is September often considered a month of renewal?

September marks the transition from summer to autumn in the Northern Hemisphere. This seasonal shift brings cooler weather, changing foliage, and a general sense of refreshment. For many, it signifies the start of a new academic year, a return to routines, and the beginning of the harvest season, all contributing to a feeling of new beginnings and opportunities for reflection and growth.

Are there any specific traditions or sayings associated with September?

Yes, many traditional sayings and proverbs are linked to September, often tied to the feast days of various saints. These 'dictons' frequently relate to weather predictions, agricultural activities (like pruning vines or shearing sheep), and the general characteristics of the season. For example, sayings about rain on certain saint days predicting future weather patterns, or advice on farming tasks, are common.

How many days does September have?

September has thirty days.

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