It is known as ‘la destra’ in Italian. That is the word for ‘right’ and is even used in political terms. However, the left is known as ‘la sinistra’, and yes, that is very similar to ’sinister’, the English word.

And yes, it too is used to denote political terms in Italy, notably for communism.

So, what is behind a word? Meaning. Everything.

I learned why the left is sinister after all. The Orphics and other ancient mystery cults designated this term for when one ventured into Hades, into Tartarus, into the underworld. When you were faced with the goddess, you were either accepted – taken by the right hand – or rejected which was to be taken by the left hand. This meant annihalation.

What is behind a word is meaning, and in this is everything. Your soul’s fate is at stake.