sam s lokotok, a nos s korobok

[Robert Chandler]

Dear all,

This is from a Nebylitsa, a 'cock and bull' story:
Вот родился у нас отец, сам с локоток, а нос с коробок.

I understand the lokotok as a measure of length (a cubit, I think).  But what is the point of the korobok?  Is it that his nose is square?  That it is large (in spite of the diminutive ending!)?

I do realize that sound here is more important than sense.  Nevertheless, I would prefer to have a clearer idea of what sense might be there!

All the best,

Robert



Robert Chandler, 42 Milson Road, London, W14 OLD

tel. +44 207 603 3862





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