Meaning: The quote "I do identify with St. Patrick, not just in name. He drove the snakes out of Ireland. I intend to drive the snakes out of the State House." was spoken by Deval Patrick, an American politician who served as the 71st governor of Massachusetts from 2007 to 2015. This quote draws a parallel between Patrick and St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, who is traditionally credited with driving the snakes out of Ireland. In this context, "snakes" symbolize the negative influences or corrupt practices that Deval Patrick aimed to eliminate from the government, particularly the State House in Massachusetts.

Deval Patrick's reference to St. Patrick and the act of driving out the snakes holds historical, cultural, and symbolic significance. St. Patrick, who lived in the 5th century, is a revered figure in Irish history and is credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland. The legend of St. Patrick driving out the snakes is widely interpreted as a metaphor for his efforts to rid the island of pagan beliefs and practices. While the historical accuracy of the snake expulsion is debated, the story has become a powerful symbol of purification and the triumph of good over evil.

In applying this metaphor to his own political context, Deval Patrick sought to convey his commitment to cleansing the State House of corrupt influences and unethical practices. By aligning himself with St. Patrick's mission, he presented himself as a reformer and a leader who aimed to bring integrity and righteousness to the government.

The State House, as referenced in the quote, holds particular significance as the seat of government in Massachusetts. It is where laws are made, decisions are taken, and policies are formulated. Therefore, driving the "snakes" out of the State House can be interpreted as a call to root out dishonesty, misconduct, and self-serving behaviors among political leaders and officials. By evoking the image of St. Patrick's purging of Ireland, Deval Patrick emphasized his determination to bring about positive change and moral renewal within the political sphere.

Deval Patrick's use of this quote also reflects the power of symbolism in political rhetoric. By invoking a widely recognized and celebrated figure like St. Patrick, he tapped into the collective cultural consciousness and drew upon the positive associations and attributes associated with the saint. This allowed him to align his own agenda with the values of righteousness, justice, and ethical governance, thereby seeking to inspire trust and confidence in his leadership.

Furthermore, the quote serves as a testament to the enduring relevance of historical and mythological narratives in shaping contemporary discourse. By drawing on the legacy of St. Patrick, Deval Patrick connected his own aspirations for political reform with a timeless and resonant story that continues to capture the imagination of people. This demonstrates the enduring power of storytelling and symbolism in conveying messages and mobilizing support for a cause.

In conclusion, Deval Patrick's quote "I do identify with St. Patrick, not just in name. He drove the snakes out of Ireland. I intend to drive the snakes out of the State House." encapsulates his commitment to reform and integrity in governance. By drawing a parallel between himself and the legendary actions of St. Patrick, he sought to position himself as a leader dedicated to purging the political arena of negative influences and fostering a climate of honesty and accountability. This quote not only illustrates the use of symbolism in political communication but also underscores the resonance of historical and cultural narratives in shaping contemporary discourse.