The combination of iconic animated characters with imagery associated with Irish culture results in a specific type of digital image resource. These graphics often depict familiar characters adorned with shamrocks, leprechaun hats, or other St. Patrick’s Day-themed accessories. They are frequently employed in digital projects, presentations, and printed materials celebrating the holiday. As an example, one might find Mickey Mouse dressed in green, surrounded by pots of gold, intended for use in a classroom handout.
The utilization of such images offers several advantages. They can add a touch of whimsy and familiarity to holiday-themed content, particularly appealing to younger audiences and families. The integration of widely recognized characters can increase engagement and visual interest. Historically, the combination of established brands with seasonal events has been a successful marketing and promotional strategy, leveraging pre-existing recognition to enhance appeal.
Subsequent sections will explore appropriate usage, sources for acquisition, design considerations, and potential copyright implications related to utilizing these character-themed holiday graphics.
1. Character recognition
Character recognition serves as a cornerstone in the effectiveness of holiday-themed digital imagery. The immediate identification of familiar figures provides an entry point for engagement and emotional connection, particularly within the context of festive celebrations like St. Patrick’s Day.
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Brand Association
Familiar characters carry inherent brand associations. The incorporation of a well-known cartoon personality instantly evokes feelings and connections associated with that brand. When said character is combined with elements of an unrelated holiday like St. Patrick’s Day, the brand benefits from the overlap and association, creating a potentially powerful marketing tool. For example, the use of a universally recognized mouse character dressed in green attire immediately signals a playful and festive atmosphere while leveraging brand equity.
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Emotional Connection
Repeated exposure to animated personalities throughout childhood and beyond fosters emotional links. These can range from feelings of nostalgia to general positive affect. When such characters are placed within a celebratory context like St. Patrick’s Day, these pre-existing emotional links amplify the emotional impact of the holiday imagery. The effect is a more potent and engaging communication strategy than using generic, unbranded artwork.
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Cross-Generational Appeal
Certain characters transcend generational boundaries, maintaining popularity across different age groups. This widespread appeal offers the possibility of crafting imagery that resonates with a broad audience, increasing its overall effectiveness. In the context of St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, this could result in a single image being understood and appreciated by children, parents, and grandparents alike, forging a shared experience.
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Simplified Communication
The use of recognizable animated individuals streamlines communication. The characters often embody certain traits or values, which are instantly conveyed without requiring explicit explanation. The audience immediately understands the intended mood or message, reducing the cognitive load required to process the information. A quick glance at such an image immediately communicates celebration, joy, and a positive brand association.
The power of character recognition lies in its ability to distill complex messages and emotions into easily digestible visuals. The presence of recognizable characters elevates holiday-themed imagery beyond mere decoration, transforming it into a potent tool for engagement, emotional connection, and brand reinforcement. This interplay of familiarity and festive context enhances the overall effectiveness of communication, forging lasting impressions and associations.
2. Holiday Association
The infusion of seasonal spirit is vital to the appeal of branded visuals. The pairing of iconic characters with a holiday motif enhances the message, creating a strong connection with viewers during specific times of celebration. St. Patrick’s Day, with its cultural symbols and festive traditions, provides fertile ground for this type of visual storytelling.
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Cultural Symbolism
St. Patrick’s Day is steeped in cultural symbolism, including shamrocks, leprechauns, and pots of gold. When familiar characters are integrated with these symbols, the imagery resonates deeply with audiences familiar with the holiday’s traditions. The use of green attire on a recognizable animated animal, for instance, instantly connects to the celebration, grounding the digital asset within a familiar cultural context. This association triggers a positive emotional response, drawing the viewer closer to the intended message.
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Seasonal Relevance
The fleeting nature of holidays creates a sense of urgency and specialness. Integrating characters with St. Patrick’s Day imagery caters to this temporal relevance, making content more appealing during the specific period. This tactic creates higher engagement rates, as content is perceived as timely and relevant to the user’s current state of mind. Using such imagery outside of the holiday window diminishes the impact of the association.
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Thematic Consistency
Effective holiday association demands thematic consistency. The visual elements must complement both the character and the holiday. Ill-considered pairings can lead to dissonance, diluting the impact. Consider the careful selection of colors, props, and background elements to reinforce the St. Patrick’s Day theme without overpowering the character’s established identity. The intent should be seamless integration that amplifies the appeal of both aspects.
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Emotional Resonance
Holidays possess a potent emotional charge. Combining iconic animated figures with St. Patrick’s Day evokes positive feelings of joy, community, and tradition. This creates a strong bond between the viewer, the image, and the entity the image represents. The calculated harnessing of emotional resonance allows for a more profound connection to occur. A character happily brandishing a shamrock can transcend the purely visual and touch upon shared cultural sentiments.
The power of merging holiday spirit with character recognition lies in the skillful weaving of cultural symbols, temporal relevance, thematic consistency, and emotional resonance. Careful consideration of these factors ensures the creation of impactful, memorable, and effective assets during the St. Patrick’s Day celebration, building stronger relationships with audiences.
3. Digital Availability
The story of character-themed, holiday-centric artwork hinges on its accessibility within the digital realm. In an era defined by instant gratification and widespread internet connectivity, the ease with which these graphics can be located, accessed, and deployed dictates their impact and prevalence. The narrative unfolds with the central character of digital availability, influencing all aspects of these seasonal visual elements.
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Ubiquitous Search Engines
The digital landscape is dominated by search engines, serving as primary gateways to information. The ease with which these seasonal images surface during relevant queries directly impacts their visibility and utilization. If a user cannot readily locate an appropriate graphic when searching for St. Patrick’s Day-themed content, the impact diminishes. This accessibility, or lack thereof, molds the user experience and shapes content creation trends. A well-optimized image with proper metadata can rise through the ranks, influencing countless projects and social media posts, demonstrating the quiet power of search engine optimization.
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Online Marketplaces and Repositories
Numerous platforms exist solely for the purpose of buying, selling, or freely distributing digital assets. These online repositories serve as centralized hubs where users seek creative resources, including character-based holiday graphics. The structure of these marketplaces, ease of navigation, and search functionality all significantly impact the discoverability and utilization of the art. An artist’s work relegated to the digital backwaters, buried beneath countless irrelevant listings, remains unseen and unappreciated. Conversely, a well-placed, easily accessible asset gains traction and weaves its way into the digital tapestry of St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
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Social Media Sharing
Social media platforms function as powerful conduits for the dissemination of visual content. The ability to rapidly share and propagate images across networks amplifies their reach exponentially. Character-themed holiday graphics gain viral potential when easily shared and readily incorporated into social media posts and campaigns. This rapid spread extends the graphic’s influence and impact far beyond its initial creators. An image resonating with online communities can be catapulted to viral status, becoming an integral component of the collective online St. Patrick’s Day experience.
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Licensing and Copyright Access
The story of digital availability is inextricably linked to the legal framework governing intellectual property. While many seek free assets, the availability of properly licensed artwork ensures both ethical and legal usage. Transparent licensing terms and affordable options encourage creators to utilize character-themed visuals without fear of legal repercussions. The ready availability of authorized assets safeguards the integrity of brand identities and cultivates a sustainable ecosystem for content creation. When such terms become complex or unclear, confusion and hesitancy arise, effectively limiting the graphic’s availability and diminishing its positive impact.
In summation, digital availability serves as a critical determinant in the trajectory of Disney St Patrick’s Day clip art. Search engine optimization, marketplace visibility, social media propagation, and readily accessible licensing all converge to shape the narrative of these visual assets. The ease or difficulty in locating, accessing, and legally utilizing these resources directly impacts their influence, reach, and the overall cultural narrative surrounding St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the digital age.
4. Copyright adherence
The intersection of copyrighted material and festive celebrations presents a complex landscape, demanding careful navigation. Specifically, the use of iconic characters in association with holidays raises significant legal considerations. The act of incorporating familiar figures into St. Patrick’s Day themes necessitates diligent adherence to copyright law to prevent potential infringement.
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Ownership and Licensing
Copyright law vests ownership of creative works, including character depictions, in their creators or assignees. Large entertainment entities, such as those responsible for iconic animated personalities, zealously guard their intellectual property. Utilizing these characters, even in a non-commercial context, often requires obtaining explicit permission through licensing agreements. The absence of such authorization constitutes infringement, exposing the user to potential legal action. The complexities extend to derivative works; simply altering a copyrighted character does not automatically negate the need for a license. The onus falls upon the user to verify the terms of use and secure appropriate clearances.
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Fair Use Doctrine
The fair use doctrine provides a limited exception to copyright protection, permitting the use of copyrighted material under specific circumstances, such as criticism, commentary, or education. However, the application of fair use is highly fact-dependent and subject to judicial interpretation. The use of character-themed graphics in a commercial context rarely qualifies as fair use. Even in non-profit scenarios, factors such as the amount of the work used, its purpose, and its impact on the market for the original work weigh heavily in the analysis. Reliance on fair use without legal consultation is a risky proposition.
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Public Domain Considerations
Certain characters and artistic works eventually enter the public domain, meaning their copyright protection expires, and they become freely available for use. However, this is generally not the case for prominent, modern characters from major entertainment companies. Furthermore, while some elements might enter the public domain, distinctive aspects of the character’s presentation may remain protected under trademark law. Careful scrutiny is crucial before assuming that a particular character or design is free for unrestricted use.
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Consequences of Infringement
Copyright infringement carries potential consequences ranging from cease-and-desist letters to monetary damages and legal injunctions. Organizations found to be using copyrighted characters without authorization may face significant financial penalties and reputational damage. Individuals, too, can be held liable for infringing actions. Proactive due diligence, including seeking legal advice and obtaining necessary licenses, is essential to mitigate these risks.
The use of character artwork in festive contexts requires careful consideration. Disney St Patrick’s Day clip art is a case study in the complexities of copyright. Navigating this field demands respect for intellectual property rights, a thorough understanding of legal doctrines, and a commitment to ethical practices. Blindly adopting such imagery without proper authorization can lead to adverse consequences, underscoring the importance of proactive copyright adherence.
5. Design application
The successful integration of animated personalities with holiday themes hinges critically on thoughtful and considered design application. Poor execution undermines the inherent appeal of familiar characters and the festive spirit of St. Patrick’s Day, resulting in visuals that are jarring rather than engaging. The aesthetic choices and the principles guiding their implementation become paramount.
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Composition and Layout
The arrangement of elements within the frame dictates the visual hierarchy and overall impact. A cluttered composition featuring various elements vying for attention dilutes the message. Conversely, a well-structured layout, guiding the eye through the scene and emphasizing the core character and St. Patrick’s Day thematic elements, strengthens the communication. Consider the use of negative space to highlight the primary subject, ensuring that the character remains the focal point. The interplay between the character, holiday symbols, and any accompanying text must be carefully balanced to create a unified and visually pleasing design.
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Color Palette and Harmony
Color serves as a powerful tool for evoking emotion and establishing thematic connections. While green is synonymous with St. Patrick’s Day, an overreliance on this single hue can lead to a monotonous and visually unappealing design. A thoughtful palette incorporates complementary colors that enhance the green without overpowering it. The colors chosen should align with the character’s established identity and the overall mood of the celebration. Muted tones can evoke a sense of nostalgia, while vibrant colors convey energy and excitement. The successful blending of color requires sensitivity to visual balance and thematic relevance.
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Typography and Legibility
The selection and application of typography plays a critical role in conveying the message and enhancing the visual aesthetic. A font that is difficult to read undermines the communication, regardless of how appealing the character or thematic elements might be. The chosen typeface should complement the character’s style and the overall tone of the design. Decorative fonts can add a touch of whimsy, but they should be used sparingly to maintain legibility. Furthermore, the size, spacing, and color of the text must be carefully considered to ensure that it stands out against the background and remains easily readable across various devices and screen sizes. Alignment and consistent style contributes to a unified and professional look.
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Resolution and Scalability
The technical quality of the design directly affects its versatility and impact. Low-resolution images appear pixelated and unprofessional, diminishing the effectiveness of the communication. High-resolution artwork maintains its clarity and detail when scaled to various sizes, ensuring that it looks sharp whether displayed on a small mobile screen or a large billboard. Vector-based designs offer the greatest flexibility, as they can be scaled infinitely without losing quality. The design should also be optimized for various display environments, taking into account factors such as screen resolution, color profiles, and file size limitations. Failure to address these technical considerations can undermine the overall visual impact and limit the design’s usability.
In the landscape of Disney St. Patrick’s Day clip art, design application serves as the bridge between concept and execution. Compositional harmony, a considered palette, legible typography, and impeccable resolution converge to transform simple artwork into compelling visuals that resonate with audiences and amplify the spirit of the holiday.
6. Emotional appeal
In the realm of visual communication, an emotional appeal acts as a potent catalyst, transforming a simple image into a memorable experience. Disney St. Patrick’s Day clip art is not merely about combining animated icons with festive symbols; it’s about tapping into the reservoir of emotions linked with childhood nostalgia, cultural celebration, and the shared human experience of joy.
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Nostalgic Resonance
Familiar characters from childhood evoke powerful feelings of nostalgia. These animated personalities become ingrained in our formative years, representing innocence, adventure, and the simple joys of life. When these figures are intertwined with St. Patrick’s Day imagery, a potent blend of past and present emerges. For instance, viewing a beloved bear sporting a shamrock can transport one back to simpler times, triggering a sense of warmth and familiarity that transcends the purely visual. This resonance fosters a deeper connection to the message and the brand it represents, moving beyond superficial engagement.
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Cultural Connection
St. Patrick’s Day is not simply a holiday; it is a celebration of Irish heritage and culture. Integrating well-known animated characters with symbols such as shamrocks, leprechauns, and pots of gold creates a bridge between the familiar and the cultural. A recognizable mouse playfully interacting with these traditional elements can spark a sense of cultural pride and connection, particularly for those with Irish ancestry. The combination elevates the image beyond a mere decorative element, transforming it into a symbol of cultural identity and belonging.
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Shared Joy and Festivity
Holidays are inherently linked with emotions of joy, celebration, and togetherness. Disney St. Patrick’s Day clip art leverages this association by positioning iconic figures within a context of festive cheer. The imagery serves as a visual reminder of shared traditions and communal experiences. A character cheerfully brandishing a flag, can elicit feelings of happiness and excitement, fostering a sense of unity and camaraderie. The visual becomes a catalyst for emotional connection, inviting viewers to participate in the spirit of the holiday and share in the collective joy.
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Brand Affinity Reinforcement
Emotional connection directly impacts brand perception and loyalty. When familiar characters are associated with positive emotions related to a holiday, the brand itself benefits from this association. The image serves as a subtle reminder of the values and feelings connected with the brand. For example, a beloved lion adorned with shamrocks reinforces the brand’s image as family-friendly, whimsical, and capable of generating positive emotions. This emotional alignment fosters stronger customer loyalty and increases the likelihood of future engagement.
The interplay of nostalgia, cultural connection, shared joy, and brand affinity highlights the importance of emotional appeal in relation to cartoon-themed visuals. The successful application transcends the purely visual, tapping into the deepest aspects of human emotion and creating a lasting impact, ultimately elevating these images into something more than just holiday decoration.
Frequently Asked Questions
The digital landscape brims with creative possibilities, yet also presents a minefield of legal and ethical considerations. This section addresses common inquiries surrounding the use of recognizable characters in conjunction with St. Patrick’s Day themes, aiming to provide clarity and guidance through this complex terrain.
Question 1: Is using cartoon characters in St. Patrick’s Day designs without permission always illegal?
Imagine a vast kingdom governed by the laws of copyright. Within this kingdom reside iconic figures, each protected by the crown. Simply borrowing these figures, even to celebrate a festive occasion, constitutes an act of transgression. While exceptions, such as “fair use,” exist, these are narrow paths, easily leading astray. The safest course lies in securing the blessing of the crown obtaining explicit permission through licensing before incorporating these characters into any design, commercial or otherwise. Failing to do so risks incurring the crown’s displeasure, resulting in penalties and legal entanglements.
Question 2: Where can legitimately licensed images of characters celebrating St. Patrick’s Day be found?
The search for legally sanctioned artwork resembles a quest for a hidden treasure. The map to this treasure lies in reputable stock photo agencies, official merchandise outlets, and direct commissions from artists possessing the necessary licenses. Beware of shadowy corners of the internet promising riches for nothing. These sites often harbor counterfeit goods, leading to legal peril. Verify the authenticity of the source and scrutinize the licensing terms with meticulous care before acquiring character-themed imagery. The genuine treasures are often guarded, requiring diligence and a discerning eye.
Question 3: Does altering a copyrighted cartoon personality for a St. Patrick’s Day design make it legally permissible to use?
Consider this a painter attempting to disguise a stolen masterpiece by altering its brushstrokes. The underlying essence, the original work of art, remains. Similarly, modifying a copyrighted image, even by adding festive elements, does not erase the original claim of ownership. The core character remains identifiable, and the act of repurposing it without permission still constitutes infringement. While the extent of the alteration may influence a legal judgment, it is a dangerous gamble to assume that slight modifications grant immunity from copyright claims.
Question 4: How does the “fair use” doctrine apply to character imagery celebrating St. Patrick’s Day?
The “fair use” doctrine acts as a loophole, a secret passage within the copyright kingdom, allowing specific, limited uses of protected materials. However, the passage is narrow, and its applicability hinges on several factors, including the purpose of the use, the nature of the copyrighted work, the amount used, and its impact on the market. Parody, criticism, and educational purposes are often cited as examples of fair use. However, simply using a character to decorate a St. Patrick’s Day advertisement rarely qualifies. Before claiming fair use, weigh the circumstances carefully, consulting legal counsel if necessary, as misinterpreting its boundaries carries significant risk.
Question 5: What steps can be taken to ensure a St. Patrick’s Day design using character imagery does not infringe on copyright?
Protecting against copyright infringement is akin to fortifying a castle against attack. The first line of defense is awareness understanding the scope of copyright law and the rights it protects. Conduct thorough research to identify the copyright holder of any character intended for use. Seek legal advice from an experienced attorney specializing in intellectual property law. Obtain written permission or licensing agreements from the copyright holder. Document all steps taken to ensure compliance. By diligently fortifying against potential threats, the castle, and the designs it contains, stand secure.
Question 6: Are public domain characters safe to use in designs associating them with St. Patrick’s Day?
The public domain represents a realm of artistic freedom, where creations are free from the constraints of copyright. However, even within this realm, caution must prevail. While the original character may be free to use, specific depictions, adaptations, and distinctive elements may still be protected by copyright or trademark. A classic tale may be public domain, but a modern film adaptation may not be. Thoroughly examine the specific version of the character being considered and ensure that it resides entirely within the public domain before incorporating it into St. Patrick’s Day designs. The allure of freedom must not overshadow the necessity of due diligence.
In essence, navigating the world of character-themed holiday imagery demands a combination of creativity and legal prudence. Thorough research, transparent licensing, and a commitment to respecting intellectual property rights are essential to avoid potential pitfalls.
Subsequent sections of this article delve further into ethical considerations and best practices for responsible content creation.
Navigating the Emerald Isle of Digital Design
The allure of intertwining beloved figures with the festive spirit of St. Patrick’s Day beckons many digital artists. However, this creative path demands careful navigation, for it is fraught with legal and ethical considerations. These guidelines offer a compass, directing toward responsible and impactful use of such imagery.
Tip 1: Scrutinize the Source: Each digital artifact possesses a provenance, a lineage tracing back to its creator. Before incorporating any character-themed graphic, investigate its origins. Is the source reputable, offering clear licensing terms? Or is it a shadowy corner of the internet, rife with potential infringements? Treat each acquisition as an archaeological dig, uncovering the truth behind the image before committing to its use.
Tip 2: License with Diligence: A license is not merely a document; it is a pact, a binding agreement defining the permitted uses of a copyrighted work. Read these pacts with the meticulous care of a scribe deciphering ancient scrolls. Understand the scope of the license is it for commercial or non-commercial use? Does it permit modifications? Is attribution required? Failure to adhere to the terms is akin to breaking a sacred oath, inviting legal repercussions.
Tip 3: Respect the Icon: Iconic characters are not simply collections of lines and colors; they are cultural touchstones, embodying years of storytelling and emotional connection. Treat them with respect, ensuring that their portrayal aligns with their established persona and values. Avoid depictions that are demeaning, offensive, or misrepresent the character’s identity. Uphold their legacy, rather than tarnishing it with insensitive or inappropriate use.
Tip 4: Embrace Originality: While the allure of familiar faces is undeniable, true artistry lies in originality. Rather than relying solely on pre-existing images, consider creating original designs inspired by the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day and recognizable characters. This may involve commissioning an artist to create unique artwork or developing one’s own distinctive style that incorporates thematic elements without directly copying copyrighted figures. Innovation is the key to leaving a lasting impression, rather than simply echoing what has come before.
Tip 5: Seek Legal Counsel: The intricacies of copyright law often resemble a labyrinth, confusing even seasoned legal professionals. When in doubt, seek the guidance of an attorney specializing in intellectual property. Their expertise can provide clarity, mitigating the risk of infringement and ensuring that creative endeavors remain on solid legal ground. Consider their counsel as a guiding star, illuminating the path through complex legal terrain.
Tip 6: Acknowledge Limitations: Not all creative visions are legally permissible. The desire to incorporate a beloved character into a St. Patrick’s Day design may be compelling, but legal constraints must ultimately prevail. Be willing to adjust or abandon ideas that infringe upon copyright law, prioritizing ethical conduct over artistic ambition. Recognizing the limits of permissible use is a sign of maturity and respect for intellectual property rights.
In conclusion, the responsible use of character-themed holiday graphics demands a delicate balance between creativity and legal awareness. By adhering to these guidelines, one can navigate the digital landscape with confidence, producing impactful designs that celebrate the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day while respecting the rights of creators and upholding ethical standards.
The subsequent sections of this article will delve into emerging trends in digital design and their potential impact on the future of character-themed holiday imagery.
Conclusion
The journey through the realm of “disney st patrick’s day clip art” reveals a landscape far more intricate than a simple merging of icons and festivities. It is a territory governed by laws both legal and aesthetic, where the allure of familiarity clashes with the imperative of originality. The exploration has charted the course from sourcing and application to copyright and ethical use, underscoring the multi-faceted considerations vital to navigating this digital terrain.
The tale does not conclude here. As technology evolves and artistic expression finds new avenues, the story of character-themed holiday imagery will continue to unfold. May future creators tread this path with both creativity and caution, honoring the past while forging a future where artistic freedom and legal responsibility dance in harmonious accord. The legacy of shamrock and mouse depends upon it.
