Copied from another web site, where the discussion was why do so many people say “F@@k that hurt” when for example you hit your thumb instead of the nail:
Well, when accidentally hitting my thumb with a hammer, I try not to use christian blasphemy.
Instead, I think of my ancestors, in times long gone.
Under duress, they would summon the four Elf Kings to their defence. The Elf King from North would bring down a bitter cold and freeze our enemies to death. The Elf King from the East could turn their lands into arid deserts. We only needed to wait until they perished. The Elf King from the south brought a vicious hot wind - our enemies died quickly for lack of water. The Elf King from the West controlled a huge Ocean. At his command, the waters would surge into a tidal wave and overwhelm our adversaries.
Yes, I know that this is only legend and cannot possibly be true. But - and I guess it is just instinctive in my culture - I just automatically summon these Elf Kings if I hit my thumb.
“Four King Elves” is typical of what I say.
Sorry, I’ll get my coat………….