Talk of the devil

[flump1]

" talk of the devil and he is sure to appear" Why do we say this and where did it originate from ?

[shaneystar2]

Some info here
http://www.phrases.org.uk/meanings/speak-of-th e-devil.html

[flump1]

Shaney thanks for that link, X

[kempie]

Another version which I have heard (and used) is
"talk of the Devil and his imp appears".

This variant is described as being of German origin and so I am somewhat surprised that shaneystar2 didn't make reference to it.

[flump1]

Thanks for that kempie. I have not heard of that before , his imp might be worse than himself !!!

[shaneystar2]

I have never ever heard anyone say this is in German ...they say the same thing..Wenn man vom Teufel spricht, dann ist er nicht weit."
Talk of the devil, and he is bound to appear.
It may well be a German proverb but not one in common usage.