Loose Cannon

Scottish Country Dance Instruction

1-8 Dancers 1,2,5,6 dance R&L (dancers 1+6 also 2+5 giving RH to begin) while on bar 3, dancer 7 dances down between 1,2,5,6, sets to dancer 3 (bars 5-6), sets to dancer 4 (bar 7-8)
9-12 ½ reels of 3 on the sides with dancer 7 dancing close behind dancer 4. Dancer 7 crosses to opposite side on bar 12
13-16 ½ reels of 3 on the sides with dancer 7 dancing close behind dancer 3. Dancer 7 finishes in the centre (Dancers 1,2,3,4,5,6 dance full reels of 3)
17-24 Dancers 1,2,3,4,5,6 circle round and back as dancer 7 sets in the centre. All finish in original places.
25-28 All chase clockwise ½ way round
29-32 All dance RH across to finish one place clockwise from original position
Finish:
2    3
1    4
7    5
   6
   Top

(MINICRIB. Dance crib compiled by Charles Upton, Deeside Caledonian Society, and his successors)

Keith Rose's Crib Diagrams

Loose Cannon - Full Size And Key To Symbols

Dance Information

The origin of the phrase can be traced back to naval warfare, where cannons on ships were mounted on wheeled carriages. These cannons were incredibly heavy and dangerous if they became unsecured, rolling freely on the deck during rough seas or battle, potentially causing severe damage to the ship and injuring crew members. This historical imagery is where the phrase gets its connotation of unpredictability and danger.

When used to describe a person, a "loose cannon" refers to someone whose behaviour or actions are erratic and potentially harmful, often because they act impulsively or without regard for the consequences. This might be someone who speaks out of turn, makes rash decisions, or disrupts a team or organisation by not adhering to norms or expectations. While such individuals can sometimes bring fresh perspectives or bold ideas, their lack of restraint can lead to problems, especially in situations requiring diplomacy or careful coordination.