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Irish Storytelling: Preserving a Vital Tradition

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  Published in Business and Finance on Saturday, February 21st 2026 at 15:03 GMT by The Irish News
      Locales: UNITED KINGDOM, IRELAND

Saturday, February 21st, 2026 - For centuries, the art of seanchas - traditional Irish storytelling - has been the lifeblood of Irish culture. More than mere entertainment, it served as a vital means of preserving history, laws, genealogy, and moral codes in a pre-literate society. Today, despite the dominance of modern media, the flame of Irish storytelling continues to burn brightly, informing the work of contemporary artists like Lola Petticrew and reminding us of the enduring power of oral tradition. Petticrew, as highlighted in a recent interview, eloquently articulates the deep resonance these narratives hold, and the crucial need for their preservation.

Before the written word became widespread in Ireland, knowledge and culture were passed down through generations by seanchaithe - professional storytellers, keepers of lore, and living libraries. These individuals weren't simply reciting tales; they were performing history, breathing life into ancestors, and connecting people to the land. Stories weren't static; they evolved with each telling, adapting to the audience and the teller's own creativity while maintaining the core essence of the narrative. This dynamic nature is a key distinction between Irish storytelling and other forms of narrative.

The unique characteristics of Irish storytelling, as Petticrew points out, are deeply intertwined with the country's mythology, folklore, and profound connection to the landscape. The myths of the Tuatha De Danann, the struggles of Cu Chulainn, the tales of Fionn mac Cumhaill and the Fianna - these aren't simply fantastical stories. They're reflections of the Irish worldview, imbued with symbolism and meaning relating to the natural world, societal values, and the human condition. The landscape itself is often a character in these tales; ancient sites like Newgrange and the Giant's Causeway aren't just geological formations, but portals to other realms and locations of significant events in mythology.

This connection to place is particularly significant. Stories are frequently rooted in specific geographical locations, imbuing those places with spiritual and historical weight. Knowing the story of a place, according to tradition, is akin to knowing the place itself. This creates a profound sense of belonging and reinforces the importance of preserving both the narratives and the landscapes they describe.

The impact of this tradition extends far beyond historical preservation. Irish storytelling has deeply influenced Irish literature, music, theatre, and visual arts. Writers like Yeats, Joyce, and Heaney drew heavily on Irish mythology and folklore, reimagining ancient tales and incorporating their themes into their own work. Traditional Irish music is often accompanied by storytelling, and many songs recount historical events or legendary figures. Contemporary artists like Petticrew are continuing this legacy, finding inspiration in these ancient narratives and using them to explore modern themes.

However, the tradition of seanchas faces challenges in the 21st century. The decline in the use of the Irish language, coupled with the prevalence of mass media, has led to a diminishing number of fluent storytellers. Efforts are underway to revitalize the tradition, including the establishment of storytelling festivals, workshops, and educational programs. Digital platforms are also playing a role, allowing storytellers to reach wider audiences and preserve their work for future generations. The interview with Lola Petticrew emphasizes the personal responsibility artists feel toward maintaining this heritage.

The preservation of Irish storytelling isn't simply about safeguarding cultural artifacts; it's about maintaining a vital connection to the past and fostering a sense of identity and belonging. These stories offer valuable insights into the Irish character, values, and worldview, and they can provide guidance and inspiration for navigating the challenges of the present. By continuing to listen to, share, and create these narratives, we ensure that the legacy of the seanchaithe lives on, enriching our lives and shaping our understanding of the world. The future of Irish storytelling isn't simply about keeping the old tales alive, but about allowing them to evolve and inspire new ones, ensuring that the power of seanchas continues to resonate for generations to come. The work of artists like Lola Petticrew is a vital part of this ongoing process, bridging the gap between the ancient tradition and the contemporary world.