Ireland’s older musical forms are clearly related to the traditions of Brittany in France and Galicia in Spain, and as such present clear evidence of a shared cultural heritage that is usually labelled “Celtic”. This does not constitute evidence of any “racial” or ethnic connection, but would seem to confirm logical historical maritime links with the island’s continental neighbours.

There are several beautiful old songs and poems lamenting Ireland’s sad history. There are also many C19th dirges that merely wallow in self-pity. In keeping with this embarrassing trend, some descendants of the “Irish Diaspora” in America have tended to glorify verses displaying an unedifying mixture of sickly sweet sentimentality and bilious hatred.

The songs and poems on this website have been chosen simply because we like them and / or find them interesting / reflective of historical attitudes.