Since I am on the theme of Selkie’s for this week’s weekly dose of Irish. I thought, why not include one of the most famous poems(ballads) on Selkies?
“The Great Silkie of Sule Skerry” is arguably the most famous poem and folk ballad concerning selkies. Its haunting melody and poignant lyrics have captivated many, making it a staple in the repertoire of traditional Scottish and Orcadian music.
Now, if you try and read the poem at first glance, it isn’t the easiest poem to read, but essentially, the ballad narrates the story of a selkie man who predicts the fate of his son, born from his union with a human woman.
This tale, with its themes of loss, prophecy, and the inevitable pull of the selkie’s true nature, embodies the mystical essence and tragic beauty that often characterizes selkie folklore. And don’t worry. I have included a musical rendition underneath the poem that I am sure you will love.
Its widespread appeal and numerous renditions by folk musicians highlight its enduring place in the heart of selkie mythology.
The Great Silkie of Sule Skerry
And aye she sings, “Ba, lily wean!
Little ken I my bairnis father,
Far less the land that he staps in.”Then ane arose at her bed-fit,
An’ a grumly guest I’m sure was he:
“Here am I, thy bairnis father,
Although that I be not comelie.“I am a man upo the lan,
An’ I am a silkie in the sea,
And when I’m far and far frae lan,
My dwelling is in Sule Skerrie.”
“It was na weel,” quo the maiden fair,
“It was na weel, indeed,” quo she,
“That the Great Silkie of Sule Skerrie
Suld hae come and aught a bairn to me.”
Now he has taen a purse of goud,
And he has pat it upo her knee,
Sayin, “Gie to me my little young son,
An’ tak thee up thy nourris-fee.”
“An’ it sall come to pass on a simmer’s day,
When the sin shines het on evera stane,
That I will tak my little young son,
An’ teach him for to swim the faem.
“An’ thu sall marry a proud gunner,
An’ a proud gunner I’m sure he’ll be,
An’ the very first shot that ere he shoots,