Port na bPucaí: Representations of solitude, isolation and otherworldly encounters in Irish poetry and folk theatre

Port na bPucaí or the tune of the fairies is a well-known piece in Irish traditional music that is reputed to have been heard by a musician during a period of solitude. It reflects a common motif in Irish folklore whereby individuals are inspired by or develop their craft and skills in solitude with suggestions of spiritual otherworldly assistance. The tale and tune are represented in Irish poetry and folk theatre. In this paper, I critically consider how the work of Irish poet Séamus Heaney and the theatre company Siamsa Tíre, the National Folk Theatre of Ireland incorporates or is inspired by folklore and music related to solitude, isolation and encounters with an otherworld or spiritual dimension. Although there is no connection between the poet and the theatre company, I draw on three examples in which Heaney and Siamsa Tíre draw on similar points of inspiration from folklife and lore, reflecting the link between literature, art and folk culture. The examples reflect themes of solitude and isolation, both in relation to individuals and communities, and the creativity, wisdom and understanding attributed to moments of isolation. The article also reflects on the creative process and the importance of solitude for the artists