The Tale of Lir and His Enchanted Children
Background
Lir resided in the realm of Sídh Fionnachaidh, an area linked to the maritime imagery that bonds him to Manannán Mac Lir, the god of the sea.
The Story of Lir
Lir’s tribulations began when Bodhbh Dearg, known as Bov the Red, ascended to the throne of the Tuatha Dé Danann. Lir, convinced that he was a more deserving candidate, felt a deep sense of discontent and chose to depart from the gathering in silence. In a gesture of reconciliation, Bodhbh Dearg later offered Aobh, his stepdaughter, as a wife for Lir. Aobh, the elder and distinguished daughter of Ailill of Aran, became Lir’s companion.
Contentment enveloped Lir and Aobh as their union blessed them with a daughter named Fionnuala and a son named Aed. However, their joy was short-lived, as Aobh succumbed to death while giving birth to identical twin boys, Conn and Fiacra. Devastated by the tragedy, Lir was soon offered another chance at love through Aoife, Aobh’s younger sister. Their marriage rekindled Lir’s happiness, and he lavished affection on his children. They all shared a chamber, allowing Lir to witness their slumber every night and greet them each morning upon waking.
As time passed, Aoife’s envy of Lir’s devotion to the children grew. Blinded by jealousy, she transformed the children into swans. In desperation, Lir pursued his swan children to Lake Derravarragh, where he established a dwelling to remain close to them. This devotion helped foster a community around him, and Bodhbh joined them, bringing a measure of joy despite their grim circumstances. The swan children would enchant everyone with their melodious songs, offering healing to those burdened by sorrow, providing solace to Lir and his followers.
Their tranquil existence at Lake Derravarragh did not endure, as they spent three centuries there before their fate beckoned them to the tumultuous Sea of Moyle (Sruth na Maoile). After another span of three centuries, the swan children began their journey from the Sea of Moyle to the vast Atlantic Ocean. As they flew over Sídh Fionnachaidh in search of their father and kin, they discovered only a grassy mound, for the Tuatha Dé Danann had vanished into the earth long ago.
Conclusion
Lir, embodying the essence of a devoted father, cherished his children during a tumultuous era, living through the twilight of the Tuatha Dé Danann before their permanent descent underground.
