Encounters with the Good People

75 - Faerie Blacksmiths


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Some say the Good People are repelled by iron.

I’m not so sure….

There are many accounts of Faerie knocking on the door of a Human Blacksmith seeking their services for to shoe a Faerie Horse. The Faerie often stand by and observe the work of the Blacksmith: seemingly intrigued. Perhaps they are studying Blacksmith techniques or dare we imagine… they impressed by this noble trade?

Common too, are tales of Faerie simply taking over the Blacksmith’s Forge themselves for to undertake the necessary work. Usually under darkness of night and away from prying eyes. But they are heard and sensed. What work are they doing in the Forge? Simply shoeing their horses or perhaps constructing or repairing their own tools and weapons?

On this episode we discover:

The quickest way to identify a Faerie Horse and

If a Human Blacksmith should accept payment offered by the Faerie.

And, through true tales, old and new, ponder if the Good People look favourably upon those Humans who ply a trade and put in an honest, hard day’s work. Do they respect and value humans who work hard, who choose a trade, no matter if it is Blacksmithing, Coffin building, Basket weaving or even Storytelling, folk who continually build on their skills and in the doing, help others. Tune in and make up your own mind!

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PRIZE GIVEAWAY

To celebrate Irish Storyteller Steve Lally’s first visit to Encounters with the Good People, we have a beautiful book to giveaway.

I’m delighted to offer a hardcover copy of the recently published book ‘The Anthology of Irish Folk Tales’ to one lucky listener. This enchanting collection of stories gathers together legends from across Ireland told by a wealth of talented storytellers, including our recent guest Steve Lally.

From fairies, giants and vampires to changelings and witches, this book celebrates the distinct character of Ireland s different customs, beliefs and dialects, and is a treat for all who enjoy a well-told story.

Entering is ridiculously easy. Simply drop me a message telling me which episode of this Podcast has been your favourite (so far…). You can write to me via email, or on Facebook, Instagram or YouTube.

Take a wee sneak peek at this gorgeous book here on Amazon:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Anthology-Irish-Folk-Tales/dp/0750993219

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**REMINDER**

Don’t forget to tune into Steve Lally’s ‘Tales by the Light of the Tilly Lamp’ storytelling event.

Steve is hosting a special live storytelling event on Saturday 4th July on his Facebook page. For 90 minutes he will be weaving his way with poems, songs and of course, wonderful tales from 10pm to 1130pm GMT time. This storytelling session is a fundraiser with awesome giveaways of books and pieces of art and all funds raised will directly support Steve as he undertakes his upcoming Masters Degree. Please support one of our great, modern storytellers to further develop his glorious craft. Steve’s Facebook Page is called ‘irish gothic: fairy stories from the 32 counties of Ireland’.

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Fancy buying me a coffee?

If you enjoy Encounters with the Good People and would like to give me a hand to continue in this work, please consider buying me a ‘coffee’ (I prefer tea actually...).

This is a really quick, simple and safe way for you to donate and support my work. Simply click on the ‘Buy me a coffee’ icon on my website and you will be helping to create and produce ‘Encounters with the Good People’ Podcast and YouTube videos.

All support is greatly appreciated. Cheers, Kitty.

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Encounters with the Good PeopleBy Kitty Phelan