
A bright, fast‑paced comedy set on a moonlit Irish roadside, this play introduces us to Michael, a wandering tinker, his outspoken mother Mary, and the spirited Sarah Casey, who drags him toward a hasty marriage. Their banter crackles like the fire beside the ditch, mixing earthy wit with a tenderness that captures the rhythm of rural life. The dialogue is steeped in the peculiar humor of a community that laughs at itself without malice, offering a vivid portrait of a world where every small talk hides larger hopes.
In the opening act, Michael’s reluctant craftsmanship—shaping a tin wedding ring while sparring with Sarah’s teasing—sets the stage for a clash of desire and duty. The scene swirls with colorful characters, a nearby chapel gate, and the occasional philosophical aside that elevates the comedy beyond mere farce. Listeners are invited to join a lively evening where love, livelihood, and the stubborn spirit of the Irish countryside collide in charming, unforgettable exchanges.
Language
en
Duration
~45 minutes (44K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
This etext was prepared by Judy Boss
Release date
1998-05-01
Rights
Public domain in the USA.
Subjects

1871–1909
A leading voice of the Irish Literary Revival, this playwright turned close observation of rural life on the Aran Islands and in the west of Ireland into vivid, lyrical drama. Best known for works including Riders to the Sea and The Playboy of the Western World, he wrote plays that were both poetic and startlingly alive.
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