
In a secluded pine wood where sunlight never reaches, two eccentric philosophers live with their equally idiosyncratic wives—the Grey Woman of Dun Gortin and the Thin Woman of Inis Magrath. The philosophers, whose thoughts can be heard as constant chatter, pride themselves on solving any puzzle, even those posed by their quarrelsome spouses. Their odd household is further enlivened when, against all expectation, the couple miraculously welcomes a boy and a girl on the same day, sparking both wonder and irritation among the women who never imagined motherhood.
The story unfolds as these characters navigate a delightfully absurd world of riddles, stubborn traditions, and playful battles of wit. Philosophical debates clash with domestic disputes, while the forest itself seems to echo the endless conversations inside the house. Listeners are invited into a whimsical tale that blends Irish folklore with sharp satire, offering a charming exploration of wisdom, love, and the chaos that ensues when certainty meets the unexpected.
Language
en
Duration
~5 hours (300K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
An Anonymous Volunteer, and David Widger Updated: 2023-01-13.
Release date
1999-01-01
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1882–1950
Best known for the magical, mischievous novel The Crock of Gold, this Irish writer blended folklore, humor, and poetry in a voice that still feels lively and original. His work moves easily between myth and everyday life, with a light touch that made him a distinctive figure in 20th-century Irish literature.
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