You are cordially invited to the launches of the new volume of The Folklore of Wexford by Michael Fortune in Easons, Gorey, and Wexford Town.
Following the phenomenal success of Volume 1, which was released in late 2023, Michael now returns with a stunning new instalment that continues his deep personal connection to Wexford’s traditions, people, and landscape.
Rooted in the local experience, Volume 2 offers a vibrant and contemporary exploration of County Wexford’s beliefs, customs, and folklore through the eyes of Michael — a man born, reared, and living in the county. Drawing on decades of fieldwork, the book captures the voices, stories, and memories of neighbours, friends, and the many people he has met while recording Ireland’s living traditions.
The late Manchán Magan’s words endorse the book, and the work of Michael, saying:
“There have only been a few true pioneers in the field of folklore collection in Ireland — guardians, sacred recorders of our lore — who have collected and documented the treasures of folk tradition, and without doubt, Michael Fortune is one of them. In years to come, he may be regarded as Ireland’s Alan Lomax.”
Every story is told in Michael’s unmistakable voice — rich, natural, and authentic — supported by archival research and first-hand accounts. The book is beautifully illustrated with over 215 images, many captured by Michael himself, and includes more than 30 QR codes linking to hours of interviews recorded with local people.
This is a ground-up publication at its finest, produced and printed in Ireland with in-kind support from the North Wexford Historical Society and a community of individuals and practitioners around the county, country, and world.
There will be two launches in the county — one in Gorey and another in Wexford Town:
Thursday, November 20, 6:30 p.m. — Eason, Wexford Town
Launched by Alan Corcoran, broadcaster on South East Radio
Friday, November 21, 6:30 p.m. — Eason, Gorey
Launched by Gerard Fleming, Chair of the North Wexford Historical Society
Both events are free, and Michael will be on hand to sign copies and share stories from the book. Refreshments will be served, and all are welcome to join in celebrating this remarkable contribution to Wexford’s cultural heritage.
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“Sharp ears, kind eyes, and a thirst for truth make Michael Fortune the man to prove that folklore is not past-tense. It’s alive in the kitchens, crossroads, and pubs of Ireland — and wherever this book is read. These stories cross generations and interest people from every walk of life and every corner of this earth. No wonder Volume One was a best-seller.”
Wally O’Neill, owner of Red Books, Wexford
“Michael’s head is not turned by the latest fads or trends, but he stays true to and faithfully represents our folklore as he finds it. From time to time, when we are lucky, this exceptional folklorist presents to us his choice of items in one place, such as we find between these covers. Conveyed in Michael’s work is a sense of magic in the everyday, and this magic shines through on every page of this book — in bird and animal lore, material culture, calendar customs, traditional turns of phrase, and much more.”
Dr. Robert Sinnott, PhD, School of Irish and Celtic Studies, Trinity College Dublin
Also check out other Arts events in Gorey, Fine Arts events in Gorey.
