Book Details

The Celtic Gift of Nature: Illustrated Selections from the Carmina Gadelica in Gaelic and English

Compiled by Alexander Carmichael; Illustrated by Vivienne Cardwell

Price:	£9.99
Publication Date:	25 Mar 2004
Availability:	Available to buy

An inspiring selection of Celtic lyric poems and prayers on the theme of nature, from the Carmina Gadelica. Each poem is presented in both Gaelic and English. The beautiful full-colour illustrations and illuminations make this an ideal gift book.

Carmina Gadelica
The Carmina Gadelica is the most comprehensive collection of poems and prayers from the Gaelic tradition of oral poetry. Gathered by Alexander Carmichael, in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland, 'from Arran to Caithness, from Perth to St. Kilda', the poems had been handed down through the generations in a living oral tradition. This tradition and the way of life which sustained it have now disappeared but these poems and prayers live on to remind us of the faith of the unknown poets who composed them.

Reviews

'An inspiring collection of poems and prayers beautifully presented in both Gaelic and English.'
-- Dara Molloy, Aisling Magazine, 2004

'A charming compilation from the Carmina Gadelica. Christopher Moore's introduction puts the collection in context and reminds us of what we have lost as a culture in terms of a more profound relationship with nature.'
-- Scientific & Medical Network Review, Summer 2004

'A new selection of Alexander Carmichael's work has just appeared, with Vivienne Cardwell's beautiful Celtic decorations. Lovers of Gaelic poetry will want to possess their own copy of this edition, and buy one or two as presents for discerning friends.'
-- Christian Parapsychologist, September 2004

About the Author(s)

Alexander Carmichael was born in 1832 on the island of Lismore. His work as a civil servant took him all over the Scottish Highlands and the Hebrides. During his travels he recorded these poems and prayers.

Vivienne Cardwell is freelance illustrator living in Germany.

Table of Contents

Introduction
Eosai, bu chòir a mholadh / Jesus, who ought to be praised
Lusan, beathaichean agus eòin / Plants, animals and birds
Leigheas agus seuntan / Healing and charms
Manaidh / Omens
Grian agus gealach / Sun and moon
Sìdhaichean / Fairies
Spioradan nàdur / Nature spirits
Glossary
Notes to the Poems
Clàr-ama / Index

Of Further Interest

Also available from Alexander Carmichael:
Carmina Gadelica: Hymns and Incantations from the Gaelic
New Moon of the Seasons: Prayers from the Highlands and Islands
The Sun Dances: Prayers and Blessings from the Gaelic
Thou Harp of My Music: Love Songs from the Gaelic