Old Songs Review: Ancient Ballads Reborn in Haunting Short Stories
In the timeless Scottish ballad Tam Lin, a young woman named Janet defies her family's warnings and ventures to the well at Carterhaugh. There, she encounters an elfin knight who, according to legend, claims the virginity of any golden-haired maiden who dares to approach. Janet, blessed with both golden locks and a rebellious heart, not only visits daily but also learns Tam Lin's tragic fate: stolen by the Fairy Queen and cursed to eternal servitude in Elfland. When Janet discovers she is pregnant, she devises a daring and perilous scheme to break the enchantment and reclaim her lover.
A Treasure Trove of Dark and Magical Tales
This captivating narrative is just one of the many ancient stories featured in Old Songs, a remarkable collection of short stories inspired by traditional ballads from across the British Isles. Spanning from the Classical era to the early twentieth century, these richly imagined tales delve into themes of sibling murder, infanticide, kidnapping, abandonment, and even a man transformed into a worm by a witch's spell. As author Amy Jeffs poignantly notes in the foreword, "Not all the stories are happy and that is the way of the world."
Jeffs, an accomplished art historian and medievalist, narrates these interconnected stories with a unique blend of warmth, intimacy, and a subtle undercurrent of menace. Her scholarly background shines through as she provides insightful analysis after each tale, tracing the evolution of each ballad through literature, spoken word, and musical adaptations. This audio edition is further enriched by exquisite musical excerpts composed by Natalie Brice, adding an atmospheric layer to the listening experience.
Enhanced Audio Experience with Visual Art
Accompanying the audio is a digital booklet showcasing Gwen Burns's haunting and evocative illustrations, which perfectly complement the dark, magical themes of the stories. Available via Riverrun with a runtime of 4 hours and 18 minutes, Old Songs offers a immersive journey into the folklore and legends that have shaped British cultural heritage.
Further Listening Recommendations
Nesting by Roisín O’Donnell, narrated by Derry Girls star Louisa Harland, is a moving 10-hour and 11-minute novel from Simon & Schuster Audio. It follows Ciara, a mother escaping an abusive husband with her two daughters, as she navigates the challenges of a fractured housing and social care system while striving to rebuild her life.
Vermeer: A Life Lost and Found by Andrew Graham-Dixon, a 15-hour and 1-minute scholarly work from Penguin Audio, explores the life and artistry of the seventeenth-century Dutch painter Vermeer. The author, an esteemed art historian, speculates on the identity of the young woman immortalized in Girl With a Pearl Earring, offering a deep dive into one of art history's most enduring mysteries.
