Irish mythological tales were part of a highly developed oral tradition consisting of four major cycles, and preserved by a highly revered caste of poets. With the destruction of the old aristocratic Gaelic order, this poetic tradition became the province of the peasantry, and as such was brought to the New World. Susan Porter was born in the Shenandoah Valley, West Virginia, of Irish ancestry and these myths "were the strongest influence in her life." She was recorded just prior to her death in 1957 (record says 1967). Professor Brenden O'Hehir comments. Produced by Padraigin McGillicuddy. ANCIENT SOURCES: IRISH MYTH / Susan Porter and Brenden O'Hehir, produced by Padraigin McGillicuddy. SERIES: Irish Contributions to English Literature| no. 5. RECORDED: in 1967.BROADCAST: KPFA, 1982.
The listing in October, 1978 KPFA folio says: "KPFA listener, Janie Miller, sent us a tape of her grandmother, Susan Porter, reading three stories from the Ulster Cycle. Susan Porter was a storyteller by trade, who lived in Big Sur from the 1930's until her death in 1964. Somewhere in the 50s, she made a record of some of her Irish stories and we are delighted to present them this morning. Of particular interest is the role of women as portrayed in this ancient culture. Produced by Padraigin McGillicuddy."
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