Ogam The Poet’s Secret : Sean O’Boyle [ Ogham , Ireland ]

“Ogam: The Poet’s Secret” is a posthumously published book by Irish scholar, harper, and musicologist Sean O’Boyle that delves into the intricacies and mysteries of the ogam language. Ogam , also known as ogham, is an ancient script used by the Celts of Ireland and the British Isles that has long been shrouded in mystery and intrigue. (The few surviving examples are often found carved in stone but apart from the rare bits of ogham recorded in medieval books it is believed the majority of the corpus would have been carved into wood and is now lost).

In this book, O’Boyle offers a comprehensive analysis of the ogam language, examining its relationship to myth, magic, and musical notation. The author suggests that the origins of ogam can be traced back to pre-literate times, when it was used as a tool by harp playing bards in Ireland and the British Isles.

Through extensive research and analysis, O’Boyle presents a detailed examination of the various symbols and “characters” used in ogham / ogam and the meanings they held for the ancient Celts. One of the most fascinating aspects of the book is the author’s investigation into the musical notation of ogam. O’Boyle suggests that the symbols used in ogam may have been closely related to the rhythms and melodies of traditional Celtic music. He argues that the bards who used ogam may have originally employed the script as a way to record their compositions and pass them down to future generations.

Throughout the book, O’Boyle presents a wealth of historical and linguistic evidence to support his arguments. He draws on a wide range of sources, from ancient texts and manuscripts to modern scholarship and research. The result is a compelling and thought-provoking book that will appeal to anyone interested in the history of language and literature, as well as those with an interest in the Celts and their culture. The author’s research and analysis is thorough and well-grounded, making the book a valuable resource for scholars and students alike. If you’re interested in learning about the secrets of the past and understanding the connection between language and culture, this is a book you won’t want to miss.