Mayo Historical and Archaeological Society
Synge on Inis Meain.
By Noel O'Neill
6, Jun 2006 - 14:15

During the years 1898-1902, the young Dublin born author and playwright, John Millington Synge, spent time on the Aran Islands. While there, he studied the lifestyle of the people, their customs, folklore and their religious practices. He kept extensive notes of everything he had observed, and later drew on his accumulated knowledge when he wrote his sometimes-controversial plays and books.

Initially, Synge stayed at a hotel on Inishmore but soon tired of the place because of the number of visitors arriving daily on the ferries from Galway. He felt that as a result of this influx the island was losing its uniqueness. After two weeks he moved onto Inis Meain, the middle island, and there found the solitude he was seeking. He took up residence in a cottage, which is now a museum and houses some memorabilia of its famous tenant, and bears the name ‘Synge’s Cottage.’ (Photo 1)

Synge's Cottage, Inis Meain.

Not far away on a cliff-top is a small structure, also associated the dramatist. Circular in shape, and constructed of rough stones, it served as a place of inspiration, and Synge spent many hours there observing the sea in its ever changing moods and the bird life of the island. He mentions the ‘chair’ in his book - The Aran Islands. The islanders have called this spot ‘Cathaoir Synge/Synge’s Chair, it may well have been an old monument of some description. (Photo 2)

Synge's Chair, Inis Meain, Aran Islands.

Other notable people to visit Inis Meain included Lady Gregory, the poet W.B. Yeats, and the 1916 leader Padraig Pearse.