The Story of Keth

The Celtic Revival of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries produced many fascinating works. Amongst the strangest was this unique mythic novel, first published in 1928. Keth is an immortal being, sojourning for a time down in our mortal world to alleviate her boredom. She casts a shadow of consternation wherever she goes, and her beauty has the capacity to enslave men. In rural Ireland she meets Cleran, a saint known for his love of the humble people, and a giver of invaluable help and spiritual succour to them. He is overwhelmed by Keth, and leaves his good works in order to be with her. She is coldly satisfied with his adoration. In what amounts to a fabular progress, Keth and Cleran tour the countryside, meeting the people, causing disturbance and fascination wherever they go, and keeping to the lonely roads and places for periods by themselves. Cleran never seems quite able to find a sense of peace, with regret and unease colouring his world, but he feels held fast. Keth has an immortal's minimal interest in the finer questions of mortal life. Why should she let go of her lover-saint just because the people need him. Until the tension proves too much, she will not make any move. The Story of Keth reads like poetry, with emotion and looming colour foregrounded in lyrical and moody swathes. It is an experience like no other in literature, and earned Blanche Girouard huge praise. This edition includes a biographical introduction by the author's son, Dr Mark Girouard, specially written for this edition.