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The Sluagh

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By Patrick Conlan

 




Like ravens
The Sluagh come
There not welcome by anyone
Even in the otherworld there shun
They are the spirits of evil ones
Not just for the dying they come
They want the souls of everyone
The innocent and righteous one
To torment like they had done
When they walked in the sun
Now there the unforgiving dead
So keep a candle bright at night
Westerly windows keep tight
In the darkness they wait
For the chance of a soul to take

 

                                The Sluagh, also known as the "Host of the Unforgiven Dead," are malevolent spirits from Irish mythology. They are often described as resembling a flock of ravens and are feared by both the living and the dead. The Sluagh are known for their insatiable desire for human souls and will stop at nothing to obtain them. They are said to target not only the dying, but also the innocent and righteous.

In Irish folklore, it is believed that the Sluagh were once human beings who committed heinous crimes during their lifetime. As punishment, they were cursed to spend eternity as unforgiven dead, forever seeking to take the souls of others. They are said to wait in the darkness, searching for any opportunity to seize a soul and drag it into the otherworld.

To protect oneself from the Sluagh, it is recommended to keep a candle burning brightly at night and to keep westerly windows tightly shut. It is believed that this will deter the spirits from entering one's home and snatching their soul. The Sluagh are a haunting reminder of the consequences of leading a wicked life and serve as a warning to those who would do harm to others.                                



 

                                                     

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Location: Naas, Co. Kildare, Ireland

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