Sexual metaphor and meaning in the two Irish language songs ‘An Binsín Luachra’ and ‘An tSeanbhean Bhocht’

In many western cultures, sex is considered a taboo subject. However, ideas of what is and is not  considered taboo can vary. The communication of sexual themes, ideas, or subjects and subsequently, their interpretation, is dependent upon varying attitudes, ideologies, events and experiences in our lives, cultures, and societies.  

The central research question posed by this research is ‘How are sexual themes communicated and  multiple meanings generated, historically and contemporaneously in the two Irish language  traditional songs, ‘An Binsín Luachra’ and ‘An tSeanbhean Bhocht’?’ A recurring theme in Irish  traditional song in both Irish and English languages is sex, and the most common form of language used to express it is metaphor. This thesis aims to explore the processes by which meanings relating  to sex are communicated in two distinct Irish language songs and their related English language  variants, and how other meanings emerge, particularly those related to politics.

 “…song itself gives the freedom to express thoughts, ideas, and comments which cannot be stated baldly in  the normal language situation” (Merriam, 1964:193) 

Since song can provide a unique function in the expression of taboo subjects, its study is also a  valuable source for insights into these changes which can reflect identities, values and societal and  cultural growth and change.