Erin Hart Reading
Erin Hart reads from her mystery novel, Lake of Sorrows. Hart gives a brief plot synopsis, explaining that the novel is set in modern day Ireland where officials have just discovered a “bog body,” believed to be around 2,000 years old. She explains that the novel is primarily about “sacrifice;” the bog has always been considered an “otherworldly place, a place of communication with the gods,” halfway between land and water.
During a question and answer session, Hart details the specific procedures involved when authorities discover a “bog body” in Ireland. She also mentions the “Treasure Trove” laws of Ireland, where any artifacts found must be turned over to the government.
Hart goes on to outline the current ecological issues with bogs, and points out that 1 in 6 acres in Ireland is a bog. The induction of Ireland into the European Union, she explains, has resulted in strict laws concerning environmental issues. Hart also recounts many hours spent traveling and performing research with her husband, who is a native of Ireland.
In: "Live from Prairie Lights" Audio Archive | Fiction
Authors: Erin Hart
Date Recorded: March 24, 2005
Works Read: Lake of Sorrows, by Erin Hart
Program: Live From Prairie Lights
Format: reading
Contributors: Introduction by host Julie Englander.
Topics: Ireland, bogs, "bog bodies", archaeology, ritual sacrifice