Donal Hickey: The place of gorse in Irish mythology and folklore

A striking image from the charred, mountain landscape last week was of a solitary furze bush. Like a symbol of hope, it glowed bright and yellow in the fire-blackened Killarney National Park.

Plenty has already been said about this and other destructive fires around the country, but it’s good to see furze creating an altogether more kindly blaze on the hillsides.

You have reached your article limit. Already a subscriber? Sign in

185th
Anniversary Offer

Six months of digital access for €18.50

Get Offer

No obligation. Ts&Cs apply.