Summary

Chapter 3, “Ragwort,” begins on Samhain Eve in Nóra’s cabin. She recalled the fear she had as a young girl when someone was believed to have been stolen by the fairies on Samhain Eve. She acknowledged the silence and emptiness of her home since Martin had died, and admittedly did not find comfort in caring for Micheál. Remembering her own daughter and the beginning of Micheál’s life, she lamented the happier times. She set out two places at the dinner table for Martin’s and Johanna’s spirits in case of their return that night, and drank herself to sleep. At midnight, she was awoken by the sound of muffled thumps. Drunk and staggering, Nóra made her way to the living room expecting the spirits of her loved ones to be outside. When she swung open the door, she...