（前排提醒：是學術縫合垃圾的搬運）
1 Introduction
Directed by Tomm Moore and produced by Irish studio Cartoon Saloon, Song of the Sea is an animated fantasy film based on Celtic mythology. It premiered in September 2014 at the Toronto International Film Festival, where it was described by critics as "a dazzling miracle" (Debruge, 2014). In recognition of its artistic and cultural significance, the film was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature in 2015. This paper, situated in the field of film studies, examines the film's relationship to Irish culture and identity.
Ireland has a rich cultural history, which has created a wealth of folk legends and myths. However, in the wave of industrialization and urbanization since the 1990s, the country has experienced significant social and cultural changes. Rapid economic development has brought about the influence of foreign cultures and a collective amnesia of traditional culture among its people. Song of the Sea was born out of Tomm Moore's reflection on this context.
The film tells the story of a young boy named Ben and his sister Saoirse, who embark on an adventure and ultimately return home, exploring the modern theme of anxiety, pain, escapism and a longing to return to one’s true self in an industrialized society. Through its unique story, art and music, the film evokes specific aspects of Irish culture and identity, such as the relationship between the man and nature, the importance of family and community, and the enduring power of myth and legend.
2 Film Synopsis
Ben, the son of a lighthouse keeper named Conor and his wife Bronach, lived happily on an island until his mother disappeared after giving birth to his sister Saoirse, who couldn't speak. On Saoirse's sixth birthday, she discovered a white coat and transformed into a seal after putting it on and jumping into the sea. After finding Saoirse on the beach, Conor threw the coat into the sea and sent the children to stay with their grandmother on the mainland, but they ran away to return home.
During their journey, Saoirse played a shell Bronach had given to Ben, and the melody attracted the attention of three fairies who hoped Saoirse could sing as a Selkie to free them, but they were turned to stone by the witch Macha's owls. Having escaped from there, Saoirse became weaker and weaker, and jumped into a well where she was taken away by owls. In the process of searching for Saoirse, Ben met the Great Seanachai, who told him legends about Macha the Owl Witch, Mac Lir the Great Giant, and the secret of Selkie.
In order to save Saoirse, Ben found Macha's house and gave Saoirse the shell. Saoirse played the Song of the Sea, which released Macha's sealed emotions, but Saoirse's health continued to decline. Macha used magic to send the children back to the island, where Ben magaged to get the Selkie coat with the help of seals.
Saoirse put on her coat and recovered her health, singing the Song of the Sea, which revived the fairies who had been turned to stone. All the faries gathered on the rock of Mac Lir the Great Giant, who reconciled with his mother Macha before they journeyed to Tír Na Nóg, the otherworld. Bronach appeared and offered Saoirse a choice between being human or a Selkie, and Saoirse chose the former. Bronach took the coat and returned to the fairy world, reluctant to part with her family.
3 Story and Theme
Contemporary filmmakers increasingly incorporate ethnic elements in their works to promote national culture, leading to a heightened interest in adapting mythology. However, adaptation should not merely innovate expression but also incorporate mythological themes in contemporary contexts.
Tomm Moore grew up in close proximity to the natural environment of the Irish nation, and his work Song of the Sea reflects his strong sense of Irish national identity through the use of Irish mythology, demonstrating the potential to convey cultural identity while adapting to modern contexts.
3.1 The Fusion of Reality and Myth
3.1.1 The Fusion of Narrative Inspiration. Ireland's national theater and literature have played an important role in the country's cultural identity and aspirations. During the period of the Irish Literary Revival from the 1890s to the early 1920s, Irish artists drew inspiration from their country's rich history and mythology to tell stories about its people and explore its identity. In the film Song of the Sea, director Tomm Moore pays homage to this cultural legacy by incorporating imaginative references to Celtic mythology, including characters such as Selkie, Manannán mac Lir (the God of the sea), and Macha (the Goddess of fate and war), which reminds audiences of the rich history and traditions of Ireland.
Moore's inspiration for the film came not only from mythology but also from real-life events. While at the beach, fishermen recounted the brutal killing of seals and how it could have been prevented if people remembered the beautiful mythology of Selkies. Moore used this event to remind people of the Selkies' story, which was widely accepted during the Great Famine as a metaphor for the spirits of women who died in childbirth. By incorporating elements of the realistic setting and mythology, the film endows national stories with new social value and contributes to the ongoing cultural conversation about Irish identity.
3.1.2 The Fusion of Narrative Space. Song of the Sea is a film that mourns the loss of Irish mythology and seeks to evoke a new understanding of Irish identity, one that is linked to the mythical dimensions of Irish society. To achieve this, the film constructs a dual world of reality and myth, integrating Irish myth and legend seamlessly with the real world. By creating a magnificent fantasy scene, the film expands the richness of the story and invites multiple interpretations.
The film presents two contrasting worlds: one is the real world represented by Saoirse and Ben's family, and the other is the fantasy world inhabited by fairies. These two worlds are subtly connected by the character of Bronach, who is both Saoirse and Ben's mother and a Selkie, a creature from Irish mythology. The construction of myth and reality in the film is closely integrated, giving it multiple layers of meaning.
...The characters in the film also provide a clever counterpoint to the two worlds. Conor, the father, is grief-stricken by the loss of his wife, which mirrors the sorrow of Mac Lir, a figure from Celtic mythology who also wept over the death of a loved one. The similarity between Conor and Mac Lir's images in the film evidences a corresponding relationship. Similarly, the grandmother and Macha both seek to alleviate their sons’ grief but take the wrong approach, which makes mother-son relationship worse. Besides, the old ferrying man corresponds to the Great Seanachai, and the dog Cu corresponds to Mac Lir's Wind Dog. The fairies, who turn to stone as a result of being taken, serve as a metaphor for the alienation of modern humans in industrialization. The emotional being taken mirrors the detachment of individuals from their surroundings in modern society, leading to feelings of disconnection and loss of identity.
Through these correspondences, the film portrays the joys and sorrows of both the human family and the fairies in parallel, linking the psychological traumas of modern people to the ancient myths and legends that inform Irish identity. This correlation imbues the film with modern significance and makes it a modern fable. Additionally, the fact that almost all the adult voices in the film play the role of both real and mythical figures underscores the film's central message that we are slowly losing our ability to recognize the magic that surrounds us all the time, expressing the lament over the loss of legend and the need to connect with the cultural heritage.
3.2 The Reflection on Human and Nature
As the world becomes increasingly industrialized, society has grown more concerned with environmental issues, leading to a reevaluation of humanity's relationship with nature. This theme has become a central topic in many contemporary animation works, particularly in the works of Tomm Moore. Given that Ireland is an island almost surrounded by the sea and has a lush natural environment, Moore's films frequently reflect his reverence for the natural world.
In Song of the Sea, Ben's family symbolizes modern civilization, while the fairies represent the natural world of myth. The contrast between these two worlds reflects traditional Irish culture and highlights the modern world's separation from nature. The departure of Bronach, and Saoirse's removal of her Selkie coat suggests that the mythical world has lost touch with the modern world. The film's ending is a lament for the relationship between humans and fairies, suggesting that humans cannot coexist with nature right now, exposing the harsh reality hidden beneath the fairy tale's surface.
...The film's visual style plays a significant role in conveying this theme. The contrast between the ocean and the interior reflects the contrast between nature and industrial civilization. Ben's family lives on a quiet and mysterious island, while the city where his grandmother resides is modernized with severe industrialization and pollution. The film uses contrasting colors to depict these different worlds. Large aera rendered, varying shades of blue and warm gold create a mysterious and profound atmosphere for the sea and beach scenes, while high-saturation greens and blues evoke a fairy-tale look for the fields, woods, and caves. Contrastly, the main color of the city, such as dark brown and light gray, creates a gloomy atmosphere. Through these objective color depictions and the subjective emotional tendencies of the worlds, children's resistance to city life and their desire to return to the sea, thereby celebrating nature and the human aspiration to reconnect with it.
Overall, Song of the Sea reflects the director's regret that humanity cannot live in harmony with nature in the present, and the beautiful expectation of human beings to return to nature. Its depiction of the contrast between nature and industrial civilization through the film's visual style and the characters' experiences conveys the message that despite our modern advances, we must never forget the importance of nature and our connection to it.
4 Art and Symbol
Many studios around the world have sought to differentiate their work from what they perceive as a diluted form of American cultural and artistic imperialism by drawing on their own indigenous fine arts traditions, mythologies, and cultural imperatives (Wells, 2002). In the review of Tomm Moore's film The Secret of Kells, Burke (2009) highlights the parallel between the movie's focus on preserving the aesthetic beauty of illuminated manuscripts and Moore's preference for traditional hand-drawn painting over CGI. This dedication to traditional techniques may be seen as an effort to preserve and promote indigenous stories through the medium of film.
Similarly, Song of the Sea utilizes symbols derived from Irish history and culture to express a distinct national identity in Irish animation. These symbols extend beyond the storyline, revealing a deeper cultural significance that speaks to the importance of maintaining Irish heritage. By using traditional techniques and incorporating culturally significant symbols, Moore reinforces the value of preserving and promoting Ireland's cultural legacy through contemporary animation.
4.1 Shapes in Character Design
The character design in Song of the Sea is distinct from that of Japanese or American animation. Instead of realism or exaggerated cuteness, the shapes used in the film draw inspiration from the geometric designs of the Book of Kells, reflecting the Irish cultural context. The characters are modeled using simple geometric figures, such as lines, circles, and rectangles, emphasizing the essential features of each character, leading to a concise and smooth aesthetic that highlights their unique traits.
...The psychological effects of different shapes are known to influence viewer perceptions of characters. In Song of the Sea, the main characters can be broadly categorized based on their predominant shapes. Firstly, characters with circular and curved shapes are associated with a soft and elegant demeanor, evoking feelings of happiness and sunshine. These shapes are commonly used to represent childlike innocence and purity such as Ben and Saoirse. Secondly, rectangular shapes are associated with stability, but can also be perceived as static and rigid. In the film, Conor, the father raising two children alone, is depicted using rectangular shapes to reflect his anguish over Bronach's departure. Finally, triangular shapes, particularly those with sharp horns, convey conflict and contradiction. The owl witch in the film is portrayed with a triangular mouth, emphasizing its evil and malevolent character.
Overall, the use of different shapes to represent the characters in Song of the Sea is a deliberate and effective way of conveying their personalities and traits. By leveraging the symbolic associations of various shapes, the film succeeds in creating a visually compelling world with distinctive national style.
4.2 Patterns in Scene Deisgn
The art of Song of the Sea incorporates Irish symbolic patterns to reflect the national character of Ireland, which is a significant aspect of the film's unique artistic characteristics. These patterns are represented as geometric designs with religious significance, which serve as decorations and convey the cultural customs and heritage of Ireland. The film employs abstract and concise symbols in its scenes to effectively convey Irish culture.
The Celtic Cross has been used as a symbol of cultural heritage since the revival of Celtic culture in the 19th century. Its religious origins make it a significant cultural symbol, representing eternal life. In Song of the Sea, the cross window in Ben's house acts as a bridge between the real world and the fairy world. It reflects Saoirse's seal shadow, symbolizing the unbreakable bond of familial affection that Saoirse and Bronach share. The circle on the Celtic Cross represents eternal love (Wang & Liang, 2018), adding emotional depth to the scene.
...Prehistoric burials in the archaeological region of Ireland reveal a plethora of abstract figures, such as spiral patterns and concentric circles, which hold religious and cultural significance in Irish culture. Spiral patterns are common in Celtic culture and are known to represent an ethereal and sacred feeling (O'Sullivan, 2012). These patterns are prevalent in Song of the Sea, with the spiral pattern on the shell being a standout example. Every time Saoirse blows the shell, an aurora of numerous circular patterns appears, leading her to her true identity and guiding the development of the film.
...The spiral pattern has been revered in Celtic culture and in the Book of Kells as a sacred symbol representing gods and the cycle of life (Huang, 2016). In Song of the Sea, the music of the spiral shell is believed to be the voice of life and God, while the spirals on the stone shine first when the fairies awaken, and Ben and Saoirse climb through a pipe painted with spiral patterns to reach the fairies' settlement. Thus, the spiral has become a symbol of the fairy, conveying the extraordinary strength and vitality attributed to these mythical beings, which is exactly the Irish national spirit that the director desires to express. The cultural connotations in the film effectively show the Irish spirit and national style in a distinct and meaningful way.
...In conclusion, the use of native Irish symbols in Song of the Seacontributes to the film's unique artistic characteristics, serving as an effective tool to convey Irish culture. The incorporation of the Celtic Cross and spiral patterns add religious significance to the scenes, contributing to the emotional and cultural depth of the film.
5 Music
Animation is an audio-visual art form that employs music to create a certain atmosphere and convey emotions. In Tom Moore's "Song of the Sea", music plays a crucial role in conveying the film's themes, complementing the strong visual effects. The film's melody and score, along with its sound treatment, are necessary for the overall narrative of the film (Bhreathnach, 1980). The distinctive national characteristics of the theme music in "Song of the Sea" reflect the national style and spirit of the film's setting.
5.1 Ancient Language
Gaelic, an ancient Irish language, has almost disappeared except for some remote villages in Ireland where it is still spoken. The use of this language in films helps to create a sense of national belonging and adds a sense of mystery and antiquity. The songs in Song of the Sea are written in Gaelic.
Amhrán Na Farraige / Song of the SeaIdir ann is idir as / Between the here between the nowIdie thuaidh is idir theas / Between the North between the SouthIdir thiar is idir thoir / Between the West between the EastIdir am id idir áir / Between the time between the placeCasann sí dhom / From the shellAmhrán na farraige / The song of the seaSuaimhneach nó ciúin / Neither quiet nor calmAg cuardú go damanta / Searching for love againMo ghrá / My loveTá mé i ghrá / I am in tune
In Song of the Sea, the fairies sing songs steeped in Irish customs, and the use of Gaelic adds to the film's authenticity. The song sung by Selkie becomes the key to the fairy's freedom, indicating the director's reverence for Gaelic. This adds a deep connotation to the song, providing the audience with an emotional experience intertwined with history and the present, rather than a simple sensory experience, thereby expanding the emotional depth of the film.
5.2 National Instruments
The harp is a pioneering instrument of Celtic music and an important part of Irish history. The Irish national emblem features a harp, highlighting the importance of music in the country's cultural heritage. Additionally, Irish bagpipes, another important folk instrument, play a significant role in Song of the Sea. The film's frequent use of a variety of ethnic instruments creates a mysterious and melancholy atmosphere that adds to the film's ethereal quality. The use of a unique Celtic instrument, the "uilleann pipe", adds to the film's slightly melancholy mood. The purity of the sound is one of the highlights of the film, which fits in with the story and brings out the film's slightly melancholy mood.
The simplicity of the instruments used in Irish music, rather than their complexity, adds a cinematic feel that makes it easier for the audience to relate to the characters in the film. For instance, Saoirse dances to beautiful piano music as she follows the aurora to her mother's Selkie coat, making the scene come alive and romantic. These instruments not only set the mood of the film but also highlight the characteristics and status of the characters. They provide a unique alternation between ethereal elegance, melancholy, and mystery.
Overall, the use of music in Song of the Sea is an essential element of the film's narrative, contributing significantly to its emotional depth, atmosphere, and authenticity. The use of traditional Irish instruments coupled with Gaelic adds a distinct and unique element that reflects the country's cultural heritage and national identity.
6 Conclusion
Animated films do indeed reflect national identity. Through the storytelling and themes, the art and symbols used, and the music, animated films convey messages about a particular culture and its values.
In terms of theme, Song of the Sea are the fusion of reality and myth and the reflection on human and nature. The film constructs a dual world of reality and myth, integrating Irish myth and legend seamlessly with the real world, which gives it multiple layers of meaning. The film portrays the joys and sorrows of both the human family and the fairies in parallel, linking the psychological traumas of modern people to the ancient myths and legends that inform Irish identity. The film's ending is a lament for the relationship between humans and fairies, suggesting that humans cannot coexist with nature right now. The contrast between the natural world of myth and modern civilization reflects traditional Irish culture and highlights the modern world's separation from nature and the desire to come back to nature.
In terms of art, Song of the Sea incorporates native Irish symbols in the design to convey the national character and cultural heritage of Ireland. The use of shapes and patterns in character and scene design effectively conveys the personalities and traits of characters, and the cultural customs and heritage of Ireland. The symbols used, such as the Celtic Cross and spiral patterns, add emotional and cultural depth to the film, making it a visually compelling representation of Irish culture and national style.
Music plays a crucial role in creating the emotional depth, atmosphere, and authenticity of the film Song of the Sea. The use of traditional Irish instruments, particularly the harp and Irish bagpipes, along with the Gaelic language, reflects the cultural heritage and national identity of Ireland. The simplicity of the instruments used in Irish music contributes to the film's cinematic feel and makes it easier for the audience to relate to the characters.
Overall, in Song of the Sea, by highlighting the unique characteristics and traits of a nation, animated films help to promote a sense of national pride and identity among its people. The use of recognizable themes, symbols and music further reinforces the connection between the film and the national identity it represents. Overall, the thesis argues that animated films can serve as a powerful tool for promoting and preserving national identity.
Reference
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Burke, L. (2009). Drawing Conclusions: Irish Animation and National Cinema. Estudios Irlandeses, 4, 187-191.
Debruge, P. (2014, September 21). Film Review: ‘Song of the Sea’. Variety, https://variety.com/2014/film/festivals/film-review-song-of-the-sea-1201310423
Huang, S.Y. (2016). The Study of Tom Moore’s Line Lnaguage. Unpublished master’s thesis, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, Guangdong.
Li, Y.R. (2022). The Construction of Irish National Identity in Tomm Moore’s Animated Film Trilogy. Unpublished master’s thesis, Beijing Foreign Studies University, Beijing.
O'Sullivan, M. (2012). The Spirituality of Prehistoric Societies: A View from the Irish Megaliths. New York: Springer.
Wang, Y. (2019). The Study of the Artistic Creation and Aesthetic Features of Toom Moore’s Animation. Unpublished master’s thesis, Northwest University, Xian, Shanxi.
Wang, Y.Y., & Liang, J.M. (2018). Kaierte wenhua yujing xia donghua dianying de gexing suzao – cong tangmu moer de haiyangzhige tanqi [The Character Shaping of Animated Films in the Context of Celtic Culture -- from Tomm Moore's Song of the Sea]. Contemporary TV, 359(03), 108-109.
Wells, P. (2002). Animation: Genre and Authorship. London: Walkflower Press.
學術垃圾搬運完畢
感謝看到這裡的您（T▽T）
