Killorglin, Ireland (Below the Goat)
In Ireland, a Goat Was Crowned King. I Have Notes.
Every August, Killorglin crowns a wild goat King Puck for its famous fair. I went to the coronation.
Puck Fair in Killorglin, County Kerry, goes back at least to a charter from 1613. Every August, a wild goat from the hills is crowned King Puck and spends time on a platform high above the town. Here are my notes on the new king.
Notes on the King
- Very calm. Didn’t give a speech. Strong choice, but I’d have given one.
- Magnificent beard. Better than most kings I’ve met.
- Looked down on everyone from his platform. A natural.
- Never once asked about me. That hurt.
Notes on Myself
I’ve been to a lot of big ceremonies. I’ve never been crowned at one. This goat got crowned on his first day in town. Nobody has risen that fast in history, and I’ve read a lot of history, mostly about me.
Long Live the King
Three days of music, markets and crowds, and King Puck took it all in stride. When the fair ends, I’m told, he goes back to the hills. No palace, no staff, no fuss. A king who knows when to leave the party. I’d like to meet that kind of king again, but I’ll be the one on the platform.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the goat okay up there?
These days its time on the platform is shorter, and a vet checks on it. It's treated better than most kings.
Who crowns the goat?
The Queen of Puck, a schoolgirl chosen for the honor. Not me. I asked.