Who am I?
C. Thomas Smith is a fantasy storyteller with a ridiculous sense of humour that can make you snort with laughter or diligently search for pitchforks.
His old stomping ground (about fifty feet from the house he was raised in) is still a field, located in Ireland and is now somewhat sadly misused by children as a play area.
His writing varies by genre and includes comedy and serious works but his experience in Primary School sent him ecstatically into the arms of fantasy and horror. His experiences in secondary school have funded the private education of several young people with psychotherapists as parents.
His love of mythology and speculative fiction aids him in creating real worlds with real people who can both entertain and raise questions about the human condition.
He has an amazing wife and two extraordinary children who protect him as he sleeps from a cat named Pixie that has promised to do unspeakable things with his innards. At least, that’s what the cat seemed to be saying, though absinthe and painkillers were involved. This isn’t a nod to a secret drug addiction. The painkillers were for a knee issue. The absinthe was due to the aforementioned wife and kids.
Druids Tree Ethos
At Druids Tree, the ethos is rooted in a deep love and respect for Irish mythology, folklore, and heritage. This guiding principle shapes every story told and every interaction with the audience.
Heart and Spirit of Irish Mythology – The core mission is to keep the heart and spirit of Irish mythology and folklore alive. This involves not just recounting old tales but infusing them with the same passion and reverence as the original storytellers. Each narrative is selected and shared with purpose, highlighting forgotten ideas, historical events, or truths that resonate today.
Respect and Authenticity – There is a profound respect for Ireland’s heritage and the people who forged its cultural landscape. By honouring the men and women who first told these tales—those who endured war, famine, and calamity—the goal is to preserve the treasures of Ireland’s national memory with authenticity and care.
Accessible Storytelling – Avid storytelling is at the heart of Druids Tree, not academic expertise. The aim is to entertain and create stories that audiences will fall in love with. This involves using humour—sometimes dark, irreverent, or strange—to make the work accessible to modern audiences. The humour is never meant to belittle the material but to engage and retain attention, making ancient tales more relatable and memorable.
Community and Connection – Druids Tree seeks to build a tribe, a clan of individuals who cherish Irish heritage and stories. This community is about sharing tales and preserving the culture together. It’s a space for those who love the material or simply want to be part of a group that celebrates and promotes these amazing stories.
In essence, Druids Tree is about storytelling with heart and humour, respecting and preserving Irish culture, and fostering a community that will carry these stories forward.
Druids Tree Goals
The goals of Druids Tree are clear and focused, aimed at preserving, educating, entertaining, and building a community around Irish mythology and folklore.
Preservation
Objective – Document and preserve the rich tapestry of Irish myths and folklore. This involves creating a comprehensive collection of books, podcasts, and videos that capture a wide range of stories, ensuring they are accessible for future generations.
Action – Regularly publish new content that explores different aspects of Irish mythology, carefully researching and presenting each story to maintain its authenticity and cultural significance.
Education
Objective – Provide insightful and accessible content that educates the audience about the cultural and historical context of Irish mythology. This helps deepen their understanding and appreciation of these ancient tales.
Action – Develop detailed blog posts, podcast episodes, and videos that delve into the history, characters, and themes of Irish myths, highlighting important ideas, historical events, and timeless truths.
Engagement
Objective – Create engaging and high-quality content that captivates and entertains. By blending traditional storytelling with modern humour, the aim is to make ancient tales enjoyable and memorable.
Action – Use humour—whether dark, irreverent, or strange—to make the stories more relatable and accessible to contemporary audiences. Incorporate elements that grab attention and help audiences remember the tales, like clever wordplay or amusing anecdotes.
Community Building
Objective – Foster a vibrant community of Irish mythology enthusiasts who can share and discuss their passion for these stories. This community will help preserve and promote Irish heritage collectively.
Action – Establish interactive platforms such as forums, social media groups, and live events where fans can connect, share their thoughts, and participate in discussions. Organize community activities like storytelling sessions, discussions, and collaborative projects.
By pursuing these goals, Druids Tree aims to be a cornerstone for anyone interested in Irish mythology and folklore. The focus is on creating a rich, engaging, and supportive environment where the stories of Ireland’s past can be retold, celebrated and preserved for the future.