* Mysterious Disappearance: The ballad recounts the unexplained disappearance of three lighthouse keepers from the Isle of Flannan in 1900. Their fate remains a mystery, adding to the tragic nature of the event. The ballad leaves the audience with a sense of unease and unanswered questions.
* Isolation and Loneliness: The lighthouse keepers lived in extreme isolation on the remote island, highlighting the harsh conditions and the psychological toll of their job. This isolation underscores the tragic consequences of their disappearance.
* Lost Lives and Loved Ones: The ballad focuses on the human cost of the disappearance, evoking the grief and pain of the families and loved ones left behind. It reminds us of the fragility of life and the impact of loss.
* Symbolism of Tragedy: The ballad has been interpreted as a symbol of the human struggle against the forces of nature and the unknown. The island, with its harsh weather and isolation, represents the challenges and dangers that humans face in the world.
* Intrigue and Speculation: The ballad's enduring popularity stems from the enduring mystery surrounding the event. The lack of definitive answers about the keepers' fate fuels speculation and adds to the tragic nature of the story.
Ultimately, the tragedy of "Flannan Isle" lies in the combination of the mysterious disappearance, the isolation and loneliness of the keepers' lives, the human cost of their loss, and the enduring mystery that continues to haunt the ballad.