[2] It is based on Synge's multiple travels through the Irish-speaking and predominately rural set of islands off the Western coast of Ireland.

[2] Notably, regular steamer service between mainland Ireland and the Aran Islands only began in 1891, and then only to Inishmore, since it is the largest of the three.

On Inishmaan, Synge continues to develop his Gaelic and notes that he feels as if he is traveling farther from civilization (a concept that pleases him).

Due to the rocky topography and limited natural resources and shipping capabilities of the Aran Islands, they remain largely isolated from mainland Ireland.

Some of these specific traditions have since disappeared or otherwise been changed by the modernization and tourist commodification of the islands but Synge's work has preserved some parts of this way of life.