Sedayne, I was finally able to get a copy of the first printing of "People of the Sea" by Thomson. I hope to pick up a used or new copy of the 2002 edition soon.

I was fascinated with his journeys. He does address the difference between those people who saw/see the seal as just another product of the sea to be used, and those who take seriously the fey or otherworldly aspect. Many people in the book, even some who had at one time been seal-hunters, were concerned about the dangerousness of doing harm to seals. In fact at least one person he quotes refers to the seal-folk as fairies. A tremendous amount of lore here. Thank you so much for suggesting this book! While my original question had to do with naming etc I am also searching for folk lore that validates my inner experiences, and I found lots of that in this book. I remember when first encountering the selchie in my shamanic journeys I questioned whether he could be considered "fey", and was concerned that my conscious mind was "making things up". I really went on about whether he should be there in my journey at all!!! But apparently in some parts of the Isles at least, selchies are considered by the old-timers to be fey.

And there seem to be families in many locations who consider themselves descended from seal-human alliances. It is a bit more common than I had thought. One of the reasons why some folks are reluctant to harm them-- and some have a reputation of protecting them.