The Writer Network

There are so many writer and reader groups, particularly attached to the wonderful library service. Some writers thrive on Creative Writing groups or classes; others don’t.

Which is why organisations who provide a mixture of events you can dip into on a once-off basis, or study more seriously on their short or longer courses, are invaluable.

Do check out The Irish Writers Centre, Parnell Square, for a range of activities, guest speakers and courses in all writing media.

Another organisation which subscribes to the philosophy of writers as advocates for social and political justice, is Irish PEN, affiliated to International PEN. Irish PEN also presents an annual award for outstanding contribution to literature in Ireland, voted on by writer peers. All the greats have been past recipients. See the exhaustive list at www.irishpen.com.

Brendan Kennelly (1936-2021)

Brendan and me:  A personal tribute.

Anybody who has ever set foot in Trinity College Dublin – has a Brendan story.  You didn’t have to study English under him – or have rooms near his – or prop up the bar at O’Neill’s during his drinking years.  You didn’t even have to be a student. For Brendan patrolled his personal Dublin beat of the squares and streets that sprang in all directions from the college walls – on a mission:  to observe people, to engage them in open, twinkly-eyed conversation.  To listen to an idea or a tale that might spark his imagination further, when he later returned to his room and his poetry.

I learned upon his death, that he graduated with the same degree as mine – French and English – on the year I was born!  An accomplished life lived before I had even landed!

Sing joyous songs, Brendan, now as always.

‘Soul clap its hands and sing and louder sing…’ (W.B.Yeats)