“Nodding the head does not row the boat.” That’s an Irish proverb tweeted by writer/farmer Martin McConnell (@spottedgeckgo) that has stayed with me. I nod my head and say to myself that I better get to writing. How about you? Are you rowing or nodding these days? It's St. Patrick’s Day, which is a holiday around here. I know many people celebrated last Saturday when the parade marched and the river flowed green. I am not much for green beer or green tchotchkes these … [Read more...]
Sláinte
Happy Saint Patrick’s Day! I’ve spent the weekend celebrating. First on Friday I re-connected with a cousin. Since then my mind has been on the past, the uncles and aunts, grandparents, and parents now deceased. All weekend long the pull to look back has been strong, and I have indulged myself, remembering the funny stories and not so funny ones too. One of my uncles was particularly proud of our Irish heritage and he would drill me to remember my ancestry. “What are … [Read more...]
Happy Saint Patrick’s Day: Poetry Ireland, Tyrone Guthrie Centre, and Yeats
Today's focus is on the Irish, so I have listed some of my favorite literary Irish things. If you're looking for contemporary Irish poetry, there is no better journal than Poetry Ireland Review (published quarterly). A subscription also includes a bi-monthly news letter, Poetry Ireland News. Though the overseas subscription rate is rather steep, the journal never disappoints and includes reviews and essays on craft as well as contemporary Irish and international … [Read more...]