In this new book its author makes a statement about what words mean to him. ”Words in Ireland, if not always certain good, are definitely certain meaningful and sometimes certain loaded.” It is a forewarning for the reader on how to approach this book of essays, reviews and articles by Hugh McFadden, for words also have their organic attributes. Page after page reveal that certain good in McFadden’s use of words, also that ingredient of certain meaningful between the lines and that certain loaded when implication is better than outright statement. In effect, the author’s canvas takes in the gamut...
An Island of Scribes and Bards by Kieran Beville. Part 2 – Novelists
Kieran Beville – Proud Limerick-man and former teacher of English Literature – continues in this second article of a three part series on Irish writers, notably Limerick authors, showcasing their immense contribution to Ireland’s rich literary heritage. This week the focus is on our novelists. Limerick people may rightly be proud of their past literary heritage as well as the living authors who were born in the majestic Shannon-side city and are writing wonderful works today. Many have won great acclaim at home as well as international renown. The reader may well feel his or her chest swell with pride...
An Island of Scribes and Bards by Kieran Beville. Part 1 – the Big Picture
Kieran Beville – Proud Limerick-man and former teacher of English Literature – begins a three part series on Irish writers and notably Limerick authors, showcasing their immense contribution to Ireland’s rich literary heritage. It seems that every other person in Ireland is a writer or an aspiring writer. This is reflected in the ever-increasing number of creative writing courses – many at advanced (Master’s) level, being hosted by universities, and the numerous literary festivals (including the Limerick Literary Festival), with their well-attended writer’s workshops, throughout the land. The country is teeming with literary talent, so much so that you couldn’t...
Write Now: A Guide to Becoming a Writer – Kieran Beville. REVIEW BY JOHN LIDDY
Kieran Beville opens his book with the appropriate chapter heading, Making a Start, and some advice from Stephen King: “The scariest moment is always just before you start.” This is about getting oneself to sit and face the blank page. Not an easy task, as most writers will confirm but a necessary one in order to put words together and carry on. It is sound advice which Beville repeats throughout this book. Further on, under the subheading, The writer’s life, he states, “As you aspire to be a writer you ought to view life as a writer would.” Literally, everything...
April is Poetry Month in Limerick 2025
The Limerick Writers’ Centre Presents April is Poetry Month in Limerick 2025. During the 30 days of April, with over 13 events and over 27 performers, Limerick’s annual poetry festival April is Poetry Month in Limerick returns. Once again poetry will echo in the streets and intimate venues of this historic city of Limerick. Long associated with poetry and literature the Limerick Writers’ Centre inaugurated the festival in 2013. For the month of April Limerick will showcase some of the best from the world of poetry, including local, national and international guest readers! Dominic Taylor, director of the festival, emphasises...