Poet and novelist David Butler sets the formal proceedings going by welcoming the audience and introducing the wonderful poet Peter Sirr to say some words about the collection.
Peter spoke to the gathered audience with his extremely lucid (as ever), close reading of the work. It was a true honour to have him there on the evening.
Peter's summary of the collection as 'a book in three movements, symphonic in its breadth' was extremely humbling to hear...
Finally, I face my nerves - and the audience - to say some words of thanks to the many who have helped me along the way with this one.
Physics corner: Poets Iggy McGovern, Kate Dempsey and Ross Hattaway read as I read - from my own collection, mind. Otherwise, that would be just rude...
I finish my short(ish) reading from the book with the monologue 'Ailish', one of my favourite pieces from the collection.
The Host with the most, D Butler, returns to the floor and wraps up the speechifying, inducing folk to have (another) glass of wine and buy the wares on offer!
Old pals, Brian Walsh and Greg O'Brien chatting afterwards...
...while, thankfully, I had some books to sign.
My great friend from New York, Beth Phillips, chats with my mam.
The rest of the family had come in numbers also. My uncle Dinser and aunt Margaret, with my brother Paddy and his partner Valerie.
Still signing books, thankfully, when ambushed with a man-hug by my old pal and neighbour, Mick Cregan.
My uncle Frank, original toubadour of the family, talking to my brother Aidan.
To finish, a shot of me - book in hands - ruminating afterwards... Naturally, we all then headed to the nearest tavern...
My profound thanks to all who came along to make the launch such a special occasion. Massive thanks also to Books Upstairs for hosting the event and their long and enduring support of contemporary Irish writing and my publisher Ward Wood for their continued support in publishing my work. And finally, special mention for my good friend Steve Wilson who took the wonderfully atmospheric photographs on the night.
Till the next one!
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