Forecast 2023!

 Forecast 2023!

I swear another age
Of this reason
Will see the end
Of us.

The soothsayers
Will be there
On the last night
Clutching a copy
Of Dead Certainty.

The proofs outweighing
The process they condemned.

While the arbiters
Of right and wrong
Tie
Their purse strings
Around our neck
On the promise 
Of a new order.
Witch hunting.

And all you can hope for
Is that they'll burn
Themselves out
And you don't get caught
On the wrong side.

Frank Murphy.

* I wrote it once upon a time for another year but sure what's changed!  

Cathal Bui Poetry Competition 2023!

Cathal Bui Poetry Competition 2023

Deadline: 17 Mar 2023

Cathal Bui Poetry Competition 2023 - Free entry

1 Please paste your unpublished poem in the email and send to:  

  belcoopoet@gmail.com

2 Maximum lines 20

3 Closing date 17 March 2023

4 Winners announced at Belcoo Hedge school - 15 July 2023

Awards: Patrick Harte plaque and:
1st £100
2nd £60 
3rd £40

 * One for your notepad and definitely worth an entry!

Elvis Presley - Where No One Stands Alone (Official Music Video)

Elvis and Lisa Marie ~ Where No One Stands Alone. (Something for Christmas)

This song was written by Thomas Mosie Lister who was an American singer and Baptist minister and was released by 'The Statesmen Quartet in 1955. Elvis released it on his 1967 album ~ How Great Thou Art ~ in 1967 and his daughter Lisa Marie recorded a duet, mixing it with her father's vocals in 2018. Something to knock your socks off on Christmas morning. An Elvis Presley Official Music Video and with thanks to Youtube. Go to for the comments.

Something for Christmas!

 Something for Christmas!

Gift Wrapped

Decanting the cut glass
Decided that on the third Thursday
Of every month
That there would be a witch-hunt.

Had it from a reliable source,
Populist columns.
The new brooms
Flying off the shelves
And there was no telling
Where'd they end up
Get a grip.

No use flying off the handle.
Enjoy the downtime.
At least you'd have some 
Peace for a spell.
The dreamy fudge.
Hazelnuts swelling
Into raspberry 
Heaven.

And the crunch of almond,
Orange sensations where you could
Eat your heart out.
Truffles washed down
On the coffee
Crescent.

And the ole Black Magic!

Frank Murphy

Joan Baez : Carrickfergus, Bratislava 1989.

Joan Baez ~ Carrickfergus, Bratislava 1989!

This version was brought to my attention this morning by Sean Reilly and although there are many versions out there I was unaware Joan had given it a go. I have an old LP (Vanguard 1960) from back in the sixties where she sings a number of folk songs and the sleeve notes, which are comprehensive to say the least, describe her as being of Mexican-Irish parentage and as having a "soprano voice with no break from the lowest to the highest register, a choir-boy's pure projection linked with an intense vibrato, a clear diction and surpassing ability to grasp the communicative essence of every song, whether it be folk or composed, ballad or lyric - (Notes by Maynard Solomon) and those are just a sample of the notes. That LP is probably a collector's item. I wonder if she recorded any other Irish ballads. Must look up! Loaded by 'silentype1911' and with thanks. Go to Youtube to read the comments.

Poetry Night ~ Scurlogstown!

Poetry Night ~ Jack Quinn's Scurlogstown!

Our poetry night ~ 'Magazine Promotion' in Jack Quinn's of Scurlogstown on Thursday night was our last get-together for 2022 and we won't meet again until next February, so I hope everyone enjoys the Christmas festivities. It was a very mixed year in that we lost some of our valuable members due to sickness and other issues, so not so sure what 2023 will bring. There was a very good turn out for the event with plenty of poetry read, stories told and even a few songs. Also a few more magazines sold. Just a big thank you to everyone who came and contributed in any way and to the staff at Jack Quinn's for the food laid on and the use of their comfortable surroundings in the Lounge.

The Last Internationale | Deportees (Woody Guthrie)

The Last Internationale ~ Deportees (Woody Guthrie)

I remember buying an LP back in the sixties by Julie Felix and this recording by Woody Guthrie was on it and that wasn't yesterday and if my memory serves me well! There are very many recordings of this one out there but this also tells a more complete story and is probably the best. We haven't treated migrant workers very well ourselves but then as they say, the market the market. Loaded by 'The Last Internationale and with thanks. Go to Youtube for the comments.

Murder most foul with lyrics and reference pictures!

Murder Most Foul ~ Bob Dylan!

There are more conspiracy theories here than there are stars in the sky but anyone who is still alive remembers where they were when they heard the news. Don't know much about ballistics but I wonder how a bullet fired from behind can blow the back of his head off. Bob Dylan's recording leaves a fair old record if you'll pardon the pun. Loaded by Javier Ferreyros and with thanks. Go to Youtube to read the comments. A few days late loading. November 22nd 1963 Dallas.  

Poetry Night/Magazine Promotion!

 Poetry Night/Magazine Promotion!

The Meath Writers' Circle are holding a poetry night in Jack Quinn's of Scurlogstown on Thursday the 1st of December at 7.30 pm. Copies of our recently launched magazine will be on sale on the night for those who wish to purchase. Great for a Christmas present at only €8 each the best value out there. Art and illustrations with seventy six pages in all and biographical notes at the back. Not forgetting the children's section! Printed on glossy paper. Finger-food and refreshments served. Why not drop in for a chat or get-together. An early Christmas party!  

An Tobar ~ Poetry for Pleasure/ November 2022!

An Tobar ~ Poetry for Pleasure/ November 2022! 

Greetings poetry Friends 

Yes it is coming near time for our next session of poetry.

This Tuesday 22nd November at 7.30pm in An Tobar,  Ardbraccan.

As agreed at the last meeting we will continue with the theme of poetry and life of that most prolific of poets Seamus Heaney. 

Also mark in your 2023 diary our vist to Dunsany Castle is set up and agreed for Saturday 11th March 2023 and we meet there at 2pm. We are thankful to Stephen Lourdes, Heritage Officer at Dunsany Castle for his help.

See you on Tuesday evening.

Please share the date of this poetry November poetry session   with anyone not included above and may be interested.

Slán go fóill 

Jim Owens

Tel: 087 967 6728

* Think I got the dates wrong on an earlier post but as above folks: FM

Ireland - The Road Not Taken.

Ireland ~The Road Not Taken.

Loaded by devinsupertramp this is a beautiful video which includes Robert Frost's poem, The Road Not Taken. Some of the places I'd be familiar with but most I'm not. All those ruined castles and abbeys and landscapes and the history that's gone with them. A visit to Youtube to read the comments will enhance your enjoyment of what is some fine camerawork. As to the roads not taken... for another day. Enjoy!

Drawn to the Light Press ~ Issue 7 October 2022.

 Drawn to the Light Press ~ Issue 7 October 2022.

Available in both hard copy and on line this is  published and edited by Orla Fay with a beautiful cover design by Alan Murphy 'which leans more than a little towards the perfect' and includes both photographs and artwork to compliment the poetry. Some of Ireland's best known writers are here with biographical notes on their background and best to leave on a coffee table and dip into now and then. To be savoured slowly. Again it would make a lovely Christmas present and details of purchase options are available on the website. Orla is an award winning poet who edited Boyne Berries for a number of years and is published widely. She has a first collection due out in 2023. 

Drawn to the Light Website 

The Meath Writers' Circle ~ Magazine Launch 2022!

 The Meath Writers' Circle ~ Magazine Launch 2022!

The launch of our eight annual magazine took place in Navan Library last night with Tom French doing the honours and both children and contributors getting to read their poem or story. A good crowd turned for what was a very lively event and we'd like to thank them all for coming and also a big thank you to the library staff for their hospitality and for accommodating the event. Others read as well and the poetry of Thomas Hardy was singled out for its excellence by Tom French in his opening introduction. But there are very many fine poems and articles here and too many to mention. For only €8 the magazine is a gift. Seventy six pages of art and illustrations with biographical notes at the back and a children's section as well. So if you have relations at home or abroad, the perfect Christmas present. Ask any member of the group and the magazine is available at the moment in the Heritage Centre in Trim.

Front Cover

Darby Print

 

Waterford Poetry Prize 2022 Winners Announcement!

I remember sending a email on this asking if they could make the entry process a little more user friendly but the end result deserves congratulations. Judged by Colm Keegan you need your 'A Game' here. The third prize reminds me of an encounter in the television series 'Yellowstone' where John Dutton asks the environmentalist or animal rights campaigner if she has ever seen a ploughed field or do her principles only extend as far as how pretty the thing is she kills. Maybe not the exact words but a thought to muse on, the awful cruelty of it all though is hard to take and makes you wonder but don't ask me. Great poems.

Loaded by the Imagine Arts Festival Waterford and with thanks.

An Tobar Poetry For Pleasure Group!

 An Tobar Poetry For Pleasure Group!

Last Tuesday's meeting  had a focus on the writing and poetry of Seamus Heaney with some contributions of Francis Ledwidge as well. Should have made notes but in haste as they say. Leona Rennicks chaired the meeting and there are some very interesting outings planned for the coming year. Subject to correction the next meeting is planned for Tuesday the 29th of November and the theme continues on the writing of Ireland's Nobel Prize winner (1995).  

The Meath Writers' Circle 8th Annual Magazine/ Review!

Meath Chronicle Review ~ Anne Cunningham!

With thanks to Anne Cunningham !

Our magazine will be launched in Meath County Library Navan

on Thursday the 3rd of November at 7 pm.

Hope to see you there.

And to Sean Reilly for the link.

*The magazine will be launched by Tom French of Meath County Library. 

 

An Tobar ~ Poetry for Pleasure Group.

 An Tobar ~ Poetry for Pleasure Group/ October Meeting 2022!

The above group has its next meeting on this Tuesday coming the 25th of October at 7.30 pm in An Tobar, Ardbraccan Navan and all are welcome to attend. Bring a poem of your choice, whether it's something you've written yourself or by a favourite writer, the theme for the night is on the poetry of Seamus Heaney. Or maybe just sit in and enjoy a hour or two in what are very pleasant surroundings with a get-together afterwards. Contact Jim Owens for further info.

Tel: 087 967 6728  

A Shropshire Lad: (XL) Into My Heart An Air That Kills By AE Housman | P...

The Land of Lost Content!

From Peter Brown Talks: With thanks! If I can find, I must load the ending of 'Walkabout' with Jenny Agutter from 1971  If I remember correctly the film includes the ending of this poem. Great film, really good.

The Meath Writers Circle ~ Annual Magazine Launch 2022!

 The Meath Writers Circle ~ Annual Magazine Launch 2022!

The launch of our annual magazine takes place on Thursday the 3rd of November at 7.0 pm in Navan Library and all are welcome. The magazine is a mixture of poetry, both traditional and modern, with a number of other items including tributes to past members, historical pieces, short stories, sport and the usual special feature for good measure with art and illustrations throughout and of course not forgetting the children's section. There are 76 pages in all including biographical notes at the back and at a retail price of €8 the perfect Christmas present. Hope to see you all there. 

Front Cover

*The magazine will be launched by Tom French of Meath County Library.

  

Irish Life & Lore ~ Voices From The Archives!

 Irish Life & Lore ~ Voices From The Archives!
By Maurice Ó Keefe.

Linked from Paul Kerr of the Scurlogstown Olympiad Group, this is a really interesting collection of podcasts that were recorded from all over the country and on a variety of  different themes or interests. You are going to have to click on the link below to get some idea of the time and effort that went into making these recordings and how important they are to our history and such. Just had a quick flip through myself and will get back to a number of times I'm sure. Good listening. An amazing piece of work and invaluable.

https://podcastaddict.com/podcast/3905362

The Meath Writers' Circle/October Meeting 2022!

 The Meath Writers' Circle/ October Meeting 2022!

The next meeting of the above group is on this Thursday the 6th of October at 7 pm in Navan Library. All are welcome to attend and all you need is a poem or story. Or just sit in for enjoyment sake. Hope to have an update on the magazine by then. See you there!   

The Seven Arch Bridge/ Scurlogstown, County Meath!

 The Seven Arch Bridge ~ Irish Life and Lore!

This is a podcast from Irish Life and Lore to mark the Scurlogstown Olympiad's Heritage Week Event on Sunday the 21st of August 2022. Well worth a listen it as features many of those involved in the effort to save the seven arch bridge on the Rock road in Scurlogstown. The podcast link was supplied by Paul Kerr, who did most of the Trojan work involved in the project but there were a number of others involved as well and you can listen to their stories here. Paul has an article on the bridge included in our forthcoming magazine which is due out in November, 

https://open.spotify.com/episode/32I6GfmxZMIdViulTEfIgd 

An Tobar ~ Poetry Session/September 2022!

An Tobar ~ Poetry Session/ September 2022"

The next meeting of the above group is on this Tuesday coming at 7.30 pm in An Tobar, Ardbraccan Navan. All are welcome! The poetry or poems you read are up to you. A suggestion given is that you do a little homework or research on the poetry or works of Lord Dunsany as he featured in the readings of Slane poet, Francis Ledwidge. Should be interesting.    

Talking with 'The Dubliners' (1)

Talking with 'The Dubliners'

Here's a little entertainment and well worth watching. All credit to 'dublinrareoldtimes' who posted this back in 2009 from an interview with 'The Dubliners' in celebration of their 40th anniversary in 2002. Put the feet up for a while and enjoy. Over on Youtube are the comments and stories.

Leaves From The Cotton Tree!

Leaves From The Cotton Tree! (SLIP)

As noted by Claire Buckley in the foreword (Irish Ambassador to Sierra Leone) the links between our two countries go back over one hundred and fifty years, starting with Irish missionaries, though this timely publication marks the 30th anniversary of the foundation of the 'Sierra Leone Ireland Partnership'. (SLIP).

A selection of thirty-six essays that reflect on or chronicle the relationships between different religious groups or individuals, both here in Ireland and their overseas counterparts, working in what was often a war-torn country. Most people would be unaware of the conflicts in that part of Africa and their best point of reference is probably the 2006 film 'Blood Diamond' which both captures the beauty of the countryside and the horrors of a war that had its roots in greed and exploitation. The different perspectives here make for an interesting read though the one I remember best is from SR. Hilary Lyons and I'm not just saying that. Jim Owens had a poem dedicated to her in our last magazine and it's included here as well.  

The book can be purchased in a number of different outlets including Antonio's of Trim or directly from Jim Owens at 087 967 6728 and check into the link below for further information.

www.slip.ie 

The book with many colour photographs retails at €15.   

 

The Francis Ledwidge Poetry Award 2022!

 The Francis Ledwidge Poetry Award 2022!

The Francis Ledwidge
Poetry Award 2022

 Trophy and Cash Prizes

 1^st Prize is the Ledwidge plaque (a keepsake) inscribed with the winner’s name & cash prize.  Cash prizes and books for Second and Third and merit certificates for finalists.                 

In addition, the winner will be invited to read at the annual Francis Ledwidge Commemoration at the National War Memorial Gardens in July 2023         

 Rules: The decision of the judges is final and no correspondence will be entered into following the results; entry implies compliance with this rule.  

Poems must be the competitor’s own work

not previously published or broadcast.

Poems should not exceed 40 lines of type

Entry fee: €5 per poem: 4 for €15

Max. 6 poems €25 payable to the Inchicore Ledwidge Society

 The judges’ decision is final and no correspondence will be entertained.

Name and address and telephone number on a separate sheet.

S.A.E. or Email address for winners list. Poems will not be returned.

All entries must be submitted before 5^th. November 2022 to

 The Francis Ledwidge International Poetry Award 2022,

C/o 20, Emmet Crescent.

 Inchicore, Dublin 8, D08XEY9, Ireland

  Winners will be notified and results will be announced at our annual awards night in December.  Enquiries 0858497531. Facebook page: Inchicore Ledwidge Society

 

The Bards & Filídh of Ancient Ireland!

The Bards and Filídh of Ancient Ireland!

A chance to learn a little something for myself. Loaded by Ancient History and with thanks. Go to Youtube to read the comments and background.

Red Line Poetry Competition 2022!

 

Red Line Festival Poetry Competition 2022

Deadline: 12 Sep 2022

Red Line Festival is calling on aspiring poets to submit their work for the 2022 Red Line Festival poetry competition.

Now in its tenth year, the prestigious Red Line Poetry Competition attracts hundreds of entries from all across the island of Ireland annually.

This year, Red Line Festival is honoured to have award-winning poet Jessica Traynor judge the competition entries.

The closing date for entries is Monday 12th September 2022 and no entries will be accepted after this date.

The shortlist will be announced on Monday 3rd October 2022 and the prize winners announced during this year’s Red Line Festival which runs from October 13th - 16th 2022.

The Red Line Festival is an initiative of South Dublin Libraries and Arts at South Dublin County Council. Held in October each year, the festival celebrates the very best in local, national and international writing. Taking place in venues across South County Dublin, the Red Line Festival provides a programme of events and workshops that appeals to people of all ages and interests, from children to adults, casual readers to bookworms.

More details and how to apply: https://redlinefestival.ie/events/red-line-festival-poetry-competition-2022

The above information is from the Poetry Ireland Website. Link to the right!

 

The Meath Writers' Circle ~ September Meeting 2022!

 The Meath Writers' Circle ~ September Meeting 2022!

The next meeting of the group is on Thursday next at 7 pm in Navan Library. All are welcome to attend. Just bring a story or poem of your choice and if you can find the lyrics of a song you enjoy with a little backstory, all the better. Should be fun. Hope to see you there.

World Peace Walk - Verona Pentony!

World Peace Walk!

Verona Pentony is organizing a peace walk on the 11th of September 2022 to highlight world peace awareness. Further details can be had by contacting Verona at the email address below.

 verona@momentumsupport.eu. 

ROUTE: The route chosen will be any route available through the website www.trails.ie see category of your choice. Each participants KM walked will be accumulated to achieve the total goal of 3171KM. This is the actual distance to walk around the entire All Ireland Map PARTICIPATION: Momentum Support Teams representing All Ireland so we can achieve our goal to walk the map of Ireland.

 #thewhiteroseofpeacewalk2022 The White Rose of Peace Walk 2022 Sunday 11 September 2022

 OBJECTIVE: Highlight world peace awareness through The White Rose of Peace Walk 2022. We will walk together in unity for world peace on any of the routes around All Ireland. To raise awareness and gather momentum we will carry a single White Rose for World Peace “Ireland will lead Peace for a Better Humanity”. We ask participants to send a photo holding a White Rose as you complete the walk on the 11th September 2022 as a symbol of peace awareness to CSR: verona@momentumsupport.eu  

https://momentumsupport.eu/white-rose-of-peace-walk

Verona is a member of The Meath Writers' Circle and we wish her every success in her endeavour.

Hannah Greally International Literary Awards 2022!

 SiarScéal Festival 2022

Hanna Greally International Literary Awards

Prizes

Overall prize of €400, two €200 prizes, one for the winning short story/prose entry and one for the winning poetry entry.  Two Highly Commended prizes of €50 each. Special Student Category of €100 for the best entry in any of the above mediums.

Theme

This year’s theme is Sunlit Mornings, Ebbing Tides. Entries submitted in any of the writing disciplines of poetry, prose, short story will be considered.

Competition Rules of Entry

·         All entries must be the author’s own, unpublished work, on the theme provided

·         Entries are limited to one per person

·         Poetry submissions should be no more than 100 lines; short story/prose not to exceed 2000 words

·         Entries submitted must be typed and titled

·         Name/address/contact telephone number to accompany each entry, written on a separate page and not to appear on the same page of the entry

·         Entries will not be returned and the judges’ decision is final

·         Festival organizers are not eligible for entry

·         Entry into the competition implies acceptance of the competition rules and guidelines

·         There is no Entry Fee.

 

 If submitting a hard-copy, submit to: SiarScéal Festival Group and send to:

SiarScéal Festival Committee, c/o Roscommon County Council, Library Services, Abbey Street, Roscommon, Ireland

Email submissions at:  siarsceal@live.ie addressed to SiarSceal Festival Group

Closing Date

All entries (postal or online) must be received on and before 5.00pm on Friday, 14th^th October 2022.

Liam Clancy- Poem-Cill Chais

Dáibhí O' Bruadair 1625 ~ 1698 (Poem)

Liam manages to get in a couple of poems here and the performance is from the Joe Heaney Memorial Concert in the National Concert Hall in 1994. There is a great back story to all three and worth looking up and no better than Liam to tell you. Loaded by 'commonslob' and I wouldn't say that now. With thanks, 

Father John Lane ~ Cill Chais. Died 1776.

Joe Heaney ~ 1919 - 1984. Sean Nós singer from Galway

The Jonathan Swift Creative Writing Awards 2022!

The Jonathan Swift Creative Writing Awards 2022!

Hope you can read the information on the uploads but the closing date for this competition is Monday the 19th of September and entries should be sent to Margaret Ennis "Teach Giuise" Boherboy, Saggart, Co. Dublin. They also have a Facebook page. 

 

Noel Joyce - The Day I Scored The Winning Goal!

The Day I Scored The Winning Goal!

Came across this while surfing through the web and it has over one hundred and thirty thousand hits which tells its own story. Great delivery from a man who is an All Ireland Champion at the game. Recorded in Fr. Casey's clubhouse in Abbeyfeale, down there in Hurling country (Better mention rugby as well) and is well worth a listen. He has other videos loaded to Youtube as well. This one credited to Marie Keating.  

The Meath Writers' Circle ~ August Meeting!

The Meath Writers' Circle ~ August Meeting!

Numbers creeping back up slightly with seven in attendance but nowhere near where we used to be. An interesting theme suggested for the next meeting, as well as your own material of course, is to read something written by a popular artist from the musical sphere and the back story that goes with that should be interesting given that everyone has different tastes. When we were in the Trim Castle I can remember someone reading a piece by Nick Cave (The Mercy Seat) so it will be interesting to see what comes up! 

The Meath Writers' Circle ~ August Meeting 2022!

 The Meath Writers' Circle ~ August Meeting 2022!

The next meeting of the group is on Thursday the 4th of August at 7 pm in Navan Library. Bring a poem or story or just yourself and all are welcome. Hope to see you there!

"Going, Going.." by Philip Larkin (read by Tom O'Bedlam)

Going, Going. By Philip Larkin

Don't know about you but I think the this is one fine poem. Philip Larkin was born on the 9th of August 1922 and died on the 2nd of December 1985. Loaded by SpokenVerse and read by Tom O' Bedlam who has many fine recordings out there. And that will be it ....

Willie Nelson - Energy Follows Thought (Official Lyric Video)

Willie Nelson ~ Energy Follows Thought (Official Lyric Video)

One of the last of the great American balladeers and outlaws, Willie Nelson has been turning out great songs for what seems an 'Age'. Heard this one on the radio last night and hope it stays up. I'd suggest a visit to Youtube to read the many comments and credits. There are few of these guys left now and with Cohen, Dylan, Kristofferson, Simon, to mention but a few, you are talking of real poets.  

The Waterford Poetry Prize 2022!

 The Waterford Poetry Prize 2022!

The deadline for the above is Friday the 12th of August and there is no age limit and no entry fee. It is part of the Waterford Writers Weekend during the Imagine Arts Festival. The first prize is €400 plus attendance at a designated writing course at the Molly Keane Writers Retreat, Ardmore in 2023 and the second prize is €300 plus a writing course in Ardmore. The third prize is €200. The judge for the competition is the writer and poet Colm Keegan and the competition is open to all writers living on the island of Ireland. The prize emerged from the influence of the late Waterford writer Sean Dunne.

Full information and details of entry conditions can be had by clicking on the link to Poetry Ireland to the right/ Opportunity for Writers - Competitions & Awards or by contacting the Arts Office, Waterford City & County Council. 

For enquiries contact: The Arts Officer - Margaret Organ, morgan@waterfordcouncil.ie

Guided Poetry Writing with Poet Alice Kinsella Episode 2

Guided Poetry Writing with Poet Alice Kinsella Episode 2

Back to the second episode of the creative writing session by Alice Kinsella. So if the muse has flown and you need a little inspiration and have a some time on your hands why not give a listen. Could be a poem or two here. With thanks to the Linenhall Arts Centre who posted and of course Alice Kinsella for the insights. 

An Tobar Poetry Reading/July 2022!

 An Tobar Poetry Reading/July 2022!

James McConnell and Olivia Barnes were the generous hosts for the July meeting of the An Tobar Group, with the event being held the in the outdoor setting of their beautiful gardens. The theme for the afternoon was 'Nature' or your relationship in some way as to how it impacted on your life. Jim Owens was the MC for the afternoon with poems by writers such as Francis Ledwidge and Alexander Pope featuring a number of times. Reginald Arkell's poem 'Journey's End' was read by James as a tribute to Dermot O' Neill the Irish broadcaster  and gardener who passed away on Friday the 1st of July and there were a number of poems in the same vein as to our surroundings. John D. Sheridan got a mention a number of times and many people read their own compositions. Also Oscar Wilde and William Wordsworth were not forgotten with Sean Reilly's reading of Max Ehrmann's 'A Prayer' something to be remembered. There were over twenty five readings in all and a number of foreign guests on what turned out a very pleasant afternoon. All rounded off by refreshments for those who came. The next meeting of the group is in September.    

The Meath Writers' Circle/July Meeting!

The Meath Writers' Circle/ July Meeting!

The next meeting of the writers' group is in Navan Library on Thursday Night at 7pm. Bring along a poem or a story or just yourself. All are welcome. Hope to see you there.  

Guided Poetry Writing with Poet Alice Kinsella Episode 1

Guided Poetry Writing with Poet Alice Kinsella Episode 1

I once attended a poetry workshop organized by Meath County Library as part of the Eist poetry competition and did get a poem out of it and a book as well. (Ruth Padel - 52 Ways of Looking At A Poem). Nessa O' Mahony was in charge and there were a number of well known poets and writers there, the event being organized by Tom French. So as to creative writing, anything that will trigger inspiration, or elaborate on the means to tap into such is to be welcomed. The poet Alice Kinsella and The Linenhall Arts Centre loaded the above poetry workshop during the Covid crisis, so if you have a little time on your hands then why not get the pen and paper out. I've borrowed from the 'Share' button and with thanks.. 

Scurlogstown Olympiad and Haymaking Festival 2022!

 Scurlogstown Olympiad and Haymaking Festival 2022!

Eddie Quinn and Ray Murtagh

On Stage

Made it in to the Olympiad on Sunday where a large crowd turned out for what was the first Festival after the Covid restrictions. Great to see the event up and running again and such a large crowd out on a very pleasant afternoon.  But getting parking was sure difficult. Ray and Eddie put on a great show but there were many other events going on all over the field and the children were having a great time at the amusement arcade end. Also entry was free for the junior set so where better to bring them on a day out. There were traditional music sessions as well and stalls representing rural traditions and pastimes with book sales and other items and not forgetting the heritage and haymaking events.  

Bloomsday's Coming...

Bloomsday's is here...

Loaded by The James Joyce Centre, Dublin to celebrate 100 years of Ulysses and with thanks. I wonder what the man himself would think were he to wander round Dublin today. I think it was Benedict Kiely who said an Irish writer's no good unless he's been banned or something along the lines of such. But then Joyce was never banned here, at least not officially. Banned everywhere else .... With regard to most of our writers who have, the mainstream media likes to keep them at a safe distance in case they'd interrupt the soap operas. Anyway enjoy the day. 

Sailing to Byzantium - W. B. Yeats (Powerful Life Poetry)

Yeats Day 2022!

With thanks to Jim Owens for the reminder: W. B. Yeats was born 157 years ago today on June 13th 1865 and died on January the 28th 1939. With regard to the above recording please go to the Youtube site to read the notes and comments. RedFrost Motivation loaded and there are others there as well that are worth a listen. 

An Tobar Group/ Poetry Reading!

 Good morning and Greetings Poetry People 

Hope June is treating you well.

Some may remember we had a very pleasant afternoon last year in James McConnell and Olivia Barne's  gardens

They are kindly extending an invitation again this year

Sunday 3rd July at 3pm. * Note time change!

Their address is Churchtown, Navan Co Meath Eircode is C15 XF84  (Tel 085 7829966 James)

Suggested Theme: Gardens and nature in general. Our friend Francis Ledwidge could be a source!!

Of course as we often say any poem that is special for you is special for the group.

By the way two events in the coming week

• 13th June marks the birthday of WB Yeats, 157 years ago!. 13th June is now Yeats Day, especially in his beloved adopted Sligo.
• 16th June is now the famous Blooms Day.

• And the important date for our diaries is Sunday 3rd July in the gardens of James and Olivia.

Hope you can join us and feel welcome to invite along anyone who may be interested in the poetry session.

Best wishes and happy poetic reading

Jim Owens

Mobile: 087 9676728

Email: jim@slip.ie

Bread and Roses ~ Poetry Award 2022!

Bread And Roses ~ Poetry Award 2022!

Culture Matters is pleased to announce that the sixth Bread and Roses Poetry Award is now open for entries.

As you know, our mission is to promote cultural democracy in all the arts and other cultural activities. We have been running the Bread and Roses Poetry Awards to create opportunities for working people to write poetry, and to encourage poets to focus on themes which are meaningful to working-class communities.

There can’t be much doubt about meaningful themes this year. We face a cost-of-living crisis – rising prices for food, fuel and energy, with the value of benefits going down, and increased pressure on jobseekers. We’ll see an increase in poverty in many areas of the country and amongst many communities. Homelessness and poor health are still major threats to working people, including mental health problems, exacerbated by the recent pandemic.

On top of these economic and social problems, we're faced with political problems: the lies, deception, hypocrisy, incompetence, cronyism and callous lack of compassion of our political rulers in Downing St., Westminster and Dublin.

As in previous years, there will be 5 prizes of £100 for the best poems. Following on from the success of A Fish Rots From The Head, our free downloadable anthology of images and poetry, we will publish online and printed versions of the anthology later in the year.

The judges will be Andy Croft, poet and publisher of Smokestack Books, and Fran Lock, poet and Associate Editor of Culture Matters.

Submission Rules and Guidelines 

1. You may enter one or two original, previously unpublished (in print) poems in English, each no more than 50 lines long.

2. You must be resident in the United Kingdom or Republic of Ireland.

3. Entry is free and there will be five prizes of £100 each for the best poems.

4. Entries should broadly deal with themes relevant to working-class life, politics, communities and culture in 2022.

5. Entries should be sent to info@culturematters.org.uk by midnight on 30th September 2022. No entries will be accepted after that date.

6. Please include the poem(s) and your name, address, and contact details in the body of the email.

7. All entries remain the copyright of the author but Culture Matters will have the right to publish them online and in print.

8. By entering the Award, entrants agree to accept and be bound by the rules of the Award and the decisions of the judges. We are unable to respond individually to submissions.

Copies of They Want All Our Teeth To Be Theirs: The Bread and Roses Poetry Anthology 2021 (along with many other fine books of political poetry) are available to buy here.

Closing Date: 30th September 2022 

The Meath Writers' Circle/Annual Magazine 2022!

The Meath Writers' Circle/Annual Magazine 2022!

* The magazine is now closed for submissions and I'd like to thank everyone who sent pieces in for consideration. Very much appreciated, especially from those who are outside the group. Hopefully it will all come together and we can have a launch this year. But, as they say: "Never there till it's there". Be good!  

The Meath Writers' Circle ~ June Meeting 2022!

 The Meath Writers' Circle ~ June Meeting 2022!

The next meeting of The Meath Writers' Circle takes place this Thursday coming in Navan Library at 7pm. All are welcome to attend. Bring a poem or story to read; your own creation, or perhaps some favourite from the past, schooldays etc. Hope to see you there! 

Bob Dylan - Song to Woody (Official Audio)

Bob Dylan ~ Song to Woody 

A quick search and an old favourite. Something for his 81st Birthday. Born on the 24t of May 1941. A tribute to Woody Guthrie. Official audio. Go to Youtube for comments. Enjoy!  

An Tobar ~ Poetry for Pleasure!

An Tobar ~ Poetry for Pleasure.

Just a reminder from Jim Owens that the Poetry for Pleasure meeting is in An Tobar, Ardbraccan tonight at 7.30pm and the suggested theme is on the poetry of Francis Ledwidge. All are welcome to this event. Read or just come and enjoy the company.

TEARS IN RAIN | Why is it so special?

Vangelis~ The Blade Runner.

The Greek composer Vangelis died on Tuesday the 17th of May and the credits to his name are just too numerous to mention. Stunning compositions that are unforgettable. I've loaded the end scene from the Blade Runner before and could have picked something else that he composed the music for; and maybe I will, but another chance to indulge myself. This was loaded by Canadalorian and with thanks. Go to youtube to read the comments on the above. 

Vangelis: Born 29th of March 1943

                 Died 17th of May 2022

Theo Dorgan reads "Ithaca"

Theo Dorgan reads 'Ithaca'

What set me after this reading was a poem sent in for this year's magazine. There are a number of readings of 'Ithaca' out there but I settled for Theo Dorgan's. A favourite poem of Jackie Kennedy and one that was read at her funeral, give a listen and maybe buy a copy of the magazine for another take if we make it there ourselves. From the UCD Special Library Collections and with thanks. Poem written by Constantine Cavafy: April 29th 1863 - April 29th 1933. Check him out!  

An Tobar~ Reflection Day!

An Tobar ~ Reflection Day!

Friends, 

Excuse me but I wish to invite you to An Tobar on Saturday. 

You may be interested in an exciting day's reflection in An Tobar, Ardbraccan this coming Saturday.

Upcoming Reflection Day Saturday 14th May 

Facilitator  Aidan Mathews a  poet and prophet, a person with a great way with words is sharing some of the insights of  

The Work of René Girard (1929 - 2015)

Aidan has titled the day's reflections 

'A Gospel for Our Time'

10.00am-4.00pm light lunch included in the cost. Booking Essential.

Call An Tobar office for booking 046 9078973 or more info from 

Jim Owens 087 9676728