After last week’s excitement of the cinema performance of our video for Culture Night 2024, as well as the launch itself – including a dedication by the President of Ireland personally – , it’s back to business this week. We have a collection of stories and a poem to offer, and, time allowing, discussions on two masterworks of the art by famous established writers.

Frank Fahy‘s stories generally focus on the human element and man’s struggle with the challenges thrown up by life. However, the title of tonight’s presentation alone indicates a tale with a lighter and more humorous touch.

Mary Hodson is establishing a collection of intimate memoirs showing traditions and rites of the Irish countryside which have been lost in the country’s surge into the twenty-first century. ‘The Ritual’ presents a detailed account of the daily saying of the Rosary, a custom gradually nudged aside by the appearance of TV and ‘The Riordans’.

Mary’s story ‘The Fence’, on the other hand, relates a whimsical encounter which might still be witnessed in the depths of Connemara or Kerry!

Josephine McCann‘s poem reflects on modern life and how our culture and attitudes have shifted in the year 2024. It’s a contemplative look at the present, examining both the changes and challenges of our times.

Raymond Carver‘s sparse story and Seamus Heaney‘s unique glimpse of the wonders of nature provide material for our members to learn from the great masters.

We welcome everyone to another session of inspiring, creative and enjoyable listening as well as lively discussions!

PS: Don’t forget to enter your text for the monthly Mug of the Month competition: a maximum of 50 words including a form of the words LIVE and TREAT. The deadline for entries is Sunday 29 September. Send to annemurraypost@yahoo.ie

Programme

Short Story Aunt Nora and Dangerous Dan Frank Fahy

Short Story The Ritual Mary Hodson

Short Story The Fence Mary Hodson

Poem The Now of 2024 Josephine McCann

Bonus Material Discussion re ‘Why Don’t We Dance?’ by Raymond Carver All Members

Bonus Material Discussion re ‘Postscript’ by Seamus Heaney All Members