Celebrating the words and world of John McGahern
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The words of one of Ireland’s most celebrated writers came alive in Ballymote on Saturday 12 September, as readers, researchers and literary enthusiasts gathered to celebrate the life and work of John McGahern.
Held in the beautiful Art Deco Theatre and Cinema in Ballymote, Seeing the Words, Hearing the Words: A Celebration of the Quiet Power and Beauty of one of Ireland’s most important Literary Figures, John McGahern, marked the 20th anniversary of McGahern’s death.
The event was organised by TU Dublin PhD student Marie Louise O’Donnell, whose research provided the inspiration for a day of conversation, reflection and celebration. Bringing together a strong TU Dublin contingent with the local community, the event offered a fitting tribute to a writer whose work remains deeply rooted in the people, places and landscapes of Ireland.
Among the keynote speakers was Dr Eamon Maher, Joint Principal Investigator of the Centre for Irish Studies at TU Dublin and an internationally recognised expert on John McGahern, who shared his insights into the author's life, work and enduring literary legacy and his enduring literary legacy. Marie Louise O’Donnell also delivered a keynote, drawing on her doctoral research and her particular interest in McGahern’s work. Dr Brian Murphy, Government and Community Advocacy Lead at TU Dublin, acted as MC for the seminar, helping to bring together the different voices and perspectives throughout the day.
The title Seeing the Words, Hearing the Words captured something essential about McGahern’s writing. His prose is often described as quiet and understated, yet beneath that apparent simplicity lies an extraordinary richness of voice, rhythm and observation. The event invited audiences to slow down and listen to those words afresh.
Ballymote was a particularly fitting place for the celebration. Surrounded by the landscapes and communities that speak so strongly to McGahern’s work, the setting created a natural connection between the writer, his writing and the people who continue to read and engage with it.
For Marie Louise, the event was also an opportunity to bring her PhD research beyond the university and into a wider conversation about McGahern’s contribution to Irish literature.
Twenty years after his death, John McGahern’s quiet voice continues to speak.
