On the Side of Light

Cathal Ó Searcaigh is one of the leading Irish poets of the past twenty-five years. His poetry is widely published in the original Irish and in translation. This, however, is the first collection of critical essays dealing with his work. Gathered here are eight essays by Irish, American and Japanese writers; an interview with the poet himself; original poems; and previously unpublished photographs and translations. The collection’s international array of both contributors and perspectives reflects the breadth and scope of Ó Searcaigh’s work, and also provides an indication of the high esteem in which his work is held.

Remarkably diverse issues and themes are explored in Ó Searcaigh’s poetry. These include language, place, religion, sexuality, tradition, modernity, and also the influence of other poets from Ireland and beyond. For those unfamiliar with the poet’s work, this volume provides a useful introduction to his poetry; and for those already familiar with his writing, each essay offers new readings of, and fresh returns to, favourite Ó Searcaigh poems, some of which are key texts in the contemporary Irish literature scene.