Walter Macken Livres

Originally written in 1952, and soon banned in Ireland, New Island’s Modern Irish Classics series brings this masterwork back to life. Orphaned at a young age, Cahal Kinsella returns from an industrial school in Letterfrack to the small farming village of Caherlo, Co. Galway to his tyrannical grandfather, and must assert his individuality if he is to have any hope of freedom from his misery. Walter Macken paints a haunting and memorable portrait of the hard life of subsistence farming, of loveless arranged marriages, and of rebellion against suffocating social mores

The story follows Mico, a gentle giant, as he navigates the transition from boyhood to manhood, driven by his deep love for the sea and a beautiful young girl whose smile captivates him. The narrative explores themes of passion, innocence, and the profound impact of love on one's journey through life. Mico's character embodies a blend of strength and tenderness, highlighting the emotional depth of his experiences as he grapples with his feelings and aspirations.

Set against the stunning backdrop of Connemara, the narrative follows Stephen O'Riordan, whose deep-rooted connection to his homeland fuels his aspirations. His life is intertwined with a tumultuous romance with Kathleen, the sister of his fiercest rival. This story weaves themes of love, rivalry, and the complexities of ambition, capturing the emotional landscape of a man torn between his desires and the conflicts surrounding him.

The story revolves around Sullivan, a talented actor whose remarkable gifts and intense temperament shape his life. His ability to captivate audiences and charm women showcases the duality of his artistry, presenting both the blessings and challenges that come with such a profound talent. The narrative explores the complexities of his character and the impact of his gifts on his relationships and personal journey.

The story follows Bart O'Breen, a fiercely independent and proud individual who pursues his own path, indifferent to the pain he causes others. His journey is marked by a profound sense of loneliness, reflecting the emotional toll of his choices. The narrative delves into themes of pride, isolation, and the consequences of one's actions, painting a complex portrait of a man who embodies both strength and solitude.

From the author of Seek the Fair Land, The Scorching Wind and The Silent People

The third book in the acclaimed Irish trilogy

The second book in the acclaimed Irish trilogy

These Stories, rich with the passion and drama which characterise all of Walter Macken's writing, were conceived by the author as a thematic collection, providing a stunning evocation of the life and people of Galway in the 1940s. They document a time and a place, yet they also have a timeless appeal in their portrayal of the people of the city whom Macken knew and loved so well. Full of insight and humour, they do not romanticise the past; rather they celebrate the qualities or ordinary people in their struggles with poverty, with political conservatism and with the sea, ever-present elements in the life of the city of the tribes.

A terrifying storm washes Conor, his little brother, and two American friends up on to Ox Island where they become prisoners of the eccentric Lady Agnes who will stop at nothing to uncover the Druid Treasure.