Frank O'Connor, un homme de lettres irlandais par excellence, est surtout célébré pour ses nouvelles évocatrices et ses mémoires franches. Son écriture explore profondément la condition humaine, puisant souvent dans ses propres expériences de vie à Cork et reflétant les complexités de l'identité et de l'histoire irlandaises. La prose d'O'Connor est réputée pour sa chaleur, sa perspicacité psychologique et sa représentation authentique de la vie quotidienne. Il a également apporté des contributions significatives en tant que critique littéraire et traducteur, rapprochant la poésie irlandaise d'un public plus large grâce à sa voix distinctive.
O'Connor's translations are driven by a deep passion to revive Ireland's history, embodying his belief in the importance of reflecting on the past to inform the future. His work seeks to connect contemporary readers with the rich cultural heritage of Ireland, emphasizing the significance of historical narratives in shaping identity and understanding.
This comprehensive collection features a diverse array of short stories, autobiographical writings, poetry, and essays by a celebrated writer often referred to as "Ireland's Chekhov." It highlights the author's unique voice and profound insights into Irish culture and identity, showcasing their literary prowess and emotional depth. The anthology serves as a rich exploration of themes such as love, loss, and the human experience, making it an essential read for fans of Irish literature and poetry.
Set in a bustling seaside resort, the narrative follows an Elite Coastguard Special Operations unit tasked with search and rescue amidst the challenges of a busy waterway. The discovery of heroin at a nearby beach triggers intense shootouts and chases, while the suspicious death of a farmer raises questions about potential connections. As tensions escalate, the unit faces additional pressure when a light aircraft issues a May-day call during a major boating event, complicating their already demanding mission.
The contents have been intriguingly divided into eight narrative threads that influenced and informed O'Connor's oeuvre. The stories in Lonely Voices movingly demonstrate O'Connor's theory that in this genre can be achieved 'something we do not often find in the novel - an intense awareness of human loneliness';
The narrative explores the transformative journey of a shy boy from a Cork slum, who discovers a sense of grandeur beyond his immediate surroundings. Through his experiences, the book delves into themes of aspiration and the contrast between humble beginnings and the pursuit of a broader existence. O'Connor's reflections highlight the complexities of his upbringing and the awakening of his dreams, offering insight into the human spirit's resilience and desire for something greater.
The Mad Lomasneys and Other Stories from Collection Two
Focusing on the life and impact of Michael Collins, this biography by Frank O'Connor offers a deep and compassionate exploration of his character and achievements. Recognized for his stature and genius, Collins is portrayed with both critical insight and empathy. The book served as the inspiration for Neil Jordan's film "Michael Collins," which adds a layer of cinematic context, complemented by a new introduction from Jordan himself.
The story of the title deals with a little boy named Larry and his feelings towards his father. When his father returns home from World War II, Larry is resentful and jealous of losing his mother's undivided attention, and finds himself in a constant struggle to win back her affections.
A collection of four of O'Connor's short stories, often written from the point of view of a child or an individual outside of society's conventions. They are The Genius, My Oedipus Complex, The Ugly Duckling and Song Without Words.
The stories collected here demonstrates the richness of the short story tradition in Ireland from the end of the last century to the period following the Second World War. The authors represented are: George Moore, Somerville and Ross, Daniel Corkery, Jame Stephens, Liam O'Flaherty, L.A.G. Strong, Sean O'Faoláin, Frank O'Connor, Eric Cross, Michael McLaverty, Bryan MacMahon, Mary Lavin, James Plunkett, James Joyce, and Elizabeth Bowen. `this is as good a collection of stories as you could find anywhere and fully deserves its new description "classic".' Books and Bookmen
