“A towering presence in the world of Irish literature”
John O’Donnell

“[Dennis O’Driscoll] knew more about poetry than anyone else I ever met”
Vincent Woods, RTÉ Arts Tonight

“With poetry,” Dennis O’Driscoll once said, “you never retire and you never really know your grade – it will be assigned posthumously.” Since his sudden death late last year, a host of leading poets and writers from all over the world have stepped forward to pay tribute to a poet who, in the words of Seamus Heaney, “added a new growth ring to the old traditional tree of Irish poetry.”

The author of numerous collections, as well as works of criticism and biography, O’Driscoll’s poetry (as well as his life) often invited comparisons to Philip Larkin. Like Larkin, O’Driscoll balanced his poetry with a lifetime spent in public service, but the bleakness of his world view was tempered by humanity and wit. An extraordinarily learned critic, he corresponded throughout his life with poets all over the world, from WH Auden to Les Murray, acting as a mentor and sounding board to both accomplished and aspiring writers. His achievements were recognised by numerous awards, including a Lannan literary award and the EM Forster award of the American Academy of Letters, but tonight Dennis O’Driscoll: A Celebration gathers leading poets, writers and critics – including German-born poet Michael Hofmann (Behind the lines: pieces on writing and pictures), Matthew Hollis (Ground Water) and special guest Seamus Heaney– to pay tribute to the life and work of this much- missed and greatly respected figure. Presented in association with Poetry Ireland.Please note due to unforeseen circumstances Thomas Lynch will no longer be present at this event.