Confronting Shadows: An Introduction to the Poetry of Thomas Kinsella
Confronting Shadows: An Introduction to the Poetry of Thomas Kinsella
by David Lynch
Providing a detailed reading of poems from different eras, Confronting Shadows is an entrance for students and other readers into the work of one of the leading Irish poets of the modern era.
C-Format Paperback | 306pp | ISBN: 9781848402874 | Release Date: 15 February 2015
Thomas Kinsella’s poetry is amongst the most challenging, but also the most rewarding. In this exciting new introduction, David Lynch investigates the themes that underlie Kinsella’s work, uncovering motifs of Irish history, political struggle, love, death, war, God and the fractured psyche. Engaging with the connections and rhythms that resonate throughout Kinsella’s poetry, and drawing on the work of philosophers and psychologists, Lynch reveals the ways in which Kinsella’s work is a response to the ordeal of modern life. Providing a detailed reading of poems from different eras, Confronting Shadows is an entrance for students and other readers into the work of one of the leading Irish poets of the modern era.
About the Author
David Lynch is a multi-award-winning journalist. He has reported from Palestine, Israel and the Egyptian revolution during 2011–2012. His work has appeared in the Sunday Business Post, The Village, the Medical Independent and on RTÉ Radio amongst others. This is his third book. Read David Lynch's article, 'Thomas Kinsella, Tahrir Square and the nature of heroism', in The Irish Times: 'The idea of writing a general introduction to the poetry of arguably Ireland's greatest living poet was forged in Cairo days full of tear gas, resistance and deadlines'
Reviews
“Excellent introduction...David Lynch also brings a unique perspective to understanding Kinsella’s work...Lynch’s introduction offers a fresh and engaging perspective on the work of Ireland’s most important contemporary poet.”
“Kinsella’s poetry, his outlook on life, have always been of the most serious kind; and so too is this superb exploration of his work by David Lynch...In delving into the Kinsella cauldron, Lynch’s intensity of focus is a match for the poet’s own intensity...Lynch’s insightful commentary weaves its way from poem to poem with careful cross-reference between various poems, periods and shifts in the Kinsella oeuvre.”
“David Lynch’s careful, informed and insightful study is welcome. His analysis of some of the poems is often revealing, and he has researched this demanding poet’s work responsibly…”
