Ethna MacCarthy: Poems

This collection showcases the remarkable poetry of Ethna MacCarthy, an influential Irish poet whose work deserves renewed appreciation.

This unique collection of Ethna MacCarthy: Poems serves as a significant introduction to the work of Ethna MacCarthy, positioning her as one of the most notable Irish poets of the mid-20th century. MacCarthy, who lived from 1903 to 1959, was not only a scholar at Trinity College Dublin but also a translator and a creative force in the literary scene of post-Independence Dublin. Her relationships with prominent writers, including Samuel Beckett, have cast a long shadow over her legacy, yet her own poetic voice remains compelling and worthy of exploration.

The poems reveal a highly intelligent and culturally sophisticated artist who navigated the complexities of her time with grace and insight. In Ethna MacCarthy: Poems, readers will find a diverse range of themes, from lunar landscapes to explorations of femininity, all crafted with a distinct style that reflects her background in translation. MacCarthy’s ability to evoke emotion through her work demonstrates her talent as both a poet and a translator, capturing the essence of the original languages she worked with.

This collection not only highlights MacCarthy’s literary contributions but also calls for a reevaluation of her place in literary history. As Denis Johnston noted, she was fearless and outspoken, qualities that resonate throughout her poetry. With this innovative publication, Ethna MacCarthy: Poems invites a new audience to appreciate the depth and richness of her work, affirming her significance in the narrative of Irish literature.