'Mirror in February' - by Thomas Kinsella (S1e6)

About the Poem

This short poem,  'Mirror In February', which was included for study on the former Leaving Certificate English syllabus, is familiar to generations of Irish schoolgoers. 

 It first appeared in the 1963 collection Downstream, is in many ways typical of Kinsella’s poetry in general.

The poem, set in February as the natural world begins to slowly wake and renew itself, presents the speaker as a humble and solitary figure suddenly overwhelmed and reflecting on the significance of the passing of his own advancing years.

Near the end of 'Mirror In February', Kinsella does ask and enquire of us an interpretation, that of course, I will always leave open to yourself.
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About the Poet

Thomas Kinsella is an Irish poet and was born in Inchicore in Dublin in 1928.

He belongs to a generation of writers whose main concern as a poet was not to limit themselves  to Irish topics but to explore a wider range of ideas and themes. 

In 1965, he become writer in residence at Southern Illinois University, in 1970 he became a professor of English at Temple University in Philadelphia and was awarded the Guggenheim Fellowship for Creative Arts on two occasions in 1968 & 1971

In 1972, he started Peppercanister Press to publish his own work. 

 He received the Honorary Freedom of the City of Dublin in May 2007 and most recently, in December 2018, received and honory Doctorate of Letters from Trinity College of Dublin, having also taught the Irish Tradition Programme at the same university.

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How to Listen and follow

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Thanks for listening  - Till next time..

Slán go fóill

Declan
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Favorite Musical Versions  (YouTube Links)

Thomas Kinsella - Gate Theatre 

Thomas Kinsella - Lifetime Achievement Award
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Tags

#february #spring #mirrorinfebruary #poetry #Dublin&