'All of us who follow this path could do no better than to keep this book on our shelves as an example of how this project can be achieved.' Irish Book Review 'A comprehensive view, not only of Ireland and Irish Writers but of their relevance in the world the texts read seamlessly. There is no jargon, no sentences that are designed to dazzle and academic audience, just straightforward down to earth prose that can be profitably read by anyone with a passion for ideas. There is more than enough to stimulate debate and set people thinking in this invaluable and beautifully presented set of essays.' Sunday Tribune 'There is a clear sense in all his writings, as in those of the late Edward Said, of an intellectual speaking over the heads of a narrow academic audience to the wider public. Part of the general appeal of his work, aside from its lucidity and rhetorical momentum, is the sense that something important is being articulated.' The Times Literary Supplement
