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Brendan Kennelly in 2009.
THE renowned poet, novelist, playwright and educator, Brendan Kennelly, is to be honoured for his contribution to literature throughout his life next weekend in his home village.
The Cathaoirleach of Kerry County Council, Cllr. Michael O’Shea will host a reception by the local authority to honour a man who is regarded as a national treasure on Saturday, January 21 next at 2pm.
It will take place in the Parish Hall, Ballylongford. Kennelly, who retired from his position as Professor of Modern Literature at Trinity College, Dublin in 2005, turned 80 last year.
I am so pleased to hear that. I spoke to him on many occasion in Grafton street and he was always so polite. I was starting to wonder why something like this was never done sooner. He is such a great poet who needs more recognition for his work. I am so pleased he will receive this honour. Well over due but look it’s taking place soon. I wrote a poem for him and it will feature in my up and coming poetry collection ” libertys Moon” published in America. If you would like me to send you the poem I would gladly send it to you. It’s a short poem but very poignant.