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Stimulus of Sin

Stimulus of Sin

Edited by Madeline Kingston

Author: John Broderick
€17,00 EUR
€17,00 EUR
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Athlone-born writer John Broderick was an astringent commentator on the rapidly shifting mores of Ireland from the 1950s to the 1980s. Better known for his novels, he was also a prolific reviewer and essayist. This new collection brings together a fascinating and eclectic selection of his book reviews and other journalism, as well as some previously unpublished short fiction.

Between 1956 and 1988 Broderick produced over three hundred review columns on a wide range of books and topics. A carefully chosen selection of these include his thoughts on Francis Stuart, Lee Dunne, Padraic Fallon, Oscar Wilde, Kate O’Brien and Liam O’Flaherty, among others. His journalism also gave him space to reflect on other preoccupations, such as Athlone, Irish society, the Church, books, writers and human nature. It allowed him freedom to write humorously, seriously, sometimes pessimistically, even savagely. His writings are of increasing relevance and interest in today’s Ireland.

Details

ISBN: 9781843510963

Extent: 304

Published:

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Praise and Reviews

  • ‘Reading these pages of Broderick’s journalism and his unpublished stories is a very moving experience.’ – Colm Tóibín

  • ‘John Broderick explores frustrated life, soured ideals and the pattern of dark religious and anti-religious stupidity in an Irish town…he throws a light of truth and understanding into very dark holes in the Irish spirit… he is one determined and melancholy kind of realist.’ – Kate O’Brien

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About the Author

The novelist John Broderick was born in Connaught Street, Athlone in 1924. Among his 12 published novels, his best known is The Pilgrimage (1961). His bestseller, An Apology for Roses (1973), sold 30,000 copies in the first week of its publication in 1973.

 He died in Bath, England where he had lived for eight years. Following his death, he bequeathed his estate to the Arts Council of Ireland for ‘the benefit and enhancement of the Arts in Athlone’.

 His writer in residency series, supported by this fund and based in Athlone, is run in partnership with Westmeath County Council. This 2024 publication of The Waking of Willie Ryan, celebrating the centenary of John Broderick's birth, has been funded through the John Broderick Bequest.

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