Local poet Jimmy Cullinane arrived at Hughes’ Bar, Cordal at 1.10pm on Saturday, only to be greeted by five visitors from West Cork, Clare and Sligo!
Referring to the launch of The Hillside Scribbler, these supporters said they ‘wouldn’t miss it’ and were delighted to have travelled down for the long anticipated book launch which commenced at 2pm.
42 Original Poems
After an initial gathering and welcome, Jimmy signed copies of the book which contains 42 original poems.
Many supporters mentioned that copies were being purchased as Christmas presents for family and friends.
Cáit Curtin from Knocknagoshel introduced the book and spoke of how Jimmy’s passion for poetry and writing has gone from strength to strength since he joined local writers’ group Scríbhneoiri Sliabh Luachra in 2012.
The Loving Irish
This was followed by Thady O’Connor from Kilcummin who sang Jimmy’s poem The Loving Irish. The book was then officially launched by local musician Nicky McAuliffe who recalled the strong tradition of poetry in the Sliabh Luachra region from the 1650s to the present day.
He cited local poets Aogán Ó Rathaille and Eoghan Rua Ó Súilleabháin and compared Jimmy’s writing to their works.
There was poetry, storytelling, singing, music and dancing throughout the afternoon.
Some 300 supporters attended the launch from all parts of Kerry, Cork, Limerick, Dublin, Clare and Sligo.
First Solo Publication
Jimmy was overwhelmed with the particularly strong turnout and has expressed his gratitude to all who contributed to the launch and purchased a copy of his first solo publication.
“The book is an example of our community successfully working together; from the poems being written by a local, to being printed by Walsh Colour Print and being launched in Cordal,” said Jimmy;s son Dónal.
Available Locally or by Post
The Hillside Scribbler can be purchased from a number of local outlets, including: Jackie Reidy’s, Browne’s Bar and and The Green Door Restaurant in Castleisland and in Kearney’s Post Office, Cordal.
A number of books have been already been posted to England, America and Australia.
This can be organised and the book can be purchased directly from Jimmy by contacting him at 087 7060513 or by emailing cullinanejames8@gmail.com.
