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Travel Literature
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Travel in Ireland seems to inspire writers, and it is equally true that a smartly written travel journal can inspire one to travel well. Hence, the following suggestions.
Silver Linings by Martin Fletcher is a compelling portrait of Northern Ireland at odds with its bruised and tarnished image as a war-scarred region. Northerners on both sides of the divide are friendly, funny and as welcoming as anyone else on the island.
A Place Apart by Dervla Murphy tells of the author’s bicycle journey through Northern Ireland in the 1970s. It’s a highly readable introduction to such topics as Orangeism, Paisleyism and the problems in South Armagh.
Is Shane McGowan Still Alive? Travels in Irishry is Tim Bradford’s epic journey through the myths of modern Ireland. Where have all the legends gone? And where can he get a decent pint of Guinness?
The Truth About the Irish is Terry Eagleton’s marvellous and loving poke at the myths peddled about the Irish at home and abroad; more for entertainment than serious information.
The Oxford Illustrated Literary Guide to Great Britain and Ireland traces the movements of famous writers who immortalised various towns and villages in Ireland.
A Literary Guide to Dublin by Vivien Igoe delves into the Irish capital’s literary haunts, with pubs and cemeteries naturally using up their share of the word count.
Joyce’s Dublin: A Walking Guide to Ulysses by Jack McCarthy caters to Bloomsday junkies wanting a year-round fix. It follows the novel chapter by chapter and has clear maps.
McCarthy’s Bar is a colourful account of author Pete McCarthy’s attempt to rediscover Ireland by having a pint in every pub that bears his name. His follow-up, The Road to McCarthy, is a look at the Irish diaspora.
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