Literary reading by Mary O'Donnell at the University of Granada Description: "What I have found the most interesting about Mary O'Donnell's work and her visit is her exploration and connections between different short stories in the short story collection Empire. Short stories such as 'Empire', 'The Black Church' and 'The Unchosen' offfer a new view of the events of the Easter Rising 1916 in Ireland, and being able to access her opinions and ideas on the matter directly, enriched the experience of reading and learning about other countries' relevant historical events! It did not affect my perception of her work, but also of the evolution of historical events such as the Anglo-Irish Treaty and the subsequent Irish Civil War and later cultural production." I found her visit really eye-opening! It was a wonderful experience! Aida F. Rot *** "Mary O'Donnell's reading at the 9th International Seminar on Irish Studies in Granada was as enlightening as it was comforting. With eloquence and grace, she offered insights into the writing process of her collection of interconnected short stories, Empire (2018). O'Donnell descirbed some of the reasons behind her authorial choices, explaining her particular interest in stories of ordinary people who lived during interesting times - in this case, the 1916 Easter Rising. What was particularly interesting for me was to find out how authentic accounts and objects (such as a pencil drawing of a prison cell) inspired fictional yet lifelike stories. Finally, Mary O'Donnell's reading gave me the impulse to pick up the storyteller's pen myself, to give into what she called the urge to write." Constantina-Ina Covaciu *** "I really enjoyed the literary reading by Mary O'Donnell at the University of Granada, and it was particularly captivating after having read her collection of short stories. Knowing he process that O'Donnell had followed to create and connect the different characters in these apparently separate stories was very fascinating. I also loved learning about the little glimpses of her personal life and upbringing that influenced her writing, because it makes the difficult events that she captures in these stories even more meaningful. Another aspect that I especially liked about O'Donnell's talk was the fact that she truly took into account the preferences of her audience when deciding which individual stories, topics or characters deserved more attention in the discussion. Listening to the author's insights made me want to re-read this short-story collection, and I am looking forward to reading more of Mary O'Donnell's works." Mónica Delgado Burgos *** "Having the opportunity to meet Mary O'Donnell in person was incredible. Listening to Mary talk about the writing process of her novel Empire was so inspiring. Her reading and analysis of the various selected passages and chapters of the book was a wonderful way to dig even deeper into the complex weave-like network of characters an story that she so masterfully crafted. It is always an honour and a privilege to have the opportunity to speak and ask questions face-to-face with the author of a book you have read - this honour is multiplied threefold with Mary, who is simply an amazing and kind person." Fco José Carmona Granados  *** "Being able to attend Mary O'Donnell's reading of Empire was a marvelous experience. She succeeded in engaging the audience while explaining everything we wanted to know about her writing techniques. In addition to that, the way she read and talked about highly sensitive topics such as colonial violence vwas very emotional and inspiring." Rocío Santiago Cardona *** "Listening to Mary O'Donnell's talk about Empire was truly inspiring. I was especially fascinated by how she connects minor characters across different stories, showing their perspectives and everyday lives during and after 1916. Her discussion of ordinary people and the effects of colonialism, along with the way she drew inspiration from real details such as a pencil drawing in a prison cell, helped me connect with the narrative on a deeper level. Being able to hear her insights directly added a new dimension to my understanding of her work and of Irish history during this period." Candela Alonso Pereira Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/eb369a42-9091-425b-8294-ea14a997a9bb_0.jpg Position: Signature Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/a1bd3d36-ad36-43e4-a93f-efea5bccf864.jpg

Mary O'Donnell at the University of Almería Description: "Listening to Mary O'Donnell speak about the Gothic dimensions of her fiction and discuss her novels from both a critical and deeply personal perspective offered invaluable insight into her writing practice, and underscored the continuing relevance of the Gothic as a powerful tool for literary and imaginative liberation." Ariadna García Carreño *** "It was a true priviliege to attend the discussion session with Mary O'Donnell. Discovering Gothic literature through the perspective of such a distinguished author was an inspiring and intellectually enriching experience. The intimate and open conversation created a space for deep reflection on literature, creativity, and academic life. Mary O'Donnell's speech at the university was exceptionally insightful, bright, and informative. Her reflections on writing and literary tradition have strongly influenced my academic and personal aspirations. After this encounter, I feel genuinely motivated to pursue a PhD doctorate and to continue developing a writing career more seriously. Being able to communicate directly with an author of her level was a rare pleasure and an unforgettable experience. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to learn from her work, her ideas, and her generosity as a speaker." Kateryna Solodskykh Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/PICTURE%203.jpg Position: Signature Image:

Conversation and Reading with Lucy Caldwell, University of Potsdam Description: "What stuck with me were Caldwell's concepts of 'emotional research' and 'emotional bravery'. She prefaced that before writing These Days, she felt a responsibility to tell the story as accurately as possible, especially because there is currently very little fiction about the Belfast Blitz. While she views it possible to write stories about experiences that are not your own, research of a city and its people were essential to her writing process. What surprised me is that this emotional aspect of Caldwell's research allowed her to connect joyful stories to a narrative which is otherwise characterised by victimhood. This I think underlines that what is seen as relevant societally are 'grand narrativs' or eeasily generalisable information, but Caldwell's work, which is individual and includes contradictions - moments of joy in a period of chaos and loss - resists this in a powerful manner." Olivia Fischer *** "We had the privilege to meet with Lucy Caldwell for a short reading of her book These Days, as well as her short story 'Unter den Linden'. The session also allowed us to ask questions, which proved very insightful for our understanding of the texts and Northern Irish fction as a whole and how it links with memory.  Emotion is blended into the novel These Days through Caldwell's descriptive prose, despite being, in many ways, a historical novel which follows real-life events (Belfast Blitz). Caldwell mentioned that, no matter how objective you try to write a novel like this, your own imagination, experience, and thus emotions factor in in some small ways. The chapter about Betty is emotional of course, and reinforces the last point Caldwell made to us which is that she cared more about feeling rather than plot when writing this novel (or any novel). the use of this character is a personification for Belfast and thosse lives lost during its often overlooked war period. But the function of this elegy specifically, as Caldwell told us, is the use of words "to bind a grief in", or also "a way to keep it [the memory] safe." Matthew Leavy   Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/PHOTO-2025-11-24-19-55-03.jpg Position: Signature Image:

Reading and talk with Lucy Caldwell at the University of Kiel Description: "I received a much better impression of how Lucy writes her stories, specifically what the process is like. What stuck with me the most is when she mentioned how she tries not to send any particular message, but instead tries to write characters that the reader has to get intimately familiar with in their story. It's fascinating, hearing of this approach that wants the reader to try and empathize with her characters." *** "I believe that through this live-reading I managed to gain a much greater appreciation of the short stories and have become much more interested in Lucy's other works too." *** "The live reading by Lucy Caldwell was a very pleasant event. The setting was quite professional, yet felt very warm and welcoming at the same time. When being asked questions, Lucy not only answered thoughtfully but also on each topic. She frequently referenced friends, colleagues, and fellow authors who have inspired her, expressing genuine gratitude for the influences that shaped her work." *** "What really stuck with me was how Lucy goes out into the world (the streets of London to buy Lipstick) in order to "find" her characters and their "essence". It was very eye-opening. Reading a story and getting to know the characters in it is one thing, but learning the process of how these characters came to life, how they were "invented", was very interesting. I also learned more about short stories as a genre; how they are so much more than just a compacted story." *** "Getting to learn abou the work behind the work was very interesting, and getting more insight into Lucy Caldwell's thoughts, even throughout the process, felt rewarding in a way. She has so much knowledge that she works into and presents throught her own created stories/ world and characters." *** "I was luckily able to attend both the meet and greet as well as the reading with Lucy Caldwell last week. Both events, but especially the meet and greet gave me an incredible impression of Lucy and her literary world. While listening to her talk about her work, her experience and her interests, I felt inspired and amazed of her way of thinking. Her answers were full of life and made listening to her extremely easy. Though I was very tired at the end of the day, hearing her talk about niche topics such as the Belfast blitz sparked new interests in me and made me realize how much I don't actually know about the craft of literature, which is not a bad thing at all, staying curious and learning new things make these experiences so magical. Lucy took her time answering questions, whole heartedly letting us see glimpses of her creative writing process and how a story comes together. I personally did not ask any questions; however she still made sure to interact with all of us during the meet and greet, giving us the chance to ask whatever we want, she was patient and kind towards us, ultimately creating a save space even for those like me who prefer to listen. I am definitely going to purschase some of her collections and novels."  Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/20251126_183107.jpg Position: students & staff Signature Image:

Lucy Caldwell at the University of Flensburg Description: "Listening to Lucy Caldwell read from her short stories and novels was an absolute delight. Each piece she read was introduced with a description of not only itself but also of its development. It was fascinating to hear about her writing process - how little time some stories need, while others are written over a decade - and how her rhetorical choices serve each story's needs. I was also particularly excited to hear about her wish to fill spaces that had been left open in Northern Irish writing, in particular by centering female voices in her short stories. Overall, I think it's absolutely vital for those of us in Irish Studies to hear directly from writers and artists how they go about their work, and to experience Lucy Caldwell's visit to Flensburg." Carolin Böttcher *** "At Lucy Caldwell's reading, organised by EUF's Centre for Irish Sudies in the impressive rooms of the European Centre for Minority Issues in downtown Flensburg, the author read form her recent work, both form her short stories and from the novel These Days. What made this reading particularly interesting was the insight into her creative processes she provided around the extracts that were read. We learned about the specific cultural and political contexts in which her fiction is embedded, about the differences between writing a novel and writing a short story, and about the challenges of writing about 1940s Belfast while in lockdown in London during the pandemic. It was an enjoyable as well as informative evening." Rebekka Rohleder *** "Attending Lucy Caldwell's reading was a lovely experience! It was very interesting and inspiring to listen to her talk about and read from her books. The reading sparked my interest in learning more about Northern Irish culture and history. It was especially fascinating to hear tell the untold stories of women in Northern Ireland. I was also very inspired by her personal writing and editing experiences and by the way she explained how some of her stories came into being." Marlena Ewald *** "I had the great pleasure of attending Lcuy Caldwell's reading in Flensburg. As a student of English and history, the evening brought together two of my core academic interests. It was particularly compelling to gain insight into the ways in which Irish history and culture have shaped Caldwell's work. While I thoroughly enjoyed listening to her read, it was her reflections and anecdotes about how these stories came to life that I found truly inspiring." Alina Wanner Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/IMG_1267%281%29.jpg Position: audience members Signature Image:

Lucy Caldwell at the University of Aarhus Description: "I was blown away by Lucy Caldwell, and it felt really special to share the experience with my mother - I have been returning to Intimacies again and again." "The event was lovely and it was very interesting to hear about Caldwell's writing process." "The Irish Itinerary offered our audience a valuable opportunity to engage wth a writer who comibines historical imagination with a sharp sense of what it means to be Irish in the world today." Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/Caldwell%20Signing.jpeg Position: students & staff Signature Image:

A Reading and Conversation with Lucy Caldwell at the University of Hamburg Description: Getting to meet Lucy Caldwell was profoundly enriching. The readings from her short stories "Mayday" and the yet unpublished "A Family Christmas" intertwined beautifully with her incisive reflections on narrating the female body, the architecture of short stories, the vital act of unveiling untold stories, subverting conventional narratives and so much more, rendering the event truly unforgettable. I was mesmerized by her voice and her way of precisely and yet sometimes so tenderly articulating and anwering complex topics as well as our personal questions; the event as a whole embodying the "quantum leap" she strives to create in her storytelling.  Mia Fiebig *** Lucy Caldwell's incredible way to cature and narrate diverse experiences of womanhood was eye-opening. Her skilful writing is based on a deep connection to humanity and illuminates the undertold, often misunderstood complexities of life. Her honest and raw answers to our questions and her dedication to the craft of writing were inspiring and provided new points of view on the seminar topics, such as motherhood, pregnancy, abortion and sexuality. Thank you for this incredible event!  Sylas Starkjohann Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/35FBB1AA-6389-436D-A4BF-7E940BE94867_1_105_c_0.jpeg Position: students Signature Image:

Deirdre Sullivan at the Gothic Horror Festival in Nijmegen Description: On Halloween, Deirdre Sullivan entered the Gothic Horror Festival stage and captured the audience with a contagious enthusiasm. She is an Irish autho who has loved Irish folklore since childhood and translated her love into her writings. Coming from someone who barely has read any gothic horror, I became more intrigued throughout her interview. It was her out loud reading of the prologue of ther novel Perfectly Preventable Deaths that captured me fully. Great comedic timing, a hint of suspense, compelling characters at first glance; I am hooked. I would like to thank Deirdre Sullivan for introducing me to the genre and that she signed my freshly bought novel. I am so excited to ravish the book and to discover her entire bibliography.  Maartje Verheijen (student American Studies) *** The interview with Deirdre Sullivan at the Gothic and Horror Festival in Nijmegen was a true highlight of the evening fo me. Her reflections on Irish folklore and her own writing were very interesting and thought-provoking. The vivid way she read from her novels still echoes in my mind, and I'm very excited to read more of her work! Joy Koopman (PhD candidate)   photo credit: Kylian Veening Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/Deirdre%20reading_small_by%20Kylian%20Veening.jpg Position: students Signature Image:

Reading by Deirdre Sullivan at the University of Siegen Description: "I really enjoyed listening to Deirdre Sullivan reading from her books and talking about what inspires her to write. It was inspiring to hear her talk about her writing and to hear with how much emotion she read from her books. She knew how to make you feel like you were right there, in her book, and as if it was her protagonist telling her own story. I really admired that and also enjoyed that she answered all of our questions. All in all, I would say that it was a great experience and I hope that I will have the opportunity to participate in another reading like this one day." Kim-Leonie Kühnle *** "I was one of the people who went to the reading by Deirdre Sullivan and my impression was very positive. Especially when Mrs. Sullivan read out of her works, I was captivated due to the emotion in her voice. I am also a fan of mystical themes like mermaids, vampires and magic in general. Not knowing much about Irish folklore before, this was an opportunity for me to learn about something entirely new." Meryem-Sude Kose *** "I think the author reading was interesting for students who study literature or are simply interested in books in general. The reading consisted of a good mixture of personal experiences as a writer, dscussions about Irish folklore, and presentations of books along with the author's thoughts and the process behind writing and publishing. It was also interesting that Deirdre presented her books in chronological order, so we got an insight into the different motivations and concepts she had at the time. It's nice that the university offers such programs, and it personally gave me new impulses." Anne Sentker   Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/IMG_2179.jpg Position: students Signature Image:

Playwright Kate Heffernan at the University of Poznań Description: "The lecture by Kate Heffernan links the creative with the practical, the public with the personal. In a very passionate and informative talk she not only introduced us to Irish culture and some of its historical hurdles but also offered a glimpse behind the literal and the metaphorical curtain of working at and for theatres and art centres in Ireland. We, as listeners, felt her dedication to freedom of expression, not for the fulfilment of the artistic ego, but for a truly intimate immersion in the dramatic and intellectual experience. Her latest play, discussed during the lecture and class, felt like a sad but poignant commentary on intergenerational covenants and conflicts; our inability to fully get to know another person, alongside the simultaneous necessity for mutual recognition." Katarzyna Bronk-Bacon, Assistant professor, Faculty of English *** "During the meeting, Kate Heffernan brilliantly discussed three instances of in-direct political (art) censorship which took place in Ireland recently. She skilfully introduced each event, presenting how the engaged sides and the public saw it, and finally what impact did it have on he Irish art scene. While leading the dialogue with the public, she also mentioned how the most tuned out voices belong to the minorities and the less politically visible. In connection to that idea, her newest play Guest Host Stranger Ghost touches on systemic mistreatment of the elderly in Dublin. The meeting made me reflect on the nature of censorship in the present day. It was also very interesting to see how the censorship effectively only made the issues more apparent and louder. Overall, I was very impressed with the discussion." Alex Blij, 3rd year BA English-Celtic Philology Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/17.jpg Position: faculty staff & students Signature Image:

Claire Kilroy reading at the 2025 AEDEI Conference Description: "To be in AEDEI for the first time was one of the best experiences at conferences I have ever had. And to be able to listen to authors read from their work was a true pleasure. Claire Kilroy is such a talented writer that it was a privilege to hear her read an extract from her last novel Soldier Sailor; I was just captivated by her vivid tone and visceral words. I was also very inspired when she shared the way she had struggled to get her creativity and writing back after the birth of her first child." Sandra Pinasco Espinosa Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/Interview%20with%20Claire%20Kilroy.jpeg Position: Signature Image:

Catherine Dunne reading at the 2025 AEDEI Conference in Huelva Description: "Maria Auxiliadora Perez Vides and Jose Carregal Romero, along with their outstandingly devoted team of volunteers, organised a seamless, insightful and wonderfully sociable AEDEI Conference in Huelva University this year. The papers were varied, encompassing aspects of philosophy, contemporary fiction - including children's fiction, a most welcome addition, as children are the next generation of readers - memoir, sociology, history and literary criticism. So many conversations were begun, and are still continuing, and so many aspects of Irishness were explored: I am still processing all that we discussed, formally and informally. Thank you so much, to the organisers, to the Irish Itinerary and to Culture Ireland, for inviting me to be part of this transformational experience." Catherine Dunne *** "Being at AEDEI Conference was like meeting with old friends and family, everyone was very kind and open to embrace newcomers. One of the highlights was meeting Catherine Dunne. I enjoyed a lot the way she shared with us insights on her writing methods, her inspiration, and her experience as a writer with the editorial world. She also shared personal memories of her beginnings as a teacher and read a truly amazing excerpt from her last work, A Good Enough Mother. Afterwards I was able to speak with her, and she displayed such a sensibility that inspired me greatly; it was a privilege to be able to meet her personally." Sandra Pinasco Espinosa *** "The 23rd AEDEI Conference: The Uses and Abuses of Irishness took place at the University of Huelva from 28th to 30th May. This conference was filled with insightful talks that highlighted the wide diversity encompassed by the field of Irish studies today. Furthermore, the conference included the participation of Irish writer Catherine Dunne as part of the EFACIS Irish Itinerary. In conversation with Prof. Auxiliadora Pérez Vides, and addressing questions from the public, Dunne discussed the impact of Ireland’s past in contemporary Irish writing, issues of translation, and personal influences on her work. She finished by reading an excerpt from her 2024 novel A Good Enough Mother, a meaningful experience that offered a more engaging approach to her writing. Thank you to the organisers for putting such a wonderful and enriching conference together." Iria Seija Pérez, University of Vigo Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/Interview%20with%20Catherine%20Dunne.jpeg Position: Signature Image:

Jan Carson at the Technical University of Liberec Description: "I would like to express my gratitude for the wonderful opportunity to immerse myself in Irish culture, history, and literature during Irish Week. It was an incredible experience to engage with Jan Carson, a talented Irish writer who generously shared her insights as a fiction author, a native of Ireland, and a passionate promoter of Irish culture around the world. Meeting her in person, listening to her readings of short stories, and taking part in her creative writing workshop were unforgettable and truly valuable experiences. I was also deeply impressed by the lecture on James Joyce delivered by Matthew Sweney, which allowed me to delve into twentieth-century Irish literature through the life and works of one of Ireland’s greatest writers. I believe this event was extremely beneficial for every student of English, as it helps us immerse ourselves in the context of the material we study and inspires us to reach new heights." Yelyzaveta Hrynchak, 3rd-year BA in English-Spanish, TUL *** "I am genuinely grateful for letting us embark on an exciting journey to explore Irish culture at TUL during the cultural week. Having had an opportunity to talk to Jan Carson and learn from her experience as both a famous writer and an Irish local provided me with valuable takeaways. It has undoubtedly improved my knowledge of literature and narration and provided an essential insight into the Irish culture. I was especially impressed by the variety of activities organised over the course of the week - from lectures on James Joyce and readings by Jan Carson herself to the masterclass on creative writing. Everyone benefited from this, especially the English department students, as no language or literature can be solely studied theoretically without being connected to the modern world and real people's experiences." Anastasia van het Bolscher Morozova, 3rd-year BA in English-Spanish, TUL *** "In her talk on Tuesday, Jan Carson brilliantly introduced the complexities of the Northern Irish literary tradition and spoke not only about its history but also about how her own works fit into the picture. As there was a big explosion of Northern Irish literature in 1998, the themes tended to be historical and included accounts of the bombings and crude violence. This focus entirely centres on the conflict and omits what it is like to exist in an active warzone. Thus, Jan Carson stressed how important she thinks writing within the conflict remains. Secondly, Carson talked about her stance on writing, stating her love for people-watching and searching for cracks between real-life stories, where the interesting things appear. She says that she is a fan of writing parables, which are ever-present in her new short story collection Quickly, While There Are Still Horses. Part of her lecture focused on language. At the end, Carson stresses the importance of the idea that language is political; as Irish continues to be in danger, it is very important to do anything possible to save it. Carson herself has Scottish roots, and that is the reason “strange words” like ween appear in her stories. She likes to keep her family’s language alive by including them. At the end, she states that she is a magical realist and notes that, in the last few years, the eerie is gaining recognition as more and more writers are joining her in writing her preferred genre." Daniela Málková, MA in English, Charles University *** "The creative writing workshop with Jan Carson was interesting even for me, a person who practically does not write, unless it was a school requirement. I really liked Ms. Carson's approach - she interspersed her engaging explanation with concrete examples, left us space for our own creativity and even invited several volunteers to read their quickly written works to the others. Personally, I felt annoyed with myself for not taking advantage of this opportunity, specifically in the segment when we worked with photos of Ms. Carson's family members. The ideas and thoughts that others shared were inspiring and I left Room 007 with a good feeling." Ondřej Svárovský, 2nd-year English-IT, TUL *** "Jan Carson's talk about literature in Northern Ireland was not only very informative but also deeply engaging. Jan introduced us to important characteristics of Northern Irish society and its changes over the past decades, but she also added a personal dimension by sharing her experience of growing up in the particular conditions of a small Northern Irish town and by talking about the literary topics which she explores in her writing. I believe that her honest sharing of her own life story and the way she was able to relate it to the larger issues of Northern Irish society made a deep impact on the students and that thanks to it they got a good understanding of the defining social issues in Northern Ireland." Dr. Anna Světlíková, Assistant Professor, Department of English, TUL Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/IMG_20250429_104403.jpg Position: Signature Image:

William Keohane at the University of Vienna Description: "You can choose to read the poems or you can choose to read my body." I am possibly paraphrasing here but this is how William Keohane began his performance, and I can't help but carry the spectre of his words in every encounter I have with performed poetry now. The way Keohane engaged his audience, guiding us into the text, left a deep, lasting impression. The combination of listening to his emphatic vocal performance while reading the projected 'boxed' text on the screen in front made us active participants. We couldn't help but immerse ourselves into the rhythm of every word, every line, every pause. As he walked through the space, reading poignant pieces on his experience with transitioning, his relationship with his mother, and more, we were suddenly transported into the scenes of each poem. That the lights had been turned off heightened the intimate encounter. It was truly an experience like no other. I am grateful to have witnessed the power of William Keohane's poems and performance! Shefali Banerji (scholar) *** William Keohane's performance was profoundly moving: the emotions in his voice, his body language, his movements through the room - it was impossible not to be touched. It was impressive to see how quickly he could switch from fear and pain at being rejected to joy at being completely and unconditionally accepted. His deeply expressive poetry and more distant, almost clinical essay "Assessments" complemented each other beautfully, lending gravity and nuance to both. His more theoretical reflections on the concept of boxes and how they shape us and our interactions were just as impactful. Overall, this evening has left me much to think about, and I will certainly reflect on it time and time again.  Annika Jungreuthmayer (student) *** Watching William Keohane's performance of "Boxing Day" was a deeply emotional and truly memorable experience. He describes the ups, downs, joys, and pains of transitioning in a bravely personal way, making palpable the everyday experiences of living in a trans body that are often omitted in political discourse. He allows audiences to catch a glimpse of the humiliating medical gatekeeping for gender-affirming care, as well as the unbridled euphoria of recognising yourself in your new name. Boxing Day is such an important work, and I'm truly glad I got to experience it.  Marie Krebs (scholar) *** William Keohane's event at the University of Vienna with his performance of Boxing Day in the focus was captivating, inspiring, and educational. The rigid uniformity of the box shape of the poems on the screen was contrasted beautifully by the change and emotion not only contained within the text but also in his three-dimensional performance of it. Keohane also talked about the struggles he faced as a trans person living in Ireland, especially regarding medical transition, offering an opportunity for cultural exchange. after the official event Keohane met every person who approached him with kindness, respect, and humble interest. All in all, it was an unforgettable experience.  Vic Schlosser (student)   (c) photo by Shefali Banerji Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/Keohane%20reading%20from%20Queering%20the%20Green_Shefali%20Banerji.jpeg Position: Signature Image:

William Keohane at Charles University Prague Description: "I wasn't sure what to expect going in. I thought it would be just another typical poetry reading, but Boxing Day was really surprising. It was intense, in a good way. The way the poems were projected on the wall while William Keohane read them made the whole thing feel immersive, like we were part of it. Some of he poems hit really hard, especially the ones about waiting and changing identity. I didn't know much about the issues around trans healthcare in Ireland before this, andthe performance made it feel very real and personal." *** "William's performance really pulled me in. The poems were all shaped like little boxes, which seemed a bit strange at first, but it actually made sense, especially thanks to William's explanation of his creative process and his dissertation afterwards. Both the performance and the choice of venue worked together as well, as they are "works in progress"." Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/20250331_190038.jpg Position: Signature Image:

Mary Costello at the University of Antwerp Description: "For someone who did not consder herself a writer for such a long time, Mary Costello writes with such insight that proves she has always been one." Laurane Daerden (student) *** "Being Anglo-Irish myself, it was an absolute pleasure to have the opportunity to attend the talk given by Mary Costello at the University of Antwerp, and to discover what motivates her to write. Her excellent interview revealed fascinating insights into her life, her writing process and her books. An inspiring evening all round!" Stephanie Hughes (teaching assistant) Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/Unknown-7.jpeg Position: students and staff Signature Image:

Mary Costello at the University of Ghent Description: "A captivating evening with Mary Costello, who shared surprising and thoughtful insights into her creative process." Wibke Schiedermann *** "The evening with Mary has re-affirmed my long-held belief that Irish literature is the best in the world." Louise Benson-James     Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/pro-l8A3KeSW.jpeg Position: students Signature Image:

Deirdre Sullivan at the University of Granada Description:   "Deirdre Sullivan crafst hauntingly lyrical narratives that blend folklore, feminism, and the uncanny, giving voice to the silenced and reshaping Irish storytelling for a new generation."  Iván Gómez Rojas ***  "Meeting Deridre Sullivan in person made me appreciate her work even more. She is a marvellous woman who is clearly passionate about her writing. She read out loud a very touching fragment from one of her books, and no one in the room could contain the emotion inspired by listening to her. It was undoubtedly one of the most special moments of the week."  Carmen Baena *** "Listening to Deirdre Sullivan was truly a life-changing experience. Her words and her closeness left everyone speechless; it was very refreshing."  Ana Mateo Vojtová *** "Deirdre Sullivan captivated the audience with her profound literary reading, seamlessly blending mythology, feminism, and poetic storytelling. Her insightful discussion illuminated the power of reimagining Irish folklore through a contemporary lens."  Daniel Casado *** "Deirdre Sullivan's literary reading was a fascinating journey through storytelling, underscoring her remarkable talent for introducing feminist perspectives into Irish myth. Her ability to captivate the audience is incredible and it also provoked thoughtful discussion, making her session an extraordinary moment of the festival."  Claudia Berti *** "Deirdre Sullivan had a hold on the room: her readings of the excerpts were invitations into the heart of her novels; with every word, and with every line she read, she pulled us deeper into the heart of the characters, making their emotions feel like our own. It was an honor to share the space with her and to witness the magic of her storytelling up close."  Ikhlass Seddati *** "I am also grateful for Deirdre Sullivan's response to my question about how folklore influences contemporary Irish identity and the role of literature in keeping these traditions vibrant. Deirdre skilfully expressed how literature acts as a dynamic bridge between the past and present, breathing new life into old stories and ensuring they remain a vital part of today's cultural dialogue. Her perspective has broadened my understanding of how literature can actively shape and sustain cultural identitites. This has sparked my academic curiosity and creative desires, motivating me to explore how I can contribute to the ongoing dialogue between Irish folklore and modernity in my future work. These insights from leading figures in Irish literature have not only enriched my learning but also solidified my resolve to explore Irish Itinerary traditions in my academic and creative journeys." Hao Zeng *** "Wow, it has been quite an experience to have the visit of two such prestigious writers. Firstly, because it allows us, as potential academics, to engage with people who exude talent and are truly inspiring. Secondly, because of the privilege of hearing, in their own voices, the very words that, when read, resonate with mine. I particulary enjoyed Deirdre's, whose expression truly captivated me in class, and having her voice guide the public reading made the talk a very special moment for me - and I am sure for everyone present. Finally, I believe the Q&A session with both writers was an incredibly enrichting experience for all. Sometimes, we are just one question and one answer away from taking the step toward something we want to, and having the chance to ask such wise authors is a real gift. Thank you, Pilar, and thanks to all the organizers for making this possible."  Mario Garcia Rodriguez Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/ea9db7eb-2e26-4765-8b17-a3b05124d30e.jpg Position: audience members Signature Image:

Eiléan Ní Chuilleanáin at the University of Granada Description:   "Eiléan Ní Chuilleanáin, with her luminous poetry, weaves history, myth, and the quiet resilience o Irish womanhood into verses that transcend time, offering readers a bridge between the sacred and the everyday life." Iván Gómez Rojas *** "Having Eiléan Ní Chuilleanáin and Deirdre Sullivan has been a very enriching experience. We were able to listen to them read their works as they brought their words into life: that was a really touching experience on a personal level, but also very enriching on an academic level, as them reading their work offered a new layer to the work we had read beforehand for class. We were able to ask our questions to them, and they were very kind to provide with very thoughtful answers which created a very enriching experience, not only because we got to know the writers better, but also because we got to understand their craft on a deeper level, and how they approach their work. This has been a unique experience that, as a student of a master's degree on literature, it has been very gratifying." Maialen Encinas *** "It has been a great honour having Eiléan Ní Chuilleanáin in our university. Given the complexity of her poetry, it was fascinating to listen to her reading some of her poems and explaining the creative processes behind them. After hearing her explanations, I could understand her poetry much better because she enlightened me to read it from a different lens."  Carmen Baena *** "Having Eiléan Ní Chuilleanáin here in Granada was a privilege hard to ever forget. Her reading and her presence were delightful."  Ana Mateo Vojtová *** "Eiléan Ní Chuilleanáin delivered a mesmerizing literary reading, showcasing her masterful use of language, history, and mythology. Her discussion offered deep insights into the layers of meaning within her poetry, leaving the audience with a renewed appreciation for her evocative and timeless work."  Daniel Casado *** "Eiléan Ní Chuilleanáin's literary reading and discusson was a truly enriching experience, offering profound understanding of the nuances of Irish poetry. Her evocative language brought her work to life, making her session deeply enjoyable and unforgettable."  Claudia Berti *** "Eiléan Ní Chuilleanáin was just as captivating, her presence illuminated the seminar, for me, it was a privilege to witness a master like herself at work. What made the experience even more special was how deeply connected she was to each poem, and the stories behind them; each excerpt she read transported us into the rich and layered world of her poetic space, making this seminar even more memorable and immersive."  Ikhlass Seddati *** "Thank you to the two Irish writers who graced our seminar. I appreciate Eiléan Ní Chuilleanáin for her dedication to writing over the years. Her expressive poetry and deep understanding of cultural foundations continue to captivate audiences. her work, rich with layers and historical depth, offers invaluable perspectives for understanding the essence of Irish identity."  Hao Zeng       Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/e446973b-20f4-48a5-978f-b1faa713fca0.jpg Position: audience members Signature Image:

Eiléan Ní Chuilleanáin at the University Pablo de Olavide, Sevilla Description:   "I really feel lucky to have been able to hear her."  *** "To sum up, this event has been very interesting given that not only has she read her poems and told us about the anecdotes behind them, but also she has taken the time to explain her experience in the world of translation."  *** "She enriched us with her poems, wisdom and experience."  *** "Thanks to the organisers at Pablo de Olavide University, we welcomed award-winning poet Eiléan Ní Chuilleanáin, who is also a renowned translator."     Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/4cb0f0be-ab2a-423e-af0c-2e861ac6cd11.jpg Position: audience members Signature Image:

Deirdre Sullivan at the University Pablo de Olavide, Sevilla Description:   "Interestingly, she focused on asking questions in her writing rather than answers so that she could organise her thoughts and have a conversation with herself."  *** "The English which is spoken in Ireland is fascinating. As an example of this, Deirdre mentioned that in standard English it is often said 'my name is x', as opposed to 'x is my name', which is said in Ireland. Because of this, she found out plenty of differences when working with UK writers." *** "Violence, feminism and breath-taking stories define her work as a writer."  Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/62edbacd-1be6-4849-b442-5f176331c042.jpg Position: audience members Signature Image:

Vukašin Nedeljković visiting Nicosia, Cyprus Description: "The event 'Reflecting Asylum' brought to light important topics relevant to the conext in which it took place. It facilitated a conversation between two artists from different backgrounds, addressing themes of displacement and the mistreatment of people on the move in Cyprus, Ireland (and beyond).  Being familiar with the Cypriot situation through my research, I was impressed by the longstanding dedication Efi Savvides has shown in her work in Richmond Village. Her engagement with the lives of people whose experiences have been shaped by the history of a place that has changed so much is impressive. Her documentation of the material practices and personal stories of those living in the village showed a deep commitment to capturing the evolving realities of that territory.  I was deeply moved by the work of Vukašin Nedeljković. His reflections on the liminal spaces deliverately created by 'Fortress Europe' shows a visual history of injustices. These spaces highlight a situation that continues to deteriorate for people seeking for a better life. His considerations on the ethics and postionality of working with themes of displacement resonated strongly with me.  I left the event convinced of the continued need to denounce injustices. Both cases highlight the importance of critically addressing bordering practices, which, far from simplifying realities, serve as manifestations of deeply rooted historical, social, and politicia issues." Ana Ricchiardi *** "I found the talks very moving and thought-provoking. it was surprising to realize how we can share the same emotions - feeling rejected, being identified as a threat to a community, or being treated as "others" - despite having vastly different experiences, whether due to our nationalities, passports, skin colors, and so forth.  I have never been a refugee, but as an immigrant I can tell you I have been treated by "authorities" as if I were a threat to their borders. It saddens me deeply that, even in 2025, people discuss human rights in forums like the United Nations, yet in pracitce, equality remains elusive. As the saying goes, all humans are equal, but some are more equal than others.  Will we ever truly be equal?"  Elaheh Ghasemi Dehcheshmeh *** "Vukašin Nedeljković visited the University of Cyprus, Department of English Studies, and presented work relevant to their project, Asylum Archive. In addition, they discussed their recent visit to Israel, their work with Palestinian refugees, and their brief visit to Cyprus, where they encountered Cypriot artists and activists and learned about their experiences with refugees ariving in Cyprus in recent years. They spoke in particular about their own experience as an asylum seeker accommodated in Ireland's Direct Provision System, highlighting the difficulties they and other asylum seekers encountered during their stay. They showed us photographic material from various Direct Provision housing facilities in Ireland and explained their artistic choice to exclude the faces of asylum seekers from the photos. Their presentation at the University of Cyprus was personal, authentic, and very touching, as the audience genuinely felt their struggles and trauma, as well as their determination to overcome their difficulties. Their visit to Cyprus was of great importance as they raised awareness about the issue of asylum seekers, which is highly relevant to the Eastern Mediterranean in general and Cyprus in particular. They provided a concrete and honest picture of the challenges asylum seekers face and emphasized the urgency of establishing a support system to protect these vulnerable individuals. They offered a humanistic framework for approaching this issue, free from prejudice, cheap slogans, and ignorance. Overall, their visit was significant, and I wish Vukašin Nedeljković well and hope they continue their brilliant work."  Tziovanis Georgakis *** "Vukašin's talk about refugees and migrants in the Irish context made me question my sensitivity to the issue and the prejudiced attitudes to which I am constantly exposed. Thanks to this talk, I once again realized the importance of striving for the spread of peace, fraternity, democracy, and the equal sharing of economic resources in the whole world. Throught their photographs, I observed that the philosophical depth of art can converge with superior aestheticism by assimilating individual and social experiences."  Ahmet Yikik Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/IMG_1489.jpg Position: audience members Signature Image:

Jan Carson's reading in Wuppertal Description: "I really enjoyed the evening with Jan Carson at Café SWANE and am so grateful she took the time to answer all our questions. I completely agree with her observation that the event almost felt like a stand-up comedy show at first, her humor made even the heavier topics engaging and entertaining. One aspect I found particularly fascinating was how her personal life, especially her childhood, has influenced and continues to shape her writing. After listening to Carson, I’ve gained a new perspective on her works. It felt as though I got a glimpse into her childhood in Northern Ireland." Alexandra Franken *** "I thoroughly enjoyed the reading by Jan Carson last week and am grateful that she took the time to visit Wuppertal. Her humour and quick wit made the event both entertaining and insightful. Listening to her speak also helped put everything we have learned about her books into a richer perspective, adding layers to my understanding of her work. One aspect I found particularly fascinating was her inclusion of religious themes in her writing. Many of her characters possess strong religious beliefs, and Carson suggested that the Bible could be viewed as a form of magic realism to some extent. This perspective really resonated with me, as I had previously wondered how religion interacts with the genre of magic realism." Katharina Ehlen Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/Wuppertal_5292%20audience%20left.jpg Position: students Signature Image:

Jan Carson visiting the University of Tübingen Description: "It was a thoroughly amazing experience to be able to meet, listen and talk to Jan Carson! As our seminar is based on her works and Jan Carson was very approachable – even encouraging difficult questions herself – it proved extremely useful meeting her. On top of that, Jan Carson went far beyond the expected by taking time for anyone who wanted to have a little chat." Frederic Heselschwerdt *** "For literature students, it is rare to meet the author of the works we study. Discussing the themes in her writing and the impact of the Troubles on her and Irish literature was both eye-opening and inspiring. Her open manner and willingness to address all questions, even the difficult ones, underscored the importance of connections between students and authors. Last but not least, learning about the fascinating and often amusing backgrounds of certain characters in her works of magical realism added a memorable touch to the experience." Leon Juranovic *** "On the 9th of January Jan Carson blessed the early 8am class with her presence. First she read from her recent short story collection Quickly, while they still have horses, which was an amazing start for the day itself. The insight we gained from her being in the room herself was immensely striking: We not only learned about political aspecta of her work, but also more of her own experiences that shape the stories This was an amazing experience." Laura Schmidt Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/Jan%20Carson_T%C3%BCbingen_Alte%20Aula%20TU%CC%88_9%20Jan%2025_2.jpg Position: students Signature Image:

Jan Carson at the University of Stuttgart Description:   "Having read some of Jan Carson’s short stories, I was eager to hear her speak. What struck me most about Jan was her incredible wit and clarity. She knows exactly the points she wants to make and articulates them with precision. Jan’s presence is magnetic. She is witty, down-to-earth, and engaging, making it easy to listen to and connect with her. Despite her brilliance, she is humble, sharing that her writing didn’t come naturally. Her reading was enchanting. The musicality of her writing came through in her voice, tone, and accent, which were full of personality. Her stories are meticulously crafted, richly contextualized yet deliberately open-ended, and inviting readers to uncover the meaning behind them themselves. Jan’s focus on Northern Ireland is powerful. She shed light on “untold stories” from older generations and the Troubles’ lingering shadows. Her insights into the limitations publishers placed on Northern Irish writers (demanding either silence on the Troubles or reductive depictions) were eye-opening. In one of her short stories, a character reflects on how “the Troubles are over,” yet so much remains unsaid—a sentiment Jan echoed when she remarked, “Other people got to decide our history.” Her talk was inspiring. I left with a newfound appreciation for Ireland, its stories, and a deeper respect for storytelling. Jan Carson’s writing is thoughtful and impactful, and I would absolutely recommend any event featuring her." Reem Chehab *** "Having the opportunity to listen to Jan Carson talking about her creative process, her delicate, scintillating, yet profound reconciliation with intricate conservative history of Northern Ireland and her manifold affection for the depths of language was an experience I will always cherish."  Merve Munz Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/JanCarson_8Jan_Stuttgart.png Position: students Signature Image:

Caitriona Lally visiting Cluj and Sibiu in Romania Description: "As students of Irish literature, we rarely got the chance to meet (not to mention talk to) authors whose works we were studying. It was an incredible opportunity to hear Caitriona Lally talk about herself, about her interests and quirky obsessions with maps and miniatures and with the strange connections and coincidences that permeate our lives but usually go unnoticed, as well as about the highs and lows of the writing and publishing process. Her honesty and openness to talk on these matters and answer all questions extensively showed me once again how stimulating it can be to read books together with teir authors and enriched my previous reading of her works. It was also great to hear a few fragments from the debut novel Eggshells in their author's reading and it was fascinating to be able to get first-hand access to the inner workings of the author's mind and gift for attention. Thanks to how the workshop was organized, Caitriona Lally shed new light on many little, almost magical, things around all of us at the workshop and in Cluj-Napoca." Ada Beleută *** "Attending Caitriona Lally's talk during the Irish Studies M.A. Workshop at UBB was an inspiring and thought-provoking experience. Lally shared her creative journey with an openness that left a lasting impression, detailing her process of writing her two published novels. Caitriona spoke with such honesty and humour about her journey as a writer, sharing how personal quirks - like her love of lists, maps, and sweets - shaped the unique worlds of Eggshells and Wunderland.  Lally's honesty aobut the hardships of getting published was both sobering and motivating. She did not shy away from sharing the challenges she faced, providing invaluable insight into the persistence and vulnerability required in the literary world. her candid reflections made the successes of her unique, offbeat characters all the more poignant, revealing how much of herself she poured into their creation. What struck me most was Lally's ability to bridge the personal and the universal. Her anecdotes about how her quirks and interests found their way into her characters' lives highlighted the authenticity that makes her work so engaging. This talk was not just for writers but for anyone curious about the relationship between personal identity and creative expression. Caitriona Lally's wit, humility, and passion for storytelling shone throughout the event, leaving me inspired to think more deeply about how our individual obsessions can fuel meaningful, relatable art."  Paul Mihai Parshiv *** "Caitriona Lally's lecture and reading really inspired me. Her words were at once uplifting and vulnerable, funny and insightful, intellectually stimulating yet free of any pretentiousness. Above all, I was struck by her humanity and radical honesty.  It was deeply refreshing to hear one of today's foremost writers of experimental fiction speak so openly about feelings that are more universal than we'd first believe. In her uniqueness, she finds things that unite us: the thrill of doing fulfilling work, the joy of receivin validation and the financial difficulties that may come with sticking to one's vision. Yet, even the most elementary idiosyncracies get their due attention, like the fascination with minitatures or buying bruised fruit at the supermarket out of a feeling of empathy.  Still, the true joy comes from how Mrs. Lally articulates and structures all of these themes. Like most great artists, she helps us see the life-affirming beauty of the everyday, and she does this wile helping us broaden our capacity for empathy and compassion.  That's why this speech made me very enthusiastic to read Caitriona Lally's books. It was a true privilege to have attended this event and I am grateful to everyone who made it happen."  Andrei Popa *** "I left the conference room with a sense of gratitude for the chain of events that brought Caitriona Lally to Cluj-Napoca. The close-knit community of the Irish Studies departement welcomed a writer of tiny worlds in many ways resembling the small town where she landed. Her reading of Eggshells conjured up the atmosphere of streets and buildings that, despite being located at the opposite corner of Europe, afforded Vivian, a curious protagonist, to map a place strikingly similar to our town. The sheer warmth and the vulnerability transpiring in every word of her speech spoke to my readiness to acknowledge the commonality of those experiences that we generally consider minor and not worthy of being committed to paper. It reminded me of our common necessity to retreat to "thin places" and find an order in the hoard of valuables polished by the passing of time, to draw lists and indulge in reading them out loud. Her sentences harkened back to the quiet intricacies of her novels, making me wonder if the merging of fiction and obiter dicta, of narrator and writer can ever be succesfully avoided. By sticking to the immediate realities informing her novels, Caitriona Lally conveyed a message of a sobering effect for the reviewers who try to superimpose labels on the pure materiality of her ficiton and stood out for her ability to tell things as they are, without multiplying the layers of meaning that could suffocate the bewitching simplicity of her writing."  Ștefania Burlică *** "It was a privilege to welcome Caitriona Lally to Sibiu for a captivating discussion of her second novel, Wunderland. The room was full of studens, accompanied by a few professors from Lucian Blaga University and from Babes-Bolyai University. Lally read parts of two chapters from her latest book, one chapter narrated from Roy's perspective and one from Gert's. the reading was followed by a dialogue between Lally and the moderator, which referred to various aspects of the former's work and revealed the depth of her characters, the playfulness of her style and her fascination with language. She then answered questions from the floor. Lally shared the inspiration behind her work and her perspective on storytelling along with details pertaining to her personal and professional life. her presence in Sibiu will resonate with us for a long time and we're looking forward to future visits and more literary exchanges. We're also looking forward to the adaptation of her first novel, for which she has finished writing the film script and to the publication of her third book."  Irish Rusu *** "Fascinating event! I've been living, mesmerized and addicted, in Caitriona Lally's novels for the past couple of weeks, and meeting the mastermind behind them was more than rewarding. And I discovered a brilliance wrapped in disarming honesty and inspiring humbleness.  Her gleaming smile sets the tone of the event. The short summary of her activity and achievements is received by her with modesty, by us with awe. She then reads two passages from Wunderland, one for each sibling, main characters. A mini-portal to the world of the novel is thus created. Caitriona Lally talks about being inspired rather by powerful characters than by cobweb-plots. While questions rise, layers are peeled off, from the motivation behind writing, to what accelerates or slows the process, from the presuure a first novel's success can instill in writing another, to the whirl of motherhood that sucks one's pen in and reshapes it to unknown outcomes. A coat of subtle humour brings us all ino a warm familiarity. The author reveals a screenplay to Eggshells in the making, and a newly finished third book, a memoir on writing Wunderland, which I am ancious to discover.  In the room crowded with people of various ages, students and educators, there was a shared curiosity quenched only to that ideal degree that makes one eagerly wait for the next episode."  Alina Artenie Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/Cluj%204_rotated.jpg Position: students Signature Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/Sibiu%208_smaller.JPEG

Sheila Armstrong and Jan Carson at the Tartalo, Vitoria-Gasteiz Description:   "Tartalo: II Week of the Fantastic in the Arts, celebrated in Vitoria (Spain) from 4 November to 10 November, was enriched by the particpation of Sheila Armstrong and Jan Carson. They were the protagonists of the Irish Itinerary devised by EFACIS in this week of artistic and academic exploration, first as members of a round table chaired by Asier Altuna, and as keynote speakers on the following da.  The first event was inroduced by a brief show of traditional Irish music and by the authors' readings of fragments of their work, in a celebration of the Irish sound and imagination - interestingly, it was revealed during the round table discussion that Carson and Armstrong have very different approaches to voices, both in their work and as part of their creative process. The glimpses into their artistic vision, their identity and the evolution of their work were an inspiring close to the proceedings for the day.  On the following day, those of us who had the chance to attend all the Irish Itinerary events found that the auhtors' key note speeches provided an expansion on some of the most interesting ideas brought up in he round table discussion. Humour, fantasy and memory were blended in the keynote intervention by Jan Carson, which delved into the complexitites of the Northern Irish identity and its depiction, as well as its reception. Sheila Armstrong's all-too-short talk went from a riveting presentation on the Dúchas, the School's Collection that gathered folklore manifestations in the 1930s, to a consideration of the so-called 'thin places', locations of unusual contact between the real and the Numinous, and concluded with Armstrong's incisive analysis of popular perception of Irish folklore and imagination. The lively discussions that followed made it clear that the topics she presented merit further research. Again on this second day, Carson and Armstrong proved to be inspirational for lay and scholarly audiences alike, and helped to make of the EFACIS Irish Itinerary one of the highlights of the week." Beatriz Sánchez - English Teacher at EOI (Official School of Languages, Madrid) *** "Jan Carson and Sheila Armstrong's participation at Tartalo in November 2024 manly comprised two parts.  On Thursday, there was a read-aloud of both authors; Carson recited an amusing fragment of one of the short stories comprised in Quickly, While They Still Have Horses; while Armstrong read an excerpt of her debut collection How to Gut a Fish. After the read-aloud of both authors, a round table followed with reflections on their influences and contexts of writing as well as their work as artist writers: their upbringing, their literary influences, their relationships with their editors, ad their creative processes as such. The event included translation and interpretation to make sure that attendants could follow the discussion, whether it was in English or in Spanish.  The following day, Jan Carson's lecture versed on 'Becoming Various: Untangling the Knots of Northern Identity', in which she reflected again on her background as an artist in Northern Irelan, and how this has found a way in her writings through magic realism.  On her part, Sheila Armstrong talked about 'Hungry Grass and Thin Places', referring to Irish and other international myths and folklore and how it has transcended literature, especially how this 'Irishness' is viewed throughout the Western World (mainly the United States pop culture).  The reflections and contributions of both authors have been powerful and enriching in the context of the II Week of the Fantastic in the Arts and have strenghtened the work that EFACIS (the European Federation of Associations and Centres of Irish Studies) and Eusk-Cara promote by bringing together and capturing the essence of Irish culture (both from 'the North' and the Republic), and how it transcends their Literature."  Isabel Matilde Barrios (Lecturer of English at the International University of La Rioja) *** "I think it's really inspiring because hearing these people talking about the process of writing a book - all the things they've experienced about writing a book - I think it's really inspiring and motivating, especially their way of creating art. Very interesting." Andere Morillo (last year student of English Studies at the University of the Basque Country) *** "It was a pleasure to hear them both. I really enjoyed listening to them both reading from their books. I really, really enjoyed it. I personally really liked the Irish accent. so being able to hear that from two Irish writers was really nice." Lydia (last year student of English Studies at the University of the Basque Country)       Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/20241107_201255.jpg Position: audience members Signature Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/photo%20Jan%20Carson_smaller.JPG

Naoise Dolan visits the University of La Rioja and the Librería Santos Ochoa Description:   "It was a great pleasure meeting Irish author Naoise Dolan. Her reading and interview at the University of La Rioja with Professor Melania Terrazas Gallego was truly enlightening. It was fascinating hearing Naoise talk about her beliefs and views regarding the current situation in the world. she engaged the audience with warmth and authenticity sharing the behind the scenes of her creative process and writing experience. Overall, it was an utterly unforgettable and inspiring experience that left us wanting to delve deeper into her work."  Marina Tamayo Campins       Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/465186034_957958966369145_4756161953517645346_n.jpg Position: audience member Signature Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/Naoise%20Dolan_smaller%20picture.jpg

Mary Costello at the 2024 AEDEI Conference Description: "It was fascinating to hear Costello talking about her work and all that is behind her stories. I am very pleased to have had the chance to see and hear in real life her dark and meaningful words." Noelia Adán Angullo *** "Mary Costello's session at AEDEI 2024 was incredibly thought-provoking as she discussed the major themes and inspiration behind her works, as well as the ethical considerations that are so prevalent, especially, in her latest short story collection Barcelona, from which she delighted us with a reading. It was a pleasure to receive her in Alcalá."  Marta Martín Amor *** "I loved Mary Costello's reading. I had already read two books by her and I left the reading feeling like I could not wait to read her other two. She has an outstanding sensibility, there is something vivid and very human in her writing and it was a privilege to be able to hear them read by her own voice."  Laura Rodríguez Diaz   Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/441995811_1382554382443474_2222652522494306728_n.jpg Position: Signature Image:

Lucy Caldwell at the 2024 AEDEI Conference Description: "It was such a pleasure to have the opportunity to listen to such a talented author, and learning about her writing process and her inspirations was so interesting. I also enjoyed a lot her reading of some of the fragments of her writings, her words felt magically comforting." Noelia Adán Angullo *** "It was an absolute delight to listen to Lucy Caldwell at AEDEI 2024. Not only is she a brilliant and sensitive author, but also a magnificent speaker: the audience was captivated as she read extracts from her work, answered questions, and talked about the care she employs in her writing, particularly, in the crafting of her short stories. a truly inspiring session and a truly inspiring woman."  Marta Martín Amor *** "I'm very glad I got to attend Lucy Caldwell's reading. Before I had only ever read a short story by her, but I left the reading feeling incredibly inspired by her writing and I cannot wait to get my hands on her new book Openings, from which she read an incredible passage, her writing is very human and visceral, it was almost hypnotic."  Laura Rodríguez Díaz Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/AEDEI%206.JPG Position: Signature Image:

Eiléan Ní Chuilleanáin at the University of Vienna Description:   “It was a pleasure to attend Eiléan Ní Chuilleanáin's poetry reading and be taken on a journey through the poet's works as she read poems from different stages in her creative career. The vivid imagery of her writings made the words come alive and created an enchanting atmosphere. It was also a special experience to hear a poem in Irish and witness the power and magic of poetry in a language that I didn't understand.”  Lena Fend *** “Ní Chuilleanáin's poetry reading was truly inspiring particularly when she translated one of her Irish poems to English. It really showed the power of exploring different universal concerns and emotions in different languages.”  Tracy Oghogho Uwadiae *** "I am very glad I took the opportunity to attend this poetry reading. I gained some exciting new inspiration for my own writing, and Eiléan Ní Chuilleanáin gained a new fan. The images she paints with her poems are incredibly vivid. She lets the reader (or, in this case, the listener) experience scenes from other people’s lives for just a few seconds – she offers a glimpse into their situations and emotions, sometimes beautiful, sometimes harrowing. It felt as if I was right there, watching the sunset on an Italian hotel terrace, or listening to the tapping of a girl’s fingers on the tablecloth, as she practices her piano-less concerto. The poems also included several, delightful mentions of cats, which convinced me to immediately buy The Map of the World." Stefanie Haszler Photo by Gizem Dogrul. Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/IMG_0995.JPG Position: students Signature Image:

Eiléan Ní Chuilleanáin reading at Charles University Prague Description:   "Unforgettable reading of one of the most witty, energetic, and powerful poets I have had the chance to see and hear in real life. Her poetry conjures up a smile on your face and sends you wandering through a magical world of her moving imagination." Michal Otáhal *** "Seeing Eiléan Ní Chuilleanáin and hearing her poetry actually speak in her voice was an unforgettable experience. Ní Chuilleanáin is an excellent speaker and it added an extra dimension to the poems. I also loved the background stories she provided. The poem in Irish with an impromptu translation on the spot was poetry at its best. Thank you for a remarkable evening, I sincerely hope for another one in the future."  Lenka Liebichová     Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/IMG-20240422-WA0003.jpg Position: students Signature Image:

Wendy Erskine at book shop Paard van Troje in Gent Description: “Listening to Wendy Erskine during the Irish Itinerary in Ghent has been such a pleasure. Her wit and honesty have charmed us and lead us through the processes of conceiving and writing characters in short stories. Absolutely brilliant!” Simona Adinolfi (PhD student) photos by Sid Gulinck Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/DSC_0021.JPG Position: Signature Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/DSC_0033_smaller.JPG

Wendy Erskine at the Irish College Leuven Description: “It was an immense pleasure to have the opportunity to meet and listen to such a talented and promising author. Wendy Erskine was very affable and energetic, and  the event particularly useful not only to gain new insights into texts, but also to get to know the person behind the opera: her habits, experiences and personal conception of short stories’ writing.” Pietro Luigi Facchini (student) “The way in which Wendy Erskine openly talked about her writing process was very inspiring. Equally interesting was hearing her talk about the stories we had read for class.” Eva Willems (student) Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/Wendy%20Erskine%20in%20L%2025.03.24.jpg Position: student Signature Image:

Dermot Bolger at the University of Alcalá Description: “Dermot Bolger exceeded all expectations. Engaging in direct dialogue with him provided a captivating insight into his multifaceted world of plays, novels, poems, and radio work. His reflection on writing stories as a means of understanding the world struck a chord with me profoundly.” Zhao Wu *** "The literary reading and discussion with Dermot Bolger was an inspiring event that brought us the opportunity of meeting him personally and not just as an author. He was genuinely open to discuss his work with us. I really enjoyed his visit!" Esther Fernández Arredondo *** “I really enjoyed the literary reading by Dermot Bolger. His masterful storytelling brought to life the intricate layers of his characters and Irish society, and his advice for young writers was truly enlightening”. Xingyanli *** “I was hughly impressed with Dermot Bolger’s plenary in the Irish Week. He has every quality I think a perfect writer should have: decent, humorous, imaginative, both rational and emotional. His words inspired me that I should be brave to pursue what I yearn for. I benefited a lot from his public interview, which gave me a deeper understanding of writers.” Jingxuan Ren *** “I really enjoyed Emilie Pine and Dermot Bolger's visits to the Irish Week because it was enlightening to hear them talk about the work we had read on the MA subject imparted by Prof. Villar Argáiz. We had the opportunity to learn more about their experiences on writing and they even gave us advice on how to start writing. The thing that shocked me the most was when Dermot Bolger mentioned that he did not start writing fiction, but poetry; from there, he began to expand the narrative and the initial stories turned into short stories. On the other hand, with Emilie Pine, we could see a personal growth from the time when she wrote her book Notes to Self to the present day. She also talked about how this has positively influenced the relationship with her own students as a lecturer in Ireland and how she rewrites her essays with her current mindset.” Juan Molina López Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/18983299-a1d4-4047-ba25-362cf1447eba.jpg Position: students Signature Image:

Emilie Pine at the University of Granada Description: “Emilie Pine's warmth and openness left a lasting impression on me. Her willingness to share her personal journey, real emotions, and inner conflicts was truly inspiring and relatable. I was particularly struck by her insight into bridging reality and expressing the non-fictional core with fiction”. Zhao Wu *** “Emilie Pine has touched us, at mind and heart. Her words are witty; her voice, brave; her story, as inspiring as her writings.” Daniel Lozano Medina *** "The session with Emilie Pine was a very special and inspiring event. Her passion, and her gift to transmit emotions, inspired me personally. I have read her two works, Notes to Self and Ruth and Pen, and I have to say that I enjoyed them really much. It was a magnificent experience!" Esther Fernández Arredondo *** "Emily Pine’s plenary lecture at the Irish Seminar was truly an extension of her autobiographical book Notes to Self, fully moving and open-hearted. Emily is such an inspiring woman. She kindly answered our questions, and we learnt a lot about the whole process of writing and publishing Notes to Self and its aftermath. We are so grateful that she got to talk with us about the events in the book. Further, she took time to converse with each one of us one by one and sign our books; she also attended to other sessions of the seminar." María Pimentel Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/524af012-cc00-43d1-9716-a5665b226bdf.jpg Position: students Signature Image:

Emilie Pine visiting Almería and Granada Description: "It was such a pleasure to be invited to read my work and meet with students in Almeria and Granada. When I began writing, I could not imagine that I would have opportunities like these, to spend time with students in Spain who have read what I've written and who are so passionate about learning about Irish literature. It has given me so much, and I hope that the students have felt as inspired as me! It is also such a special way of visiting a place, and it is an honour to be hosted by academics with such a deep knowledge of Irish writing." Emilie Pine Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/b6952316-01f2-41ca-b959-d78a41f87a10.jpg Position: writer Signature Image:

Dermot Bolger visiting Alcalá and Granada Description: "When I spent the first months of strict Covid Lockdown gazing out at a deserted Dublin street, while going back over short stories published or broadcast during the previous three decades, to revise the best of them and finally publish a debut collection of short stories, I often wondered, in those strange times, who, if anyone, would eventually read them. This meant that it was a huge pleasure and privilege, in 2024, to visit universities in Alcalá and Granada and find the students of Marisol Morales-Ladrón and of Pilar Villar Argáiz so eager to engage with these phantoms of my imagination, plying me with really insightful questions about my characters and about Irish writing in general. The professors involved could not have been more hospitable or the students any more familiar with the work that they had studied in advance. Writing, by its nature, is an isolated business and having sent these stories out into the world, it was wondrous to meet them again in this context where a new generation of students were so immersed in grappling with the themes in my work. Hopefully I imparted some knowledge about Ireland and Irish writing in these two packed question and answer sessions, and, for my own part, I came away with a deeper knowledge of Spain. My thanks to everyone involved in the two universities, and to Sien Deltour and everyone in EFACIS for making this fascinating trip possible." Dermot Bolger Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/d5f1306a-776f-424c-99e2-c337eb33ff07.jpg Position: writer Signature Image:

Dermot Bolger visiting the University of Alcalá, Madrid Description: "Being able to interact with the author allows one the opportunity to discover part of the process behind his writing. Dermot Bolger is a clever and humorous writer who is conscious of how fast reality can be altered. To him, being an author does not have the aim of achieving fame, but finding a mechanism to answer questions regarding life." Carlota Alvaro *** "Dermot Bolger talked about his journey as a poet. He found out his passion in primary school, they were reading a poem in class and he felt the spark light up. He described it in a lovely way saying that the world seemed black and white but poetry made it turn to color. I think this was the best part of the meeting, getting to see and feel the love for what he does and see the human behind the incredible works he published. He shared with us his insecurities as much as he showed his talent. As expressed, it was an amazing experience to meet such a phenomenal writer." Marina Vanesa Anastasiu *** "It was a special and inspiring event where I learnt a lot and made me think about how writers are often thought to be out of our reach as “normal” people but the truth is inspiration can be used by anyone anywhere they want. We just have to stay focused and find a way to express those thoughts, emotions and objectives." Damian Bucovician Bandula *** "I thoroughly enjoyed Bolger´s speech for its insightful exploration of various literary themes and personal anecdotes. Additionally, Bolger´s ability to engage the audience with captivating storytelling left a lasting impression. Overall, it was a truly inspiring and thought-provoking experience that reaffirmed my passion for literature." Jimena Fernández Hernández *** "Overall, the colloquium provided a captivating glimpse into Bolger's literary journey and his enduring impact on the world of letters." Eva Presa *** "Having Dermot Bolger talking to us with such a familiarity has been a magnificent experience. Not only for the fact that we had the chance to meet a writer as special as him, but because I’ve learnt in the most sensitive and virtuous way with him about the things that professors teach us as theory." Marta Candela Zarabozo Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/ca97923e-1536-48d3-9bdc-f9456afd5430.JPG Position: students Signature Image:

Jan Carson at the University of Kiel Description: "Jan Carson's reading was truly impressive and impactful and I gained profound insights into someone who lived through the troubles. Her ability to use writing as a coping mechanism, transforming negativity into something impactful, is truly inspiring. I also think her writing style is very captivating  (I will definitely buy The Fire Starters :))." "Jan Carson´s speaking and reading was very inspiring. Especially her transformation from a very segregated way of life into an inclusive one. She shared many personal experiences, and we were able to have some deep insights into her life. I´m thankful for that. In my opinion her work has a great value for our society." "I think that the session with Jan Carson was very interesting and insightful. Not only were her books well-written, but she also shared her personal experience and upbringing in the Troubles in an inspiring and impactful way." "Jan Carson's reading was truly impressive and it was interesting and very touching to learn about the experiences of someone who has experienced the Troubles. I also liked the parts she read from her books (especially the part from Quickly, while they still have horses) and I think that her writing style is very captivating." "Jan Carson's reading was incredible; she really knows how to grab your attention. At first, The Fire Starters didn't click with me, but once she shared the inspiration behind it, using Greek myths to talk about the Troubles, I was hooked and eager to read more." "I enjoyed the session very much. Hearing her own experiences, especially regarding the time after the Good Friday agreement helped give me a whole new perspective. Two points that stood out for me the most were hearing reports about modern society in northern Ireland, highlighting the state of todays schools (segregation), as well as hearing about the term ceasefire babies and its meaning." Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/IMG_7855%5B1%5D.JPG Position: MA students Signature Image:

Jan Carson at the Carl-von-Ossietzky-Buchhandlung in Flensburg Description:   “Hearing Jan Carson read from her books was an absolute joy – the humour and insight that she shares with the audience and readers was a treasure. The insight into the different perspectives allows us to gain a glimpse into lives and ways that are not often visible to the wider community. Defining otherness and sharing otherness is so important and Jan does it gracefully. Bringing to life the challenges, fears and placing it geographically in a reality of perspectives is of utmost importance for the developing of togetherness in different communities globally” Marita McGrory *** “I enjoyed Jan Carson’s reading a lot! It was an interesting take on what defines one's personality and how one's experiences form our perception as well as our experiences of the world. Her lovely accent was a nice bonus!” Sophie Costanza Bleuel *** “Jan Carson’s reading was, like her texts, very funny and very serious at the same time. She read extracts from short stories in a collection that is to be published later this year (Quickly While They Still Have Horses), as well as from her novel The Fire Starters and from a previous short story collection. She also shared details of her own experience of growing up during the Troubles and about their ongoing political and cultural legacy. Her answers to audience questions on her writing process and on the current political situation were extremely thoughtful and interesting – and also hopeful with regard to the potential art has to make it possible to hear the other side’s stories. This has been a wonderful reading!” Rebekka Rohleder *** “The reading with Northern Irish author Jan Carson at the Carl-von-Ossietzky-Buchhandlung in Flensburg, organized by the EUF Centre for Irish Studies to celebrate St Brigid’s Day and James Joyce’s Birthday, was a captivating and insightful experience. Carson’s animated readings, accompanied by her distinctive Northern Irish accent, brought a liveliness to the short stories that allowed me to actively envision the story settings. Drawing parallels with Joyce’s Dubliners, she highlighted their shared focus on religious tension and political concerns, particularly from a female perspective, which was really enlightening. Carson shared insights into her writing process, revealing that she writes short stories for each character before starting the novel to gain a deeper understanding of the featured characters. Her emphasis on the role of art, especially movies, as a coping mechanism resonated with me. Carson generously answered questions and the evening ended with an author signing session. Coupled with the well-planned structure and themes of the event, this made the reading truly memorable.” Jule Matzen *** "What a delight it was to attend Jan Carson’s reading at the atmospheric Carl-von-Ossietzky bookstore in Flensburg. Listening to her interweave short readings with personal reflections against the backdrop of Northern Ireland's evolving political and cultural landscape, I was struck by her talent as both a speaker and a writer. At one point in the reading, she talked about humor as an act of hospitality and we also saw something of this during the reading. Book readings are not always this fresh and inspiring, but Ms. Carson’s approachability and humor seem to open a lot of doors with her audience, putting everyone at ease. It made for a lively evening and also invited deeper reflection on some of the less palatable issues she addresses in her work, like cultural insularity, violence, and generational trauma. It is a tribute to Ms. Carson that she managed to induce such reflection in a way that was both inspiring and entertaining. Many thanks to Michelle Witen of the EUF Centre for Irish Studies for organizing this truly wonderful event!"  Laura Cuniff Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/IMG_6356.jpeg Position: audience members Signature Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/DSC_0309_smaller.JPG

Jan Carson at the University of Hamburg Description: "It was a pleasure to meet Jan Carson in the last session of our university seminar on hotels in literature. I was impressed by how charismatically and casually Carson engaged with our group. After briefly introducing herself to us, she read a variety of excerpts from her yet unpublished collection of short stories called No Vacancy. While Carson presented her literary hotels with a mixture of openness, humor, and personal anecdotes, the following Q&A session on hotels and Carson’s work as an author perfectly completed our conversation with her. Personally, I am very grateful for the time, honesty, and dedication Carson invested in our seminar. She not only answered all of our questions but also offered us the opportunity to speak with her individually after the event. Thank you again, Jan Carson, for this lovely time with you, and I cannot wait to read No Vacancy once it is published.” Kevin Christopher Wolf, MA student   “I really enjoyed Jan Carson’s reading at the University of Hamburg. Jan’s stories about hotels were fascinating and demonstrated her exceptional talent to see the profound in the seemingly mundane. I also appreciated that she gave us a genuine insight into her writing process. Thanks for an inspiring event!” Alina Arslan, BA student   “As a fan of Jan Carson’s writing, I was delighted to get a ‘sneak preview’ of her forthcoming collection of microfiction. After the reading, Jan answered students’ questions with great warmth and wit. This was a wonderful opportunity for Universität Hamburg students to gain insights into the work of one of Northern Ireland’s most exciting writers.” Sinéad Crowe, lecturer Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/IMG_7495.JPG Position: students and lecturer Signature Image:

Helen Cullen at the University of Stuttgart Description: "The creative writing workshop by Helen Cullen was a truly exciting experience. I'm still surprised when I think about how much I learned in such a short span of time. The writing exercises were a lot more fun and a lot less intimidating than I had feared at first, and her guidance throught the writing process has inspired me to continue with my own work. Additionally, it was simply a delight to hear about Helen Cullen's experience as an accomplished writer herself." Lauryn Hölzel (first-year student)   "Helen cullen was an enrichment of our workshop together with the Hölderlin-Gymnasium at the University of Stuttgart. Not only did she help the students in grasping the process and the importance of editing their own literary works, but she also guided the students through presenting their own works orally and finding their poetic tone." Patricia Scheyda (Master student) Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/Helen_in_Action_smaller.JPG Position: students Signature Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/Helen_Planning_smaller.JPG

Helen Cullen at the University of Siegen Description:   “I really enjoyed Helen's description of motherhood in Ireland. How until today the Irish constitution differs between man and women and patriarchy reveals itself in the system's core. Helen explained how the relationship between Irish mothers and their children creates a lot of struggles on how to surpass the system's gender roles. I very much enjoyed the option to ask questions. Helen's answer to my question, whether she introduced a strict writing routine into her everyday life, was very insightful for people who write themselves. In the end I was very impressed with Helen's work and ability to present it and glad I joined the reading.” “Helen Cullen is an author I hadn't heard much about before her reading. Overall, I can say that I left her reading very inspired. I was most interested in her personal anecdotes of how she shapes her journey as an Irish author. It is always interesting to get to know the people behind the works. I could really relate to the themes Helen Cullen deals with in her two novels and bought her latest novel straight after the reading. Problems or issues that many people, especially women, face are combined with issues that Irish people know and deal with every day. For me it made many things tangible, to hear from people who grow up with these realities of life or are closer to these realities of life is a personal way of learning. A way that is also very instructive for me and I wouldn't want to miss. I would like to thank Helen Cullen for the personal insights into her stories and look forward to reading more from her. “ “I really enjoyed Helen Cullen's reading. She has a very pleasant voice that you want to listen to for a long time. The excerpts from her books were very interesting and well chosen. I really liked the background information she gave. This made it easier to understand the content. But what I liked most was the way she answered questions from the audience. I really liked the story of how her books came about and how long such a process takes. (…)” "Helen Cullen's reading was a literary revelation. The captivating excerpts from her novels spurred my immediate interest and prompted their purchase. Her insightful exploration of motherhood and feminism in Irish society provided a fresh perspective. What intrigued me most was Helen's unique approach to storytelling - piecing narrativs together from fragments. Her dive into Ireland's language and tradition added depth to the overall experience. The origin of her first book, stemming from personal struggles and spontaneous writing, inspired me to adopt a daily writing practice. In essence, Helen's reading was not only enjoyable but a throught-provoking journey into her distinctive storytelling and cultural insights." "Helen's reading from her novels was just great! She did not only read excerpts from her novels but shared many anecdotes, pieces of advice regarding creative writing and insights about Irish literature and culture. I really enjoyed listening to her and particularly liked the lively discussion during the Q&A."      Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/IMG-20231213-WA0009.jpg Position: students Signature Image:

Helen Cullen at the Literaturhaus Dortmund Description: "Helen Cullen’s reading was a profound experience that stirred introspection and emotion. She showcased brilliance as a writer by questioning my own beliefs through her literature and her presentation of it. Moreover, the reading offered personal insights into Helen Cullen’s writing process, which were delicious food for thought. Moments like exploring life lessons and emphasizing the value of true experiences in a digital age were truly remarkable. I highly recommend attending her readings for a blend of literary excellence and insightful reflections." Jakob Eisenhardt *** "I thoroughly enjoyed Helen Cullen’s reading; it was perfectly structured. Striking a good balance between reading excerpts from her book and sharing personal insights on her life as an author, she seamlessly transitioned, making it easy for listeners to follow." Malak Hallal *** "The reading at the Literaturhaus was a wonderfully enriching event. Ms. Cullen shared a great deal regarding both the practical aspects of writing and how the juxtaposition of past and contemporary Irish culture informed her newest novel. She told the listeners several thought-provoking anecdotes and personal experiences to illustrate her artistic process, as well as the underlying themes she explores in her work. Ms. Cullen also thoughtfully addressed the audience questions with an inviting warmth and humour. Finally, the inclusion of the translation readings added a key edifying element that allowed the audience to experience Cullen's fiction in an interesting new way, and elevated the event from a simple reading to a fabulously informative and inclusive cultural exchange." Johannes Linnan *** "I had a great time at Helen Cullen's reading. Not only did she give an insight into her writing process and into Irish culture, but she was also very funny and perfectly balanced heavy topics and more lighthearted stories. The event was well organized and ended up making me order Helen's first novel which I cannot wait to read." Nicole Mellin *** "I had a blissful evening at Helen Cullen's reading. I learned a lot about Ireland, social and gender issues, and writing literature. But not only was the reading informative, it also loaded with laughter and inspirational thoughts." Charlotte Menne *** "Helen Cullen's reading was enlightening. I enjoyed learning about her motivations for writing and her journey to becoming a published author. Especially interesting were her experiences with her editors and the discussions she had about her use of language and inclusion of Irish culture in the book. I also liked learning about her thoughts on the translations of the English and German texts. Overall, her reading not only delivered a captivating story but also offered valuable insights into her own perspective of the topics that are handled in the novel." Chantal Dworaczek *** "The reading by Helen Cullen was an enriching experience. Engaging with her novel over the past few weeks and gaining insights into her background and writing process added a delightful perspective to the story. The reading also encouraged me to read her first novel. Moreover, Helen Cullen inspired me to write letters to people I care about. Thank you, Prof. Sedlmayr, for organizing this event!" Hülya Uysal Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/Helen%20Cullen_Dortmund_20231211%20-%2014.jpeg Position: audience members Signature Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/Helen%20Cullen_Dortmund_20231211%20-%201_smaller_0.jpeg

Poetry Reading Ailbhe Ní Ghearbhuigh in Bratislava Description: "Ailbhe Ní Ghearbhuigh sat down with us (first year English language and literature students) in our university café at Comenius University to read us her works of poetry first in English, then in Irish. Not only had some of my classmates never engaged with Irish poetry, but some also had the amazing opportunity to hear the Irish language for the very first time in their lives. Ms. Ní Ghearbhuigh’s dedication to writing modern poetry in Irish at a time when it may be considered “old-fashioned” or “out-of-date” to do so was inspiring, especially as the daughter of an Irish migrant who had lost touch with Irish due to my growing up in Slovakia. Her poetry was captivating, atmospheric, and insightful, and my colleagues came away with a new relationship to Irish literature in a country where we would have had fewer opportunities to come into contact with it naturally. We are all incredibly thankful to Ms. Ní Ghearbhuigh and EFACIS for organizing this pleasant and enriching event." --Louise Nash, undergraduate student of English and Philosophy "The chance to meet and greet such a great contemporary poet was a truly unforgettable experience. Ailbhe’s presentation (and discussion over coffee) was enlightening, charming and funny, and it truly sparked a new interest in me – listening to poetry in languages I don’t understand! It gave me a whole new appreciation for the medium and a truly, completely new appreciation for the Irish language." --Michal Chudy, graduate student of English and Italian Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/photo13.jpg Position: students Signature Image:

Poetry Reading Ailbhe Ní Ghearbhuigh at Centre for Irish Studies Prague Description: "It was a treat hearing Ailbhe Ní Ghearbhuigh's poems in Irish, with their individual backstories, and such an amazing concept, to get one poem read in three languages. It really got me thinking about the uniqueness of the experience of the original text and it s translations into English and Czech. Ní Ghearbhuigh's poetry was magical in each and every one of them. I'm really grateful for being there." Lenka Liebichová *** "The lecture by Dr. Ailbhe Ní Ghearbhuigh was an interesting experience, offering new points of view on the works of Biddy Jenkinson. Focusing on nature and its role in the writing, Dr. Ní Ghearbhuigh opened ways to read Jenkinson differently, with more attention placed on the world the story takes place in, and on the way this world and its happenings enhance the themes of Jenkinson's writings. While the lecture was memorable by itself, the part about smoking out the beehives and its correlation with the morality and sensibility at the centre of various of Jenkinson's characters stood out the most, with many of the attendees coming back to it even after te lecture. The language was another interesting part of the lecture, as Jenkinson's texts were presented in the original Irish, so that meanings were less at the risk of getting lost, and one could enjoy the language and even practice one's own skill (or lament the lack thereof, in some difficult cases). Overall, it was an inspiring experience, prompting one to not only read more of Jenkinson's work, but to read it with attention given to the natural world and how it is reflected in the particular story."  Jáchym Hàjek *** "The lecture held by Dr. Ailbhe Ní Ghearbhuigh showed the audience her inspiring scholarly insights, however, I was personally most impressed by the poetry reading that followed in the evening. We could experience a couple of Ní Ghearbhuigh's selected poems both in the original Irish version and in the English and Czech translations. I very much enjoyed the thrilling atmosphere of this live reading, especially since Dr. Ní Ghearbhuigh accompanied the poems with backstories about her motivations for writing them, which took their meaning to a new level."  Michaela Svatošová   (c) photo Ailbhe at reading by Petra Římalová Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/allbyPetra%20%C5%98%C3%ADmalov%C3%A1.jpg Position: Student Signature Image:

Literary Evening with Pat Boran and Sheila Armstrong, LCIS writers-in-residence Description: "On the evening of October 19th, the Irish College came alive with the enchanting presence of celebrated writers Sheila Armstrong and Pat Boran. The event witnessed a tremendous outpouring of interest from an enthusiastic audience, a testament to the profouond impact of their literary creations. With eager anticipation, attendees settled in for what turned out to be an unforgettable event. Sheila Armstrong transported the audience into the vivid world of her latest book, with a captivating reading that left us hypnotized. Pat Boran, in turn, graced us with the lyrical beauty of his poetry from his latest work, evoking a symphony of emotions within the hearts of those in attencdance. The magic of the evening didn't stop there. Following their readings, the floor was open for a thought-provoking and engaging Q&A session. The audience actively seized the opportunity to delve deeper into the intricacies of the authors' works, exploring themes like the scapegoats that peppered their narratives, the symbolism that enriched their pages, and the essence of Irish identity that resonated throughout their writings. Sheila and Pat proved to be not only gifted writers, but also gracious and insightful conversationalists. Their articulate and transparent responses to the audience's questions enriched the evening, leaving everyone with a deeper appreciation of their works and the ideas behind them. It was a harmonious exchange of thoughts and ideas concluding the night on a heartwarming and positive note."   Marta Marogna (BA student)   Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/20231019_205148.jpg Position: Student Signature Image:

Gerry Smyth at the University of Strasbourg Description: I enjoyed so much my visits to the beautiful cities of Lyon and Strasbourg as part of the 2023 Irish Itinerary. In Lyon I delivered a plenary lecture at a conference on Stories and Communities; and in Strasbourg I performed a concert of Irish musical material. I was warmly welcomed by local academics, and besides my Itinerary commitments I had time to experience some aspects of the cultural life of each city. Travel and accommodation arrangements were exemplary as ever.  Gerry Smyth Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/Gerry_Strasbourg.jpg Position: Signature Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/IMG_0344_smaller.JPG

Gerry Smyth at the University of Lyon Description: We were delighted to welcome Gerry Smyth, who told us about his upcoming book on Atlantic myths and legends from all over the world, and discussed the technical, ethical and formal issues at stake. His conference and the discussion afterwards were deeply enriching, and we are very thankful to EFACIS for making this possible.   Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/Gerry%20Smyth_Lyon%20%282%29_0.jpg Position: Dr. Marion Bourdeau Signature Image:

Students' reactions to Jan Carson's reading at the University of Ghent Description: "It was fascinating to find out more about Jan Carson's work. As a Belgian student, I was amazed by how The Troubles are presented in her work, namely the big diversity in how they are experienced in different times and by people form different age groups. I loved seeing her use of magical realism in presenting some of those different experiences. This evening was not only enjoyable but also an eye-opener."   Astrid Sondakh     "Walking into the auditorium, I was not expecting to be surprised as I had already read some of Jan Carson's work. Besides, as an English language student, I have a bit of a background on the history of Ireland in the late 20th Century. Carson, however, had me completely blown away by the personal stories accompanied linked to these events and how she incorporates her own experiences, such as her work with patients who suffer from dementia, in words on paper. Getting used to th Irish accent takes five minutes, but you gladly stay for the whole Q&A session."   Laura Delbarre Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/DSC_0950.JPG Position: students Signature Image:

SJ McArdle at the Irish College Leuven Description: (c) Photos by Tom Herbots Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/StPatrick-608.jpg Position: musician Signature Image:

Jan Carson's reading at Nijmegen Description: The pub lecture with Jan Carson was absolutely phenomenal. Carson joined us in our local pub in NIjmegen to discuss her work and life as a Northern-Irish author. Quite a few people had not read her work yet, but her enthusiasm and humour were so contagious that we did not notice how fast the time passed. We were able to ask a lot of questions and Carson's answers showed her creativity, personality, and love for Norhtern Ireland, books, and people. It was fascinating to hear her talk about her past and how she interweaves it with present Northern Ireland, as well as magical realism. We are so happy Jan Carson wanted to join us and cannot wait to read her work.  Iris van der List Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/6629571B-1014-4B35-B67F-92C206F4B4ED.jpeg Position: Student Signature Image:

Kateřina García and Pádraig Ó Liatháin about their visit to the University of La Rioja Description: We had a fantastic experience at the Irish Itinerary Seminar 2023 of the Centre for Irish Studies BANNA/BOND, at the University of La Rioja. The event was excellently organised by Dr Melania Terrazas and her team. Dr Terrazas was a fabulous host, very forthcoming and helpful at all times. The lectures and events at the seminar were enlightening and thought-provoking. Furthermore, La Rioja is a region incredibly rich in history, culture and gastronomy. We had a fantastic stay there! It is wonderful to see the growth, and excellent level, of Irish studies in the region, and in Spain more generally, and we look forward to contributing again to their seminars and conferences.    Dr Kateřina García (TCD) Dr Pádraig Ó Liatháin (DCU) Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/photo4_1.jpg Position: Musicians & academics Signature Image:

Students about Theo Dorgan's visit at the Granada Centre of Irish Studies Description: I can speak on behalf of all my MA colleagues in saying that Theo Dorgan’s visit was the highlight of the Seminar. Having read and analysed some of his poems, it was very touching to have the opportunity to listen to the author reciting them. Notably, when Theo read the poem 'Speaking to my father' some of the attendees started crying and it was a really emotional moment. It is also worth noting Theo’s patience and effort to answer thoroughly the questions of my MA colleagues. In particular, I enjoyed when he was asked about his passion for Greek mythology and he associated Rome to Britain and Greece to Ireland. Anytime that he was asked a question he was also capable of opening a new discussion and enriching us with his sharp remarks. My favourite part was his reading of the poem 'Envoi Cape Horn', which is my favourite one. I also appreciated his explanation about why he admired Lorca and how he considered his poetry to be a way of resistance. His reflections were very insightful and made us understand more profoundly the poems that we had previously analysed. Moreover, his presence in other activities of the Seminar such as the Daly’s workshop or the Glen Hansard’s roundtable further proved how humane and considerate he is. Overall, I am grateful that I discovered this wonderful poet thanks to the MA classes and I look forward to reading more of his work. Elia Morilla García *** Last Thursday 26th February we had the pleasure of having Theo Dorgan with us at the Faculty of Arts to present his two new books and read many of his earlier works that we had previously analysed in class. We conversed with the renowned Irish poet for almost two hours which passed too swiftly. He started introducing himself and reading some poems that we have studied for class such as 'Speaking to My Father' — which felt quite emotional and moving —, 'Envoi: Cape Horn' or 'The Witness'. He was highly attentive to our questions and seemed to be enjoying everything as much as we did. He answered some questions my colleagues and I had prepared. He was completely transparent and generous and talked about his personal life to better understand his work. Greek mythology was one of the most salient topics we dealt with since, as Theo Dorgan himself told us, he has been greatly influenced by it and he likes reimagining and revising old myths. We also discussed the influence that Lorca had on him since we were in Aula García Lorca, and we talked about what it means to be a poet, about inspiration, sailing, his way of writing, the influence his dad had on him, and many other topics. The impression he left on us was that of a magnificent poet who shares his vulnerability in order to create beautiful art, meanwhile remaining humble and approachable. It was quite an emotional session that enriched our understanding of his work and greatly inspired many of us. Mencey I. González Armas *** During the celebration of The VI International Seminar on Irish Studies, me and other classmates who attend the Master’s Degree in English Literature and Linguistics at the UGR got to meet and talk to Theo Dorgan. In my opinion, listening to a writer recite their poetry is something unique as it amplifies the literary experience. The words that make up a poem take on new meanings, the stanzas become music, and the feelings and thoughts encapsulated in the poem become more vivid. That is exactly what happened during the session with Theo. By reading his poetry, Theo allowed us to see his poems in another light, a more personal and intense one. He was kind enough to answer our questions while sharing his personal views on issues such as memory, family, respect, love, and poetry. One of the reasons why I really like his poetry is the way he honours the people whose lives were marked by precariousness and injustice. As he answered our questions and made commentaries about his poems, I was able to understand where this exercise of acknowledgement and appreciation came from. When talking about his poetry, he said “that is the garden that I inherited”, a phrase that, in my opinion, reflects what makes his poetry so special. Counting on his presence during the seminars has been a great pleasure, I think we are all very grateful to have had the opportunity to spend some time with him.  Elvira Aguilera García *** I usually do not like poetry that much, but when we read and analysed Theo Dorgan's poems in class I found them truly motivational. I thought the session with Dorgan would be entertaining because we would be able to talk about the poems we saw, but it was more than that. For me, the session with Theo Dorgan was the best of the whole Seminar in Irish Studies. His way of reading the poems and through the reading show a feeling beyond the words, the way he interspersed the explanation of a question with a personal anecdote, and his way of being in general, created a very nice atmosphere in the room that I am sure all the attendees noticed. In fact, I would like to read more of his work because of all that he conveyed in such a short time. It seems to me that he had a very approachable way of explaining his works, and that allows one to connect in a personal way. Eva Villegas López *** On the second day of the seminar, we had the pleasure of meeting Theo Dorgan, a writer whose work we have previously studied in class, and ask him questions related to the poems we had read. It was an honour for us having someone that important in the Irish culture and literature, and having the privilege to ask him questions about the topics in his poems. Theo Dorgan was incredible, not only as a poet, but as a person. Moreover, Theo Dorgan’s approach to his parents in his poems left us speechless. His performance was extraordinary and we could all see the love he has for his parents. As a person, we could all witness how Theo’s presence was spectacular. We all described Theo as a genuine and kind person, with a great sense of humour and a caring personality. Theo showed himself as a communicative and a generous person, as he did not mind staying with us several times responding to our doubts outside of the talks, taking pictures with us or even signing books. Due to the fact that there was a limited time for his session, I did not have the pleasure of asking him a question. However, my colleagues did have the opportunity to do so and Theo’s response was magnificent. Theo’s visit during this seminar, was a standout performance, not only for me, but for all of the students. Samuel José García *** On Thursday 26th January, the Irish poet Theo Dorgan came to give a one-hour-long talk where he read some poems that we had already read and discussed in class, such as 'The Witness', 'Orpheus', 'Eurydice', 'Family Tree', 'It Goes On', 'The Choice' and 'Cape Horn'. This was one of my favourite presentations as Theo has a way of communicating what he reads and what he says that truly gets to you and makes you empathise with him and his experiences. The poem that really made a difference for me was The Witness. This poem is a really personal one but I think that when I first read it, it did not have the same impact as it did when he read it in the presentation. His voice, his intonation and his emphasis turned the experience of the poem into a very different and more emotional one. He made the audience connect with the poem, with the meaning behind it, even if you have not experienced what the poem tells; you feel his story as your own. Sheila Rodríguez ***    Many times when you analyse several texts by the same author in class, you feel a sort of connection with them. Having the opportunity to meet Theo Dorgan after having worked with his poems in class was a truly enriching experience that made that feeling of connection even stronger. His talent has the ability of getting anyone into poetry. However, being able to listen to him speak with such passion was the icing on the cake. His reading was magnificent, and you could tell by how moved the people in the audience were. However, what surprised me most was how he answered our questions. He is one of those people that you can tell are wise just by the way they communicate, but still have the ability to give straightforward answers comprehensible to anyone listening. I am very thankful for him really taking the time to listen to us and to teach us all he had the opportunity to. This day definitely marked a before and an after in my love and appreciation for poetry. Olatz Larrauri *** Having the opportunity to meet in person a poet whose work we have discussed in class is not something you get to experience every day. Theo Dorgan's humility, humour and emotions touch the soul of every person who hears him recite his poems. No matter the listener's age, the power of his words moves you deeply. He took his time answering each one of our questions in a calm and interesting way, making us all feel very comfortable conversating. During his talk and recital, Theo Dorgan spoke about the fear of not doing enough in life, but I can assure you, from a young point of view, that he has changed many people's opinions of poetry, including my own. The way his words open up emotionally and the sincerity with which he expresses himself is not something that comes easily, as well as the beautiful way he gives voice to forgotten characters from Greek mythology. I can only thank him for the inspiration he has given, and give him my congratulations and my deep gratitude. Silvana Delclós   Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/photo2.jpg Position: MA Students Signature Image:

Book launch 'The Writer's Torch', with Nicole Flattery and Sean O'Reilly Description: On Friday 2 December the Leuven Centre for Irish Studies launched the publication of The Writer's Torch: Reading Stories from The Bell (2022, Stinging Fly Press), an anthology of eighteen short stories originally published in The Bell, Ireland's iconic mid-twentieth-century literary magazine, with responses from contemporary Irish writers such as Anne Enright, Éilís Ní Dhuibhne and Danny Denton. We were very fortunate to have two of the respondents with us that evening: Nicole Flattery gave a captivating reading of her story "Plaster", a lockdown story about fanatical routines written in response to John Hewitt's story "Mould" that appeared in The Bell in 1952. Sean O'Reilly treated us to a spirited account of his personal connection to Liam O'Flaherty and offered some insightful reflections on O'Flaherty's short stories. Their readings were followed by a drinks reception hosted by the Irish Embassy to Belgium. Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/319123631_1858411904490621_5572722264321491004_n.jpg Position: Phyllis Boumans, doctoral researcher Signature Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/Sean%20o%20Reilly%20picture.jpg

Lucy Caldwell and Anne Enright in conversation Description: On a bitterly cold, late November evening we were treated to a warm conversation with two of Ireland's most prominent contemporary, female writers, Anne Enright and Lucy Caldwell. The event, chaired by Professor Hedwig Schwall, saw both writers share their unique insights into what being Irish and "Irishness" means to them in 21st century Ireland and abroad. Enright engaged the audience with her always sharp and often subversive humour and captivated with her readings. The more soft-spoken Caldwell regaled us with stories of her hometown of Belfast and gave accounts of how Northern Ireland has acted as an ever-present inspiration on her work as a writer. Overall, it was a thoroughly enjoyable evening for everyone in attendance and a testament to LCIS and EFACIS's dedicated promotion of Irish culture across Europe.   Francis Shortle, Cultural Studies student (KU Leuven)   Photos courtesy of Erik Derycke Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/audience%20Leuven%20College.jpg Position: Signature Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/photo%20conv%20Lucy_Anne_Hedwig.jpg

Mary O'Donnell and Jaki McCarrick at the Irish College, Leuven Description:   'It is rarely we are able to see into the mind and soul of a writer. In Leuven on the 19th of October we had that chance with writers Mary O'Donnell and Jacki McCarrick ably guided by Siobhan Campbell who curated the discussion. Within an intimate setting, the writers described their inspirations. processes and read some excerpts from their work and fielded quite some intricate and profound questions in such an open and relaxed manner that made for a great learning and growing experience.' James Candon Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/photo%204.jpg Position: Signature Image:

Adam Wyeth on the German Irish Itinerary Description: My EFACIS tour of Germany was a real delight from beginning to end. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing more of the country across the various modes of public transport. It's always exciting entering a new city for the first time, especially as I was so warmly welcomed by each of my brilliant hosts: Professors Christoph Reinfandt, Joachim Frenk and Ralf Haekel. My first stop was Saarbrücken, then I was off to Tübingen and I finished in Leipzig. It was such a pleasure to read my work and share some of my ideas surrounding Irish mythology, modernism and depth psychology, which I've been exploring for the past few years. I was immediately struck by the engagement from all the students. To have so many shiny-eyed scholars assiduously poring over my work with stimulating exchanges and intelligent questions was extremely gratifying. Writing is a pretty solitary affair most of the time so to have this opportunity to connect with so many great people who share a deep interest in Irish literature and a strong knowledge in Celtic studies was a total thrill. I feel I have made a lot of real long-lasting friendships and connections which I'm extremely grateful for. Thank you all so much for having me and for making my visit so enjoyable.  Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/Tubingen_3_1.jpeg Position: writer Signature Image:

Audience reactions to Oisín Kearney in Wuppertal Description: At the conclusion of the first day of the Irish Border Narratives Symposium from 16-17 June 2022 at the Bergische Universität Wuppertal, Sandra Heinen interviewed director and playwright Oisín Kearney in a panel on 'Staging Irish Border Narratives.' Their discussion of Oisín Kearney's plays (co-written with Michael Patrick) of The Alternative, a winner of 'A Play for Ireland' initiative, and The Border Game was deeply engaging. The audience was thoroughly enlivened by Oisín Kearney's wry sense of humour and his keen insights about dramatically staging border aesthetics. In fact, this EFACIS Irish Itinerary event has inspired me to teach a seminar on 'Irish Border Plays' in an upcoming semester in which I will most certainly include The Border Game. Dr. Jessica Bundschuh (University of Stuttgart)   "To close the first day of the Irish Border Narratives International Symposium in Wuppertal (June 16-17, 2022), we were treated to Oisín Kearney in Conversation with Sandra Heinen. And what a treat it was! It was so interesting to hear Kearney discuss his view of theatre as a safe space in which to interrogate and investigate complex traumas, with specific staging and stagecraft decisions as a way of being political without being in a political arena. I was so inspired that I will certainly be assigning "Border Lands" or "The Alternative" in my next course on Irish theatre!" Prof. Dr. Michelle Witten (University of Flensburg) Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/Kearney%20and%20Heinen%20irish%20itinerary%202_1.png Position: audience Signature Image:

Oisín Kearney in Wuppertal, Germany Description: 'The Irish Border Narratives Symposium in Wuppertal was extremely interesting. The delegates were experts on the border from various disciplines and could speak to the jural, sociological, literary and filmic iterations of the border. I spoke about my plays, which have dealt with the history and changing perceptions of the border in recent years. It was a positive experience, with knowledge-sharing, lively discussions, and the making of friends. A fantastic time.' Oisín Kearney Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/Oisin%20headshot.png Position: writer & director Signature Image:

Mary Morrissy at the University of Alcalá, Madrid Description: 'There was a great sense of occasion about my visit to the University of Alcalá as it was the inaugural event of the university’s Irish Studies Centre, brainchild of Dr Marisol Morales- Ladrón. The presence of the cultural attaché of the Irish embassy, Rory Geraghty, representing the ambassador (who was officiating at the opening of another Irish Studies Centre in Spain on the same day!) added to the celebratory air.    There was a very generous attendance at the reading, especially given that it was almost the last day of term for students and their thoughts must have surely been on exams. They were clearly familiar with my work and they asked lots of interesting questions  - our discussions covered feminism, cultural appropriation and the ethics of writing biofiction. One student approached me afterwards to ask if any of my work has been translated into Spanish.  It hasn’t, so I’m hoping one of these days that that situation might change, thanks to my visit to Alcalá. Alcalá is a beautiful city and Dr Morales-Ladrón was the perfect host guiding us through the winding streets of the city, inviting us to her home and introducing us to such culinary delights as salmorejo.  So, truly, a cultural exchange on all levels!' Mary Morrissy Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/ful%20panel%20smiling_1.JPG Position: Irish novelist and short story writer Signature Image:

Professor Pilar Villar Argaíz on the Literary Festival at Valladolid Description: Thanks to EFACIS, we could bring to the Valladolid literary festival two of Ireland’s leading writers at present: Mary O’Donnell and Jan Carson. I chaired a roundtable with them and afterwards they went to sign their books in the main square of this beautiful city. The readings were held in a beautifully furnished historical building and thanks to simultaneous translation in Spanish, the events were accessible to the overall public not necessarily fluent in English. Professor Pilar Villar Argaíz Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/Mary%2C%20Jan%2C%20Pilar%20at%20panel.jpg Position: Senior Lecturer of British and Irish Literatures, University of Granada Signature Image:

Jan Carson in Burgos, Spain Description: 'I love being a European writer. Unbelievably grateful for all the conversations and connections in Spain this week at aedei 2022.' Writer Jan Carson on her trip to the AEDEI Conference 2022 in Burgos, Spain Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/MaryOdonnell%20and%20Jan%20Carson%20ADEDEI2022.jpg Position: writer Signature Image:

Student reactions to Mary Morrissy's talk at the "Alka-Éire", Alcalá Centre for Irish Studies, Madrid Description:   Students of the MA Programme in Anglophone and Hispanic Literatures Olivia Serret Sanz: Mary Morrisy's work constitutes tangible proof of the essential role literary studies and institutions like Alka-Éire continue to play nowadays. Literature allows us to rescue from the fringes of history all those lives that make up the patchwork of our collective memory, that build the intrahistoria Miguel de Unamuno talked about. Restoring historical figures such as Bella Casey or Nora Barnacle back into culture enables us to shed a light on the societies which forgot about them, but also on the society that has actively chosen to remember and celebrate them.   Cody Alexander Troyan: Hearing Mary Morrissy give voice to her characters as well as comment on her approach towards historical fiction writing was an illuminating experience —especially her distinction between the research methodology of a novelist versus that of an academic.   Students of the Degree in English Studies   María Valle Garrido: I am writing to convey my thanks to professor Marisol Morales-Ladrón for making Mary Morrissy's talk possible through her work and effort. One of the most special readings for this course has been The Rising of Bella Casey, perhaps because I have been able to get to know the author. While she was reading a fragment of the book, I realised that she has the ability to transmit each of her sensations and atmospheres that surround her thanks to her gaze and the way she expresses herself. In addition, the content and form of this work is enduring, as the novel manages to create such an asphyxiating atmosphere that it manages to go beyond the paper and reach the reader, making you never forget it, neither the work nor the feelings it evoked.   Francisco Chacón Giménez: First of all, I would like to point out that I found the presentation very interesting. Presentations of this kind allow not only to get to know the novel better but also to get to know a little bit of the author's more personal side. I really liked the fact that at the beginning of the presentation Mary Morrissy read a few pages of the story, as it helped me to put myself in the situation and remember the novel. I found the presentation very enjoyable and it has helped me to have a broader vision of the story and to solve some doubts, since some very interesting questions arose during the talk. I personally asked Mary Morrissy a question, and I was very satisfied with the answer. It was certainly a great initiative to bring such an important writer to give a talk, and it would be great to have more talks of this kind. Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/Mary%20reading_0.JPG Position: Students of the MA Programme in Anglophone and Hispanic Literatures and the Degree in English Studies Signature Image:

Audience reactions to the Irish Literary Night at the Irish College, Leuven Description: 'During the Irish Book Night on Thursday 5 May, we were graced by the presence of three wonderful Irish authors Sinead Gleeson, Mike McCormack and Paul McVeigh, who immersed us in their writing. A dive into their work and lives drew us closer to their stories and we became acquainted with the extraordinary people behind the words. Constellations let us wander in the truly astounding life of Sinead Gleeson, Mike McCormack's experimental work in Solar Bones took us on a fascinating journey of life and death, and Paul McVeigh captivated us with an incredibly moving coming-of-age story in The Good Son. Needless to say, everyone left the literary evening with heartwarming anecdotes and inspirational stories, eager to see which future projects the authors have in store.' Julia Matvij ******************* 'One of the highlights of the first edition of the Druk in Leuven literary festival (May 2022) was the evening with Sinéad Gleeson, Mike McCormack and Paul McVeigh in the Irish College in Leuven. In conversation with professor Elke D'hoker, the three authors talked about life, art and writing and the myriad of ways in which these intersect. In between questions, they managed to entertain, inspire and captivate the audience with brilliant readings from their stories. Many thanks to LCIS, Irish College Leuven and 30CC for inviting these three fascinating authors and for enriching the festival with voices from Dublin, Galway and Belfast.' Lara Dutry Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/panel%20Mike%20Sinead%20Paul.jpg Position: Signature Image:

MA Students in Granada on the digital visits of Emilie Pine, Donal Ryan and Colette Bryce Description: I am really grateful to Prof. Pilar Villar Argáiz for gifting us with the opportunity to meet in real life the authors of the masterful narratives we have been working on in class: Emilie Pine, Donal Ryan and Colette Bryce. I had never experienced something like that, but being able to discuss literary texts with their own creators has resulted into an amazingly enriching and inspirational experience. The sessions we had with the writers helped me to understand their work in greater depth, to engage in passionate and critical discussions and to comprehend the motivations and particular circumstances surrounding Irish writing. We shared with them truly sincere and precious moments that reminded me of the value of literature and boosted my love for writing. Thank you so much to Pilar, Emilie, Donal and Colette for their kindness, their humanity and the generosity with which they have treated us. Belén Cornejo Daza ***** The opportunity to interact and have a conversation with authors Emilie Pine, Donal Ryan and Colette Bryce has been one of the most central and valuable experiences of this MA Program. As a student of English Literature, aspiring writer and enjoyer of Irish culture and literary tradition, I enjoyed this opportunity to understand and delve into the mind and writing process of very creative and outstanding minds. This experience has proved to be of great value, as engaging in critical conversations and debates and having a challenging conversation has helped us uncover and interpret explicit and implicit notions, nuances and contexts. Forever grateful to Pilar, EFACIS and the three kind visiting authors for bringing us this opportunity. Hopefully, more students will be able to enjoy this tête-à-têtes with such brilliant minds and surrounded by such great company. Fernández Crujeiras ***** I had never had the chance to talk to, not only one, but three professional writers so intimately before. Thanks to Prof. Villar, the students in the MA programme have been able to get really deep insights into the work of Emilie Pine, Donal Ryan and Colette Bryce and then the chance to discuss it with them personally. I consider this experience one of the most enriching of my academic life and I believe I speak on behalf of my colleagues when I say that being able to engage in such critical discussion has been very enriching and inspiring. I hope this year brings them renewed success and that they decide to share it with us once more with the same generosity and kindness." Adrián Castro ***** When you study a literary text you always imagine what it would be like to have the writer in front of you to ask her or him about their work. Thanks to EFACIS and Prof. Pilar Villar, this has become a reality for me this year. Having the chance to speak to the writers of the literary pieces that we have worked on in class has been a real pleasure and has helped me to deepen my understanding of them. The sessions were truly inspirational and emotive. The authors (Emilie Pine, Donal Ryan and Colette Bryce) were very nice to us and they answered all our questions. This experience is invaluable and it has certainly reinforced my love for literature and for Ireland and its culture. Thank you so much to everyone who made it possible. Javier Morillas ***** It has been such a nice experience to meet some of the most relevant present day Irish writers: Emily Pine, Donald Ryan and Colette Bryce. This has been a unique oportunity to listen to their own feelings and thoughts related to their literary works, which we had read. It has been very fruitul to ask these people questions about their work and so it will be necessary to keep on doing this in the following academic years. Juan García Gallego. ***** It has been a pleasure to share some time with Emily Pine, Donal Ryan and Colette Bryce even though they couldn't be present because of the covid crisis. I think that their literature is really adapted to the contemporary ages and always takes into account a feminist perspective. However, I would like to thank Colette Bryce particulary since her literature has appeared at a very crucial point in my life and I hope I get to know her in the future. Beatriz Romero Velasco Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/IMG_20220128_123054.jpg Position: MA students Signature Image:

Student reactions to the readings & discussions with Lucy Caldwell on Monday 24 February Description: “Lucy Caldwell blessed our grey and rainy Monday morning – a true dreich day, just like the one mentioned in her short story “Here we are” – with a captivating reading on her life and work. A classroom full of students was taken along on a fascination trip across her childhood in Belfast, her move to England as a student, and her first steps as a writer. Reading excerpts from some of her stories, engaging with student questions and musing about the power of litany in the music of Van Morrison, and, as Louis MacNeice famously put it, “the drunkenness of things being various,” she managed to entertain her audience all throughout the reading, sending everybody home with the reassuring thought that no matter what others tell you, your own stories really do matter.​” (Lara Dutry on the morning session)   “In a morning lecture on the 24th of February, the Northern Irish author Lucy Caldwell was invited to present her successful collection of short stories Multitudes and her newest collection Intimacies, creating a wonderful opportunity for us to get in touch with her life and work. Her reading was very insightful, not only focusing on her past and her inspiration to write these stories, but also inspiring us to start writing ourselves. She explained what motivated her during her writing process, and demonstrated the immense effect you can create in your writing with just minor differences in detail. This lecture was an amazing experience where we became acquainted with a brilliant writer and her fascinating vision on literature and identity.” (Julia Matvij on the morning session)   “On Monday evening, we attended a reading by the amazing Irish author Lucy Caldwell, who captivated all of us with her enthusiastic and inspiring anecdotes and a beautiful excerpt from her new short story collection. She told us that throughout her life she always negotiated the world through reading, and in my opinion, she most definitely does this through writing as well.” (Kelsey Dewulf on the reading in Waterstones) “Lucy Caldwell’s reading at the Brussels Waterstones store was the perfect way to heat up and face the dreich, as she herself described it, February day. While the wind and rain were playing outside, her voice transported us right into Belfast. She showed us the city through her eyes, using her own voice to create a collection of short stories that united it. By telling how she got to writing the stories, you could not help but feel the itch to pick up your own pen. She assured everyone present that it is exactly in the moments of big, important discourse that one should write about the things they do not see in those discourses. Creating the literature that you always felt lacked in the current world of literatures. We all have a voice, and we should use it to create what we feel we need today.” (Ariëlle Decroix on the reading in Waterstones)   Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/1%20ELke%20introducing%20Lucy_0.jpg Position: Signature Image:

Mary O'Donnell in Saarbrücken Description: The German-Irish Society Saarland in cooperation with the Chair of British Literary and Cultural Studies at Saarland university and Saarbrücken City Library was delighted to welcome Mary O’Donnell on her Irish Itinerary tour in Germany. Mary gave a fantastic reading to an audience eagerly listening to excerpts from ‘Empire’ and ‘Where They Lie’ followed by a Q&A session. Questions covered a wide range of topics from the contents of the books to the author’s creative writing process. We were delighted to see a good crowd showing up made up of students, workers, retirees and more – exactly the kind of general public the Irish Itinerary is hosted for. The reading was held in a hospitable and attentive atmosphere at the City Library’s Reader’s Café surrounded by large windows giving us a feeling of being in a room that was at once enlightened and shining brightly, spreading its glow out into Saarbrücken’s December dark. Following the reading and the Q&A Mary was signing copies of her books, some of which she brought along herself and some of which members of the audience brought along; the latter, undoubtedly, goes to show Mary is an author much-read not only in Ireland but also abroad. We are absolutely over the moon with the wonderful writer that is Mary O’Donnell and would like to express our heartfelt thanks to her for joining us. In addition, we would like to thank EFACIS and Culture Ireland for their administrative and financial support, and Saarbrücken City Library for being such a kind host. We look forward to working further with all of them in the years to come. Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/Mary%20O%27Donnell.jpg Position: Signature Image:

Anne Haverty in Santiago de Compostela & Braga Description: Invited to Santiago de Compostela in Spain and Braga, Portugal, I went in September. The events were at the Universities, both of them crowded with an attentive assembly, some of them students and faculty who were reading my work, and others who were interested in Ireland and Irish writers and in writing in general. And each was different in its emphases, an enjoyable challenge for me. It was great too to be warmly welcomed by an enthusiastic Faculty in both places and to explore these fascinating places. Special thanks to Manuela and Filomena who brought me uphill and down dale in their respective cities. And to my billet in Santiago, the Casa de Europa, for being a lovely haven.  Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/Anne%20Haverty_0.jpg Position: Signature Image:

William Wall in Trieste Description: In the summer of 2019, the renowned Cork-based novelist, poet and short story writer William Wall was invited to participate in the annual Joyce School in Trieste. Here is what he had to say about the event: "As to the Joyce School itself, it was possibly the best festival/school I have ever attended. The hosts and the attendees were both equally weloming and appreciative. The location is superb and the accommodation provided was first class. I couldn't think of a single negative aspect. In addition, I heard numerous fascinating papers, some of which will spill over into my own writing for the future. So thank  you EFACIS for sponsoring me. I look forward to working with you in the future."   Photo credit: Liz Kirwan Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/William%20Wall%20-%20Credit%20Liz%20Kirwan_0.jpg Position: Signature Image:

Audience - Marina Carr in Wuppertal, 2018 Description: Students’ Reactions to Marina Carr’s Reading on the Irish Itinerary 2018 at the SWANE Café in Wuppertal “I had never attended a reading before. Therefore, I didn’t know what to expect. Now I can say that the reading of Marina Carr was a fascinating and memorable experience which I would recommend to any student of English literature. To hear the voice of the author herself gave me a completely new impression of the play we've read before.” (Caren Maria Germscheid) “The atmosphere created by Marina Carr's calm aura, the attentive audience and the candlelight ambience of the Swane Café made this reading a unique experience. The perfect setting for a first-time encounter of such an event.” (Yonca Karabatak) “For me the 20th of November 2018 was a very special and memorable day within the course of my literary studies. My fellow students and I had the chance to get in personal contact with one of the most popular dramatists of our time. Thanks to the Irish Itinerary Marina Carr found her way to Wuppertal all the way from Ireland and provided an evening full of dramatic reading and memorable emotion. This event gave me an insight into the life of a playwright and helped me to connect previously gained knowledge with reality.” (Timo Speck) “The reading by Marina Carr was a new experience to me. I’ve never been to a reading before nor met an author so far. It was a great pleasure to meet Marina Carr and to listen to her amazing voice. The way she presented the three plays made it easy to get into the plays and to imagine each and every character. If I get the chance, I’ll definitely visit such a great event again!” (Shinthujaa Nithianantham) “The reading by Marina Carr was an amazing experience I did not expect to encounter. Her way of presenting and reading three different plays was fascinating and mesmerizing at the same time. The atmosphere she was able to create with her voice, captured every person in the SWANE Café and allowed us to immerse in her plays.” (Miriam Köll) Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/pubrIMG_2011%20-%20Kopie.JPG Position: Signature Image:

Jessica Traynor Description: "Traveling to the EFACIS conference in Ljubljana in August of 2019 was a rare pleasure and privilege. Meeting with so many well-informed and interesting people with a passion for Irish history, politics and culture was inspiring and I feel I have developed some true and lasting connections. Reading to such a generous audience was a real highlight of the trip, and of my reading year so far. The discussion afterwards was enriching, and I came away feeling energised. The setting in beautiful, laid-back Ljubljana was also second to none. I hope I have many more EFACIS and Irish Itinerary-related trips ahead of me!" Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/69245676_10220096604663036_8213912988374007808_n.jpg Position: Signature Image:

Audience- Jan Carson Debrecen Description: (Szirák Anna Mária, BA student, University of Debrecen) It is a shame that sending postcards seems to be a dying art, because as author Jan Carson stood in front of us (an audience hopeful, yet worn after a long day’s work), I thought to myself, “This is the kind of thing I would send a postcard about.” It was, in fact, quite similar to the idea of a postcard; it was something pleasant and unexpected you find when going through the motions and reaching into the mailbox. Carson shared more than just her stories already published, she gave a light, sometimes bubbly, sometimes profound, and surprisingly educational talk, offering us dead grandmothers in the closet, bonfires making people leave their homes, warm yet unhappy coffee shops, and notorious Christmas-haters. The room was warm with laughter, and the rows reached so far Carson herself could barely make out the back of the crowd, but even that did not stop the brave ones (never myself) from asking questions at the end of the night. Truly, my postcard writes itself. One more thing, then time for stamps: even the gentleman sitting behind me, who used every 20 seconds to cough very loudly, could not stop me (and my peers) from having an enjoyable evening.                                                                                                  (Németh Réka Virág, MA student, Debrecen)                           Jan Carson’s name was not completely unknown for me when I arrived at Nagyerdei Víztorony for the annual reading. I have read Postcard Stories and two of her short stories: “Settling” and “Larger Ladies”, and I was delighted when she started the evening by reading out one of my favourites from the short story collection: “Week 41”. From then on, I was completely captivated by her. I got to know an easy-going, funny, and genuine person and an outstanding author from Northern Ireland. She did not try to avoid talking about the Troubles and how it affected her life; she talked about her personal experiences without making it too personal and uncomfortable for the audience. I definitely could have listened to her for days without realising how much time have passed. I am really glad she accepted the invitation, it was a wonderful evening, and I am really happy I was introduced to her work and got to hear her read.   Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/Jan%20Csilla%20Donald%20Me%20n.jpg Position: Signature Image:

MA-Students Granada- Collete Bryce's trip February 2019 Description: (Sara Calvo de Mora Mármol)- This International Seminar has been a very interesting experience, full of key figures that have shown us new things about Ireland that I believe most of us did not know before. This year’s edition has been particularly powerful because of the presence of a Magdalene survivor, Gabrielle O’Gorman and I am glad and grateful to have had her with us, sharing her sad story. But for me, the highlight of the week’s interventions was, by all means, the presence of Irish authors such as Colette Bryce, Chris Lee and Eibhear Walshe. And even though I liked all of their works, the reading by Bryce was the one that I enjoyed the most; very grateful to Pilar and to EFACIS for bringing this amazing writer to Spain and for getting to know her work better.   (Lara Fernández Delgado)- I really enjoyed Colette Bryce’s reading. I love poetry and I feel very grateful when I have the chance to hear the author reciting her own work. Colette Bryce deals with a lot of interesting topics and the way she builds them in her poems is very inspiring. I also found very interesting the debate that took place after the reading. We talked about poetry and ideology and the way it can change consciousness. I want to thank the organizers and all funding institutions involved for making this seminar possible and for giving us the chance to learn about such an incredible culture. The cultural approach is the better way to get to know others and also ourselves.   (Miguel Ángel Expósito)- I am so pleased to be a student of Pilar Villar! She has been organizing this seminar for 4 consecutive editions, and I never miss any of her events! One of the best things is to have the opportunity to meet artists studied in class and getting to know them personally. Colette Bryce is not only an amazing poet, but also a deeply humane, sensitive character. Thanks to EFACIS for making this possible!   (Maeve Evelyn Reilly)- Colette Bryce’s reading was definitely a highlight in the whole week’s International Seminar. Colette reads beautifully with a soft but strong tone and with great sensitivity. We had a question time afterwards in which she interpreted her poems with us. She treats poetry as a non-didactic experience where she wishes to be true to herself. It was wonderful to listen to her read and hear her own interpretations of the poems and compare them to our own. I must say that I consider the seminar a total success. It was a very enjoyable experience for all involved. I truly appreciated meeting such interesting and accomplished people. It was very informative and motivating. Pilar was a great facilitator and the direction, along with the coordination and organization committee, did a wonderful job. They succeeded in bringing Irish culture to Granada and in highlighting the ‘otherness’ in Irish society.   (Claudia Hernández Linares)- The IV International Seminar on Irish Studies was a celebration of Ireland’s culture, arts and history through different events that took place in the University of Granada during 5 consecutive days. Thanks to all institutions involved, particularly to EFACIS and the Irish Embassy in Spain, and of course, thanks to the main organizers (mainly Pilar Villar and Encarni Hidalgo) for making this possible. As a student, the lectures were a unique opportunity to benefit from the knowledge of professionals and artists and apply it to my own work in the future. It was especially interesting that the attendees were so approachable; the event successfully combined formal instances like literary readings and academic presentations with other more informal ones like the Celtic music concert or the question rounds.   (Gülcin Demir)- On the second day of the seminar, we had the great opportunity of listening to Colette Bryce and ask her some questions throughout the poetry reading session. She was so nice! What truly impressed me by heart was her accessibility and modesty; and also the way she talked about the political conflict in the North, her family experiences and other aspects of life such as loneliness. Thanks a lot to Pilar and to the support granted by EFACIS, without which this could not have been possible.   (Jonatan Dale Prieto)- This International Seminar was an amazing experienced, as it allowed us to hear and interact with some of the authors we studied in class. The organisation was very good, and I think that the seminar should be continued the following years, as it is certainly the highlight of the whole MA programme. Thanks a lot to the main organizers of the event and especially to Pilar Villar Argáiz for organizing it.   Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/51704690_10215197446184476_4432526096239427584_n.jpg Position: Signature Image:

Vona Groarke Description: I was delighted to take part in the 2017 Irish Itinerary, on the German / Dutch circuit. It is an honour to represent Irish writing on continental Europe, and to meet dedicated scholars and readers who take a passionate interest in contemporary Irish literature. The tour was nicely organised for me - with three venues in four days, a lot can go wrong, but the successful administration of the visit meant that it all ran smoothly and pleasantly. I had a lovely welcome at each of my three different venues, and good conversation with a variety of people about Irish writing and publishing. I would gladly recommend the Irish Itinerary to other writers, and would like to express my gratitude to EFACIS for the invitation, and for ensuring I had such a stimulating and enjoyable trip. Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/Vona%20Groarke%20photo_meitu_1.jpg Position: Poet Signature Image:

Anne Enright Description: I thought I would enjoy Scandanavia and I did; enjoyed, too, the spirit of the perenigration. It is sad to think that Irene and Britta are retiring from Irish studies, though there seems to be no stopping those chicks, I feel they will go and go. So, lots of hard work and good people, and snow - some sense of connection, too - these, to quote Julie Andrews, are a few of my favorite things. Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/Capture_1.JPG Position: novelist Signature Image:

Anna Szirák Description: “Tonight, my friends, there will be no translations,” said the poet Mac Lochlainn to all of us, thus giving the undertone to the evening. There would be no translations, and in a way, there were not any: Northern-Irish Mac Lochlainn recited his poetry in such a manner that could never be mirrored in any other language – something would always be lost. However, translation was already happening by the very act of announcing that it would not. The strange and alien-looking texts from the sheets of paper distributed became language and sound when spoken by the poet, and then that sound became music when accompanied by the Debrecen band Luan. Hearing a language spoken by few is always a wonder, but hearing it put into poetry was a revelation. There was a rhythm to it, something we, the audience had not known but still could not help but find familiar: the not-understanding of Irish became our own way of understanding. And so, it was a small Northern Ireland at Sikk klub that night; we were initiated into it by words, by sound, by music. Hearing actual translations of Mac Lochlainn’s works – because the command of banishing translations had only been partly true – could be described as sruth teangacha – a stream of tongues. That is what it was; tongues moving and sound escaping, giving way to a meaning that moved beyond language. Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/All%20participants%20in%20the%20evening.JPG Position: BA student, University of Debrecen Signature Image:

Ondrej Pilný Description: Mary McPartlan sang in Prague at the Marjánka dance hall on 20 November, accompanied by Aidan Brennan and Pádraic Keane to a dedicated and enthusiastic audience, aged 5 months to 60 years – even an impromptu jig was danced by some audience members during the final number. The concert was followed by a music session in a Scottish bar owned by the concert producer where our Irish guests were astonished to see that, as soon as they played the first few bars of the first tune, about 20 people whipped out their instruments and joined in. It turned out that some of the participants travelled over 200 km to be able to play with Mary, Aidan and Pádraic. The wave of energy was simply amazing, and needless to say, the session turned out to be long. In addition, Mary lectured to Charles University students on Irish women singers on 21 November. Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/Mary-McPartlan_0.jpg Position: Director of the Centre for Irish Studies in Prague Signature Image:

Mary Morrisy Description: Winter sun in Nijmegen, snow and ice in Brussels and Leuven, blizzards in Kortrijk but the weather paled into the background. What I'll remember is the brightness and curiosity of the students I met, who made me think about my work in a new way; Hedwig Schwall's irrepressible energy; the exquisite beauty of Leuven; the warm welcome at the Irish College and the famine soup recipe courtesy of Chris Cusack, one of my hosts at Radboud Univeristy Nijmegen. Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/dsc01746.jpg Position: poet Signature Image:

Medbh McGuckian Description: We flew into Prague. Petra, a postgraduate student, met us and took us by tram and metro to the town centre hotel. Justin and Ondrej took us for a lovely meal. The reading in the Shakespeare bookshop was well attended … there was a very thorough introduction and a reception hosted by the Embassy. Next morning we took the train to Vienna where Werner met us. We attended the Joyce songs and had dinner with Sinead and Darina which was excellent. The reading was more formal in a lecture hall lots of questions, good introduction by Werner, the Ambassador was represented. Next afternoon I did a poetry workshop with 12 students of various backgrounds … they were very eager and Julia organized it well. On Saturday we enjoyed the Austrian festival in the park. Train to Budapest on Sunday where Borsca met us …. We were very well looked after. Donald and Chilla were great hosts in Debrecen and our reading with interview was well attended. We saw a little of the park with the writers’ statues. Borsca drove to Pécs on Wednesday; the audience were lovely people mostly women. Final reading in a large lecture hall at Pázmány Péter University near Budapest. Beautiful campus. Many very erudite questions. I was intrigued by how interested students were in the political aspects of my work. Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/Medbh%20McGuckian%201_0.jpeg Position: poet Signature Image:

Marina Carr Description: I had a wonderful time last spring in Spain as part of the Irish Itinerary with EFACIS. I was hosted by the University of La Rioja in Logroño and the University of Granada. Dr Melania Terrazas Gallego gave me and my husband a lovely welcome in Logroño. The students were excellent and very interested in Irish Literature and were incredibly well read on contemporary Irish poetry, fiction and drama. We were also taken on a tour of Logroño and had a great final lunch and visit to a winery where many wines were tested and tasted. Granada was also fantastic. Here we were hosted by Dr Pilar Villar-Argaiz who took us on a tour of Granada and for several dinners and celebrations. Again the students were lively, engaged and very well informed on Irish Literature and Culture. Dr Pilar Villar-Argaiz and I conducted a reading and conversation which was live streamed and also recorded for the university’s archives. Overall it was an excellent tour with wonderful hospitality and lovely to see such interest in the work. Image: https://www.efacis.eu/sites/default/files/marina%20carr.jpg Position: playwright Signature Image: