Turas Filíochta, A Poetic Journey (MH Press, 2024) Beautifully illustrated bilingual volumecelebrating Northern Irish poet PádraicFiacc. 36 poems with Irish translations by 17 prominent Gaeilgachpoets cover themes from landscape to birds, ancient tales to local histories(urban & rural) and, of course, the Troubles. "A voice for those muted bytrauma and fear," writes artist Michael McKernon in the Preface. For Fiacc'sgenius weaves darkness into gold. "I am the blackbird of the ruined nest whorings." His translators include filmmakers, musicians, teachers, museumkeepers and broadcasters from across Ireland. Reading the poems aloud in bothlanguages helped me savour the beauty of word and the power of message. Someare as gentle as a lullaby. "Silvering/Our interrupted sleep." "Agairgeadú/Suan atá suaite." Others are cold and cutting. "Weall/Go down the road now sharp and small/As razor blades …" "Sinneuilig/Ag dul aníos an bhóthar anois, géar agus beag/Mar lain rásúir … [parenthesesby the poet]. The notes at the end are a wonderful addition.  #poetry #Ireland #Irishpoets