Poguetry

by Shane MacGowan, John M. Hewitt (Illustrator), Steve Pyke (Illustrator)

A collection of 30 lyrics from songs by The Pogues, compiled by their lead singer and songwriter. The band have been successful throughout Europe and America, combining traditional Irish themes with rock music. The book is also a visual record of their 1988-1989 tour.

Genres: Music, Poetry, Ireland

96 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 1990

About the author

Shane Patrick Lysaght MacGowan was an Irish singer and songwriter. Many of his songs are influenced by Irish nationalism, Irish history, the experiences of the Irish diaspora, and London life in general. Born in Kent, England, to Irish parents, he was the lead singer and songwriter of Celtic punk band the Pogues. Wikipedia

Reviews

[Seanabhaile · Rating 5 out of 5]

The cadallac stood by the house
And the yanks they were within
And the tinker boys they hissed advice
Hot wire her with a pin
We turned and shook as we had a look
In the room where the dead man lay
And big Jim Dwyer made his last trip
To the shores where his fathers lay. .
.... That's poguetry !

[Garrett Riggs]

I've owned this book several times and it keeps getting "liberated" from my bookshelves. Many critics have called Shane MacGowan a poet and list him the realm of Bob Dylan or Van Morrison. When you see the lyrics in black and white, it is easy to see why. The illustrations and photos capture the Pogues at one of their most creative points.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Poguetry: The Lyrics of Shane Macgowan by Shane Macgowan (1990)

[Niall O'Brien · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you can get a copy, well worth the investment. Incredible photos by Pyke.