University of Galway has dedicated a new ‘book bench’ on its campus in memory of Irish language poet Caitlín Maude, a graduate of the University.
The dedication event was attended by the late poet’s son, Caomhán Ó Luain, and his daughter Fiadh.
The fibreglass bench, shaped like an open book, was created by the Louisburgh Area Men’s Shed in Co. Mayo, with support from the University’s Buildings and Estates team.
It features the Irish language poem ‘Na Blátha’ by Caitlín Maude, along with an English translation by celebrated writer Nuala O’Connor.
Professor Rióna Ní Fhrighil, Head of the Discipline of Irish at University of Galway, said, “Caitlín Maude was rooted in tradition, but she wrote in her own voice, inspired by wider European literary styles.”
“She addresses contemporary social issues in her poetry that still resonate with students today. This strong Gaeltacht woman gave confidence to the Irish language poets that came after her and she continues to inspire young poets today.”
The bench, located in the Máirín de Valéra Garden on the north side of the University’s Quadrangle building, has also been added to the city-wide Galway Poetry Trail.
It is the fourth university location on the trail, joining poems by Terry McDonagh, Louis de Paor, and Michael D. Higgins.
Tom Kenny, co-founder of the Galway Poetry Trail, said, “There are now around 30 poems across the city on the Galway Poetry Trail.”
“It is wonderful to see Caitlín Maude’s poem on the university campus and I’m sure that thousands of people will read it here into the future.”
