James Joyce to read poem at Galway festival...
James Joyce with his wife Nora, left, and Mrs C Fredion, circa 1925. Picture: Hulton Archive/Getty Images
In a world-first, the voice of James Joyce will be heard once more, reading a specially crafted poem in honour of his muse and wife, Nora Barnacle.
This unprecedented event will take place at the Town Hall Theatre, Galway, on Friday, March 21, at 3.30pm, as part of the International Nora Barnacle Day celebrations at Grá Festival.
Through the power of artificial intelligence, Joyce’s voice has been cloned and will recite , a poem inspired by his life and legacy. This reading is set against the backdrop of an evocative line-drawing of Joyce by renowned surrealist artist Joe Boske, bringing a fusion of literature, technology, and visual art to life in a way never seen - or heard - before.
Margaret Nolan, Director of Grá Festival, explains: “Nora Barnacle was James Joyce’s muse, his great love, and an essential part of his literary legacy. It’s only fitting that on her birthday, we hear his voice once again, reading in her honour.”
This groundbreaking project was spearheaded by writer Michael Quinn and artist Joe Boske, who, in collaboration with Galway-based technologist Tom O’Connor, asked a bold question: Could James Joyce’s voice be resurrected to read new words for Nora’s birthday? The answer will be revealed in this unique performance where art, literature, and artificial intelligence converge.
Michael Quinn adds: “AI doesn’t have to be a threat - it can be a writer’s tool for an Augmented Imagination. This project is about reviving the past to enrich the present, honouring Nora Barnacle and the artistic legacy she helped inspire.”
Commenting on this AI rendition, poet Gerry Hanberry said: “Meet James Joyce himself as he trods his weary way towards Rathgar for his few pints after work."
James Harrold added: "In the Joyce universe, AI will remain the Agenbite of Inwit; but now is perhaps augmented by another AI, whereby Joyce's digital ghost delightfully encounters Quinn musings and Boske’s surreal art."
John Sviokla, AI thought leader, USA, commented: " is the perfect incantation to raise the spirit and voice of 'Sunny Jim', James Joyce. I wish I could witness this Lazarean miracle first-hand.”
This must-see event is a testament to how technology can reawaken literary greats and create new forms of artistic expression. It will be a historic moment at Gra festival, where James Joyce speaks again - this time, for love.
Admission is free.
