New book explores Yeats's links to Sligo
WB Yeats had strong links to Co Sligo.
A new book, entitled , is a captivating exploration of WB Yeats's connection to Sligo, beautifully crafted by Joseph M. Hassett and published by The Lilliput Press.
offers readers a visual and literary journey into the heart of WB Yeats’s poetic inspiration. This exquisite volume presents more than 20 full-colour images of book covers, poems, and artwork that reflect Sligo’s profound influence on Yeats and his family. With insightful commentary accompanying these images, readers are invited to experience Yeats’s poetry as he intended it to be received, delving into the essence of Sligo’s landscapes, legends, and memories that shaped his literary vision.
The book features images of the rare Cuala Press editions, works of art in themselves created by WB Yeats’s sister, Elizabeth Yeats, along with paintings and drawings by John Butler Yeats and Jack Yeats. The traces of these precious artifacts, many of which were donated to the Yeats Society Sligo allow readers to immerse themselves in Yeats’s world and gain a deeper understanding of his poetry’s significance.
Hassett’s interest in Yeats dates from his attendance at the Yeats Summer School in Sligo as an undergraduate and has continued through receipt of an MA and PhD in Anglo-Irish literature from University College Dublin. He has participated in and contributed to various Yeats-related projects, including restoration of Yeats ‘s tower Thoor Ballylee, where his play about Yeats and Joyce has been performed. He has curated exhibits about Yeats and Seamus Heaney at University College Dublin and is a Supporter of the Museum of Literature Ireland. President Michael D. Higgins presented him with the Presidential Award for Distinguished Service in 2022.
His previous publications include (Oxford University Press 2010), (Lilliput 2016), and (Lilliput 2020).
There has been generous praise for Joseph Hassett's latest publication. Respected historian Roy Foster said:
"Joseph Hassett’s subtle insights into Yeats’s imagination and life are once more underlined by this beautiful little book, poignantly showing how many 'Images that yet / Fresh images beget' derive from Sligo and return there. A treasure."
Professor of Poetry Paul Meehan said: "This book is a Cabinet of Curiosities. Open it and be transported to the creative heart of the Yeats family and to the soul of Sligo, the two commingled to powerful and bountiful effect."
Broadcaster Theo Dorgan said: "With his customary lucid grace and style, Hassett pilots us with ease and informed authority through the deep channel that runs between the Sligo that made Yeats, and the Sligo that Yeats made. offers a treasure trove of insights and discoveries."
The book retails at a very reasonable €9.95.
