Literary links

The works and friendship of Irish writer Maurice Walsh and Scottish writer Neil M Gunn will be the focus of an event at the Listowel Writers' Week in Ireland today.

Scottish Culture Secretary Fiona Hyslop and Irish Culture Minister Jimmy Deenihan will both speak at the discussion about the work of the two authors, which will also be the focus of an event at the Edinburgh International Book Festival later this year.

Ms Hyslop said:

“There are deep and enduring cultural bonds between Scotland and Ireland. The longstanding friendship between the two noted authors Maurice Walsh and Neil M Gunn is testimony to this.

“They met when Maurice Walsh moved to Scotland in 1901 and remained friends after he returned to Ireland – as illustrated by the fact that 32 letters of correspondence between the authors are held in the National Library of Scotland.

“As well as their enduring friendship, their writing showed their shared pride in their homelands. The places and the people they knew and understood so well shines through their work.

“I am delighted that a light has been shone on the literary friendship which existed between Mr Gunn and Mr Walsh at the acclaimed Listowel Writers’ Week. But the story does not end there. It is great news that a reciprocal event will be staged at this year’s Edinburgh International Book Festival, taking place as Scotland welcomes the World.”

Minister Deenihan said:

“It is my pleasure to welcome Secretary Hyslop to Ireland for Listowel Writers' Week, so that we may celebrate and further develop our close relationship with Scotland and on our strong cultural connections.

“These connections are highlighted by the remarkable story of the friendship between Maurice Walsh and Neil Gunn, which is being celebrated in Listowel this evening. I am delighted that a reciprocal event will be staged at this year’s Edinburgh International Book Festival and I look forward to further collaboration with our Scottish neighbours in future.”

Nick Barley, Director of the Edinburgh International Book Festival, said

“The Edinburgh International Book Festival has long celebrated the literary links between Scotland and Ireland and we are looking forward to discussing the friendship between these two literary giants in Charlotte Square Gardens this summer.”